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Creamy Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340g) penne or rigatoni pasta 🍝
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
  • 1 onion, chopped 🧅
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
  • 10 oz (280g) fresh spinach, chopped 🥬
  • 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese 🧀
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese 🧀
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten 🥚
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
  • Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional) 🍅

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella, half the Parmesan, the beaten egg, dried oregano, salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
  7. Fold the drained pasta and wilted spinach into the ricotta mixture, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Spoon the marinara over the top if using, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly.
  9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Serve warm with extra marinara or a simple green salad on the side.