Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Baked Ziti with Spinach

Baked Ziti with Spinach

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Baked Ziti with Spinach is a comforting and hearty pasta dish. It features ziti pasta, a rich tomato sauce, spinach, and a blend of cheeses, all baked until bubbly and golden.

  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 pound shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Stir the fresh spinach into the sauce until wilted.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with about 3 cups of the tomato and spinach sauce.
  8. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the ricotta cheese mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
  9. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then the rest of the ricotta cheese mixture, and finally the remaining mozzarella cheese. Pour any remaining sauce over the top.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is hot. If desired, you can broil for the last few minutes to get a golden-brown crust.
  11. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can add cooked ground beef or lamb to the sauce.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • This dish freezes well. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Find it online: https://recipesuniverse.com/baked-ziti-with-spinach-recipe/