Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake
A delicious and comforting Italian-inspired pasta bake featuring creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella cheese.
Equipment
- 1 large baking dish
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Assembling
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Add half of the cooked pasta over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese, and another layer of marinara sauce.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Top with Parmesan cheese.
Baking
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving
- Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh mozzarella for better melting. Let the bake rest before serving for cleaner slices.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta if needed. Low-fat ricotta and mozzarella can be used for a lighter version.
How to Serve: Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the bake a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta if needed. Low-fat ricotta and mozzarella can be used for a lighter version.
How to Serve: Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the bake a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.