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
Scale
- 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.