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–+ servings
Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake Ready in 30 Minutes

This Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake is a creamy, comforting dish, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Ziti Pasta Can substitute with penne or macaroni.
For the Spinach Mixture
  • 10 ounces Frozen Chopped Spinach Fresh spinach can be used if well-drained.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Any variety works well.
For the Cheesy Topping
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Be generous for an extra cheesy finish.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Use grated for easy application.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Tomato Passata Crushed tomatoes can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic packs the most flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Mixed Herbs Oregano, basil, or thyme are great substitutes.
  • ½ teaspoon Chili Flakes Adjust to your taste preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Boosts overall flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust for personal preference.
For the Finishing Touch
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Use a good quality to elevate flavor.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Greased Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Gather all your ingredients and equipment.
  2. Mix together tomato passata, olive oil, minced garlic, herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add ziti pasta, and cook according to package instructions minus 1 minute. Drain.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, parmesan, drained spinach, salt, and pepper, stir until smooth.
  5. Gently fold the cooked pasta into the ricotta mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  6. Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture and sprinkle mozzarella on top.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until golden.
  8. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving, optionally garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. The unbaked dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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