Creamy Spinach Ziti (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
12 oz ziti pasta
02 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 small onion, chopped
05 -
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
06 -
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
07 -
1 teaspoon dried basil
08 -
1 teaspoon dried oregano
09 -
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
10 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Cheese Mixture
11 -
1 cup ricotta cheese
12 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
13 -
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 -
1 egg
15 -
½ cup heavy cream (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
02 -
Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
03 -
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
04 -
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ½ cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and heavy cream (if using), mixing until smooth.
05 -
Combine the cooked ziti with the spinach marinara sauce in a large bowl. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop ricotta mixture over the pasta, then top with the remaining pasta. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
06 -
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra protein, add cooked chicken or sausage.
02 -
You can swap spinach for kale or other leafy greens.
03 -
For a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese and substitute the egg with a flax egg or tofu-based mixture.