Description
Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake is a delightful, comforting dish that layers tender pasta with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta cheese, all baked to golden perfection. This hearty recipe is ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, promising to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, eggs, half of the mozzarella, sautéed spinach, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Layer half of the marinara sauce in the baking dish followed by half of the cooked pasta. Spread the cheese mixture over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta and top with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg