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Creamy ricotta spinach pasta bake with melted cheese and fresh ingredients

Ricotta & Spinach Pasta Bake

A delightful amalgamation of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and tender pasta, this Ricotta & Spinach Pasta Bake offers a warm, comforting dish perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 475
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Greens
  • 1 lb Rigatoni (or other pasta like Ziti or Penne) Provides a sturdy base for the bake.
  • 6 oz fresh baby spinach leaves Adds a fresh, earthy taste and a pop of color.
Cheese Mixture
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese (full fat) Essential for a luscious texture.
  • 1 cup cottage cheese Enhances protein content.
  • 1 large egg (lightly beaten) Helps bind the ingredients.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) Brings an irresistible essence.
  • 1 dash nutmeg Adds warmth and depth.
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) For a hint of heat.
  • 1 teaspoon salt To season well.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper Adds a mild kick.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves (chopped) Brings freshness.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves (chopped) Complementary fragrant notes.
  • 1 cup fresh grated Parmesan Adds a nutty, complex flavor.
  • 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese (divided) Melts into perfection.
Sauce
  • 2 ½ to 3 cups marinara sauce Ties everything together.

Method
 

Prepping the Oven and Pasta
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with vegetable cooking spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta al dente according to package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the warm pot.
  3. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pasta and gently toss to combine. Set this aside.
Cheese Mixture
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, nutmeg, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of Mozzarella. Fold gently until blended.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add more than half of the cheese mixture to the pasta and spinach mixture. Mix gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
  2. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
    Now, transfer the pasta and spinach mixture into the pan. Top with dollops of the remaining cheese mixture.
Baking
  1. Spread the remaining marinara sauce over the mixture and lightly cover the pan with foil. Bake for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining Mozzarella on top, and continue baking uncovered for 20-25 more minutes.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a heartier meal, mix in cooked chicken, ground beef, or Italian sausage. This dish can be assembled a day in advance and baked before serving.