Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake

Introduction

Craving a comforting and delicious Italian classic? Look no further than this Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake! This dish is a weeknight winner, combining the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, the nutritional power of spinach, and the satisfying heartiness of pasta. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a make-ahead meal.

Main Sections

Why This Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake Is the Best

• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry!
• Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious and satisfying meat-free option.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs (more on that later!).
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients for a truly delectable Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake:

• Pasta: We recommend using penne, rigatoni, or shells – any pasta shape that holds sauce well.
• Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach both work. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.
• Ricotta Cheese: Full-fat ricotta is best for maximum creaminess, but part-skim can also be used.
• Eggs: To bind the ricotta mixture and provide structure.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a nutty and savory flavor. A generous grating is key!
• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a melty and gooey topping.
• Tomato Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred or homemade tomato sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.
• Onion: Diced onion provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan with olive oil and garlic until wilted. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out excess water.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked spinach, sautéed onion and garlic, and cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture. Stir well to combine.
6. Assemble the Bake: Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Add the pasta mixture, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pasta bake is heated through.
8. Let It Rest: Let the pasta bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the bake to set slightly.

Tips & Variations

• Add Protein: Ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken can be added for extra protein.
• Use Different Cheese: Try adding provolone, fontina, or asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Add Vegetables: Other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to the pasta bake.

Serving Suggestions

This Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A simple green salad
• Garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables

Conclusion

This Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake is a classic for a reason – it’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. With its customizable nature and simple ingredients, you can create a dish that your family will love. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal!