Indulge in a delicious spinach & ricotta pasta bake that combines creamy ricotta cheese, nutritious spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta for a comforting dish. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or as a hearty meal for guests. The crispy top layer adds a delightful texture, making every bite satisfying. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a must-try dish for pasta lovers!
Ingredients
– 300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
– 200g fresh spinach
– 250g ricotta cheese
– 100g grated mozzarella cheese
– 50g grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– A pinch of nutmeg
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 400 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This is based on an average adult serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add onion, and sauté until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg; mix well.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
9. Top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain excess water. For a vegan option, use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella alternatives.
Serving and Pairings
This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light red wine can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. This dish can be frozen before baking; just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
– Not squeezing excess water from spinach can make the dish watery.
– Skipping the nutmeg can reduce flavor depth.
– Using low-fat cheese can affect creaminess.
– Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
– For added flavor, include herbs like basil or oregano.
– Experiment with different cheeses for varied taste.
– Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
– Top with breadcrumbs for added crunch.
FAQs
Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?
Dried spinach can be used, but it should be rehydrated and drained well before adding to the dish to avoid excess moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this pasta bake is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken or sausage can be added for extra protein and flavor.
How long does it take to bake?
The bake typically takes about 25-30 minutes at 180°C (350°F) or until the top is golden brown.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni or farfalle.
Conclusion
This spinach & ricotta pasta bake is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures and rich flavors, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting meal with loved ones, and savor the deliciousness!
Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 300 g pasta penne or fusilli
- 200 g fresh spinach
- 250 g ricotta cheese
- 100 g grated mozzarella cheese
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add onion, and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.