The aroma of baked ziti wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day, making it impossible to resist. Imagine layers of gooey cheese mingling with hearty pasta and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce that dances on your taste buds. This Irresistible Baked Ziti with Spinach Recipe to Savor is not just a dish; it’s an experience, one that calls for family gatherings or cozy evenings spent in your favorite sweatpants. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. We gathered around the table, and as I pulled the steaming tray from the oven, their eyes lit up. It was a scene straight out of a rom-com, complete with laughter and delightful banter. The blend of flavors and textures created such joy that I knew this recipe would become a staple in our lives. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging after a long week, this baked ziti will bring everyone together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked ziti is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners hassle-free
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, perfect for pasta lovers
- Its vibrant layers make for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to different dietary needs or ingredient availability
There was that time my cousin declared this baked ziti was “life-changing,” which made me laugh and feel proud at the same time.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner ideas recipe.
- Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for perfect cheese-to-sauce ratio; penne works too if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Fresh Spinach: Use tender baby spinach for its mild flavor; frozen spinach can work in a pinch if thawed well.
- Marinara Sauce: Opt for your favorite jarred sauce or homemade; it’s the heart of this dish.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; look for whole milk varieties for extra creaminess.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The gooier, the better! A blend of mozzarella and provolone gives great flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan enhances the overall flavor profile; pre-grated can be used if necessary.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings depth; roast them first for sweeter notes if desired.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté veggies and enhances flavors; extra virgin is always a good choice.
- Italian Seasoning: A sprinkle adds warmth; make your own mix with oregano, basil, and thyme for extra flair.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors in your dish; don’t skimp!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your favorite baking dish while you’re at it because you’ll want something deep to hold all that deliciousness.
Cook the Ziti Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot before adding ziti. Cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes should do.
Sauté Spinach and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in minced garlic until fragrant before adding fresh spinach until wilted—this should take about 3 minutes.
Create Your Cheesy Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and parmesan along with Italian seasoning. Mix well until creamy and smooth.
Layer Your Dish Like a Pro: Start with marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish then add half of the cooked ziti followed by half of the cheese mixture and some sautéed spinach. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover your dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes before removing foil and baking an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoy every cheesy bite of this Irresistible Baked Ziti with Spinach Recipe to Savor!
You Must Know
- This irresistible baked ziti with spinach recipe combines vibrant flavors and comforting textures
- The cheesy goodness is just the beginning; you can easily adapt it for picky eaters or those seeking extra nutrition
- Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while cooking pasta al dente, then prepare the sauce simultaneously to save time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap spinach for kale or add Italian sausage for an extra flavor punch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamy texture, add ricotta cheese before baking
- Ensure you season every layer to enhance flavor
- Don’t rush the baking process; let it bubble and brown for that perfect finish
Sharing my first experience with baked ziti brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone would devour it, leaving only crumbs behind.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well and will still hold up beautifully in the dish.
What’s the best way to freeze baked ziti?
Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.
How long does baked ziti last in the fridge?
It can last up to five days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Irresistible Baked Ziti with Spinach
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Irresistible Baked Ziti with Spinach. Layers of gooey cheese, tender pasta, and fresh spinach are enveloped in rich marinara sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This easy-to-make recipe will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and bring everyone together around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook ziti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 3 minutes).
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and parmesan along with Italian seasoning; mix until smooth.
- In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce at the bottom, then half of the ziti, half of the cheese mixture, and some sautéed spinach. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg