Looking for a comforting Italian-inspired dish to cozy up your evening at home? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Baked Pasta with Spinach and Ricotta. This dish offers a perfect combination of flavors – the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, the freshness of spinach, and the heartiness of baked pasta. It’s a wonderful choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Baked Pasta With Spinach And Ricotta
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
– 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and toss gently until the pasta is well coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a touch of extra freshness.
This Baked Pasta with Spinach and Ricotta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The layers of flavors from the creamy ricotta, zesty tomatoes, and earthy spinach come together beautifully in every bite. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a great go-to meal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends at home.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish offers a satisfying and flavorful option that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Italian-inspired recipe that brings a touch of Mediterranean flair to your table.
