Baked Ziti with Spinach is a cozy, comforting dish that fills your home with the inviting aroma of melting cheese and savory marinara. Imagine twirling forkfuls of cheesy goodness topped with vibrant green spinach, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your palate. For more inspiration, check out this snacks and appetizers recipe.
This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a laid-back dinner party with friends. Trust me; the excitement in the room when you pull this beauty from the oven is palpable. Everyone will be clamoring for seconds, and you’ll bask in the glory of your culinary triumph. For more inspiration, check out this hearty dinner ideas recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Ziti with Spinach is easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal
- The delightful combination of flavors creates a satisfying bite that everyone will love
- It looks stunning when plated, bringing color and vibrancy to your dining table
- Versatile enough for vegetarians yet hearty enough to please meat-lovers, it’s great for any occasion
A memorable moment for me was when my cousin tried this recipe for the first time and exclaimed it was “better than grandma’s”!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ziti Pasta: Use ziti or penne; both hold sauce beautifully and provide the perfect bite.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach works best; its tender leaves wilt perfectly into the sauce.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade; either adds rich flavor to this dish.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; don’t skimp on it, as it makes everything more indulgent.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that gooey, stretchy quality we all love in baked pasta dishes.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses beautifully.
Garlic Powder: A pinch enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and adding depth to your flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other ingredients in this delightful meal.
Basil (optional): Fresh or dried basil can add an aromatic touch if you want an extra layer of flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while gathering your ingredients. A warm start sets up deliciousness!
Cook the Pasta: Boil ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, marveling at their tubular perfection.
Sauté Spinach**: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and toss in fresh spinach until just wilted—about 3-4 minutes. The vibrant green color will brighten your kitchen!
Mix Cheeses**: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and smooth—this mixture should be as comforting as a hug!
Combine Ingredients**: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with marinara sauce and sautéed spinach. Fold in cheesy goodness gently so everything is coated but not mushy—a delicate dance of flavors.
Layer & Bake**: In a baking dish, layer half the pasta mixture first, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese mixture. Top with remaining pasta before sprinkling mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
With each step completed, I promise you’ll find yourself humming with delight as that cheesy aroma fills your home! Enjoy every moment as you anticipate digging into this Baked Ziti with Spinach masterpiece!
You Must Know
- Baked Ziti with Spinach is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate
- The cheesy goodness combined with vibrant spinach makes it visually appealing and nutritious
- Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta while sautéing garlic and spinach in olive oil. Assemble layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap spinach with kale or add Italian sausage for more flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella to make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve creamy melted cheese, cover the dish with foil during baking
- Always taste your sauce before layering; adding salt can elevate flavors significantly
- Let the baked ziti sit for 10 minutes before serving; this helps it set beautifully
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter mingled with the aroma of baked ziti wafting through the house, making every bite feel like home.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta for Baked Ziti with Spinach?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and flavor without sacrificing texture.
How long does it take to bake Baked Ziti with Spinach?
Bake at 375°F for approximately 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Can I freeze leftovers of Baked Ziti with Spinach?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container for up to three months.
Baked Ziti with Spinach
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Baked Ziti with Spinach is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender pasta, rich marinara, and creamy cheeses, all topped with vibrant spinach. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and guarantees seconds. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing!
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried basil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the spinach until wilted (about 3-4 minutes).
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and sautéed spinach; gently fold in the ricotta mixture.
- Layer half of the pasta mixture in a baking dish, add dollops of the remaining ricotta mix, then top with the rest of the pasta and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 44mg
Keywords: Consider substituting spinach with kale for a different flavor profile. Add Italian sausage or ground turkey for extra heartiness. Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
