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Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake for Cozy Nights

Delight in this comforting Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake, a budget-friendly dish perfect for cozy family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Bake
  • 8 ounces Pasta (penne or rigatoni) Choose for ideal texture to hold sauce.
  • 10 ounces Spinach (fresh or frozen) If using frozen, ensure it's thawed and well-drained.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Use whole milk for creaminess.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese Low-moisture for a gooey top layer.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional but recommended for extra depth.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Essential for moisture and flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced for maximum flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Season to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Season to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Optional for enhanced savory notes.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil for 1 minute, then add spinach and cook until wilted (2-3 minutes).
  4. In a mixing bowl, blend ricotta, half of mozzarella, half of Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Fold in spinach mixture.
  5. Spread half of marinara sauce in baking dish, layer with half the pasta and ricotta mixture, then repeat. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Well-dried spinach prevents excess moisture. Mix gently to avoid mushiness. Experiment with cheese substitutes for different flavors.

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