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Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake (3)

Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake

This creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake combines tender penne with rich cheeses, fresh spinach, and marinara sauce for ultimate comfort food perfection.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
For the Ricotta Mixture:
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Equipment

  • Large 8-quart pot
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • colander

Method
 

  1. Heat your oven to 375°F and grease your baking dish with spray or olive oil.
  2. Boil a big pot of salty water and cook penne pasta for 8-10 minutes until tender.
  3. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside while you get everything else ready.
  4. Heat olive oil in a pan and cook fresh spinach for 3-4 minutes until it wilts down.
  5. Press the cooked spinach hard with a spoon or paper towels to get the water out.
  6. Mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a big bowl until smooth.
  7. Add the pasta, spinach, and marinara sauce to the ricotta and stir really well.
  8. Pour everything into your greased dish and spread it out so it's nice and even.
  9. Top with mozzarella cheese and the rest of the Parmesan for a golden cheesy crust.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts and turns light golden brown on top.
  11. Take it out and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before you cut and serve it.

Notes

  • Full-fat ricotta makes this way creamier than the low-fat kind. Worth it!
  • Really squeeze that spinach dry, or your bake will be too watery.
  • Cover with foil if the cheese gets too brown before it's done baking.
  • Leftovers taste amazing! Just heat them up in the microwave or oven. ENJOY!!!
  • Add Italian seasoning or fresh basil if you want extra flavor and yummy herbs.