Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake

Looking for a comforting and nutritious dinner option? Try this Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake! It's a delightful blend of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and pasta, all baked to perfection. This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for families. Perfect for meal prep or gatherings, it offers delicious leftovers that taste just as great the next day. Discover how simple it is to create this delicious pasta bake!

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Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or rigatoni works best)

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

10 oz (280 g) fresh spinach, washed and chopped

15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Mix Cheese Blend: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and the sautéed spinach mixture. Stir well to combine.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In the bowl with the cheese mixture, add the cooked pasta and half of the marinara sauce. Mix everything until the pasta is well coated.

Layer the Bake: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread the pasta mixture evenly. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake it Up: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings