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Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake

Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite

This 30-Minute Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake combines creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and gooey mozzarella for a delightful vegetarian dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Ziti Pasta Can substitute with penne or macaroni.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Tomato Passata Crushed tomatoes work as a substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh garlic preferred; garlic powder can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Mixed Herbs Feel free to use fresh herbs.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Flakes Adjust to taste for desired heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity from tomatoes.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Any type works beautifully.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Extra mozzarella can be added for a cheesier finish.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated parmesan is easiest for topping.
For the Spinach
  • 10 ounces Frozen Chopped Spinach Fresh spinach can be used if drained well.
Seasoning and Cooking Essentials
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil Drizzle thoughtfully.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking dish
  • mason jar or bowl for sauce

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. In a mason jar or bowl, combine the tomato passata, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian mixed herbs, and chili flakes. Mix well.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions, reducing the time by one minute. Reserve pasta water, then drain.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, drained spinach, and salt and pepper. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
  5. Fold in the cooked ziti pasta until well-coated, then transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
  6. Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the pasta mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is golden brown.
  8. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Make sure to properly drain the spinach to avoid excess moisture. The ziti should be cooked one minute less than package instructions for a better bake texture.

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