Slow Cooker Baked Penne with Ricotta, Mozzarella & Basil – Easy Comfort Pasta Recipe

Slow Cooker Baked Penne with Ricotta, Mozzarella & Basil – Easy Comfort Pasta Recipe

Meta Description:
Make the ultimate comfort food with this slow cooker baked penne recipe! Loaded with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil, it’s an easy, hands-off dinner your family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 2 (25 oz) jars of marinara pasta sauce
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 1 pound uncooked penne pasta
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup freshly chopped basil
• 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the ricotta mixture:
   In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, eggs, and chopped basil until smooth and creamy. This adds richness and a burst of fresh flavor to every bite.
2. Mix the pasta sauces:
   Combine the two jars of pasta sauce with the tomato sauce in a large bowl. This creates a flavorful, herby base that keeps the pasta moist while cooking.
3. Grease the slow cooker:
   Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking.
4. Layer the pasta casserole:
   • Pour 2 1/3 cups of sauce mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker.
   • Add 1/3 of the uncooked penne.
   • Dot half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta.
   • Sprinkle 1 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.
   • Repeat: Add another 2 1/3 cups of sauce, 1/3 of the penne, remaining ricotta, and 1 cup Parmesan.
   • Finish with the last 1/3 of penne and the remaining 2 1/3 cups of sauce.
5. Cook the pasta:
   Cover and cook on high for 2–3 hours, or until pasta is al dente. (Tip: 2 1/2 hours works perfectly for most slow cookers.)
6. Add mozzarella:
   In the last few minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top and allow it to melt for a gooey, cheesy finish.
7. Serve and enjoy:
   Serve warm, optionally topped with red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, alongside garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired meal.

Benefits & Tips

• Hands-off cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work while you handle other tasks.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make ahead for busy weeknights or freezer-friendly portions.
• Cheesy comfort: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan delivers creamy, indulgent flavor.
• Herb boost: Fresh basil adds antioxidants and bright, fresh flavor.
• Customizable: Swap penne for rigatoni or rotini, or add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.