Description
A delicious and comforting Spinach and Ricotta Pasta Bake that is perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Add the cooked pasta and sautéed spinach mixture to the cheese mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the pasta and cheese mixture over the sauce, then top with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added protein, mix in cooked chicken or Italian sausage to the pasta mixture.
- Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach for a different flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg