Cheesy Florentine Bake
Looking for a cozy and delicious recipe to warm up your home on a chilly evening? This Cheesy Florentine Bake is the perfect comfort food dish that will satisfy both your cravings and your soul. A delightful blend of spinach, cheese, and flavorful seasonings, this hearty casserole is easy to make and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into creating this scrumptious dish that will surely fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– 1 package (16 ounces) of lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine the flavors.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until well combined. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.
5. Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
6. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top of the cheese mixture, cutting if necessary to fit the dish.
7. Spoon half of the spinach mixture evenly over the noodles.
8. Add another layer of the cheese mixture, using half of what remains.
9. Add another layer of lasagna noodles, then layer the remaining spinach mixture over it.
10. Top with the final layer of lasagna noodles and cover the top with the remaining cheese mixture.
11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Let the Cheesy Florentine Bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, if desired.
Delicious, creamy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this Cheesy Florentine Bake is a delightful dish that will surely impress your loved ones. Whether you’re preparing a comforting weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this casserole is a versatile option that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Enjoy the process of creating this tasty bake, and savor each bite of this cheesy, spinach-infused delight.
