Looking for a comforting pasta dish that combines the goodness of spinach with creamy cheese? This cheesy spinach ziti bake is the perfect answer! It’s a delightful option for family dinners or gatherings, packing a flavorful punch that everyone will love.
Imagine tender ziti pasta enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, layered with vibrant spinach and gooey cheese. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal that warms the heart and fills the belly.
Whether you’re trying to sneak in some greens or simply craving a hearty pasta dish, this spinach ziti bake is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare, making it a wonderful choice for busy weeknights.
Introducing the Cheesy Spinach Ziti Bake
This dish brings together the comforting qualities of pasta with the nutritious benefits of spinach, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings.
Layered with creamy cheese and enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, it offers a delightful combination of flavors sure to please everyone at the table.
Imagine savoring tender ziti pasta wrapped in a vibrant sauce, with gooey cheese melting to perfection on top. The presentation is just as inviting as the taste, with fresh basil leaves completing the look.
Flavorful Layers of Goodness
The ziti bake presents a beautifully balanced dish that combines various textures and tastes. Al dente pasta provides the foundation, while fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition.
The savory tomato sauce enhances the overall flavor, creating a comforting blend that you can indulge in any day of the week.
With melted cheese on top, the dish transforms into a gooey delight. The golden bubbles of cheese contrast wonderfully with the vibrant greens and rich reds, making it visually appealing and appetizing.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Before starting the cooking process, gathering all the necessary ingredients is key to a smooth experience.
You’ll need ziti pasta, fresh spinach, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan, along with some essential seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder.
Having everything ready will allow you to focus on mixing and layering the ingredients, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.
Cooking and Baking Process
The preparation begins with cooking the ziti until it reaches the perfect al dente texture.
Once drained and cooled, combine it with the chopped spinach, marinara sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that every piece of pasta is coated in deliciousness.
As you assemble the dish in a greased baking dish, don’t forget to layer on the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil during the initial baking period to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Once your ziti bake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
The aroma wafting through the kitchen will surely entice everyone to the table. Garnish with fresh basil for an added touch of flavor and beauty.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal that everyone will love sharing.
Nutritional Benefits
This cheesy spinach ziti bake is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients.
With servings providing a healthy dose of protein and essential vitamins, it is a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing taste.
At approximately 350 calories per serving, this dish offers a satisfying meal without overwhelming your daily calorie count, making it a balanced choice for any occasion.
Delicious Spinach Ziti Bake Recipe
This cheesy spinach ziti bake features al dente pasta mixed with fresh spinach, a savory tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. The combination of flavors creates a hearty and satisfying dish that is both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, chopped spinach, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 32g