Recipe For Pasta And Spinach Casserole
If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s both hearty and flavorful, look no further than our delectable Pasta and Spinach Casserole recipe. This dish is the epitome of comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into creating this mouthwatering dish!
Recipe For Pasta and Spinach Casserole
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
4. Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they are tender and golden brown.
5. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
This Pasta and Spinach Casserole is a complete meal in itself, combining the richness of cheese with the goodness of spinach and mushrooms. The creamy texture of the ricotta cheese melds perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite proteins like shredded chicken or crumbled sausage.
Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to impress your family and friends. The best part is that it can be easily prepared ahead of time and baked when needed, making it a convenient choice for busy days. So, whip up a batch of this delicious Pasta and Spinach Casserole and enjoy a cozy and satisfying meal that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!