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In the world of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartwarming embrace of baked ziti. This creamy spinach and ricotta baked ziti recipe combines the richness of ricotta, the freshness of spinach, and the gooey goodness of melted cheese, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its layers of flavor and textures, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also provides a hearty dose of nutrients. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this delightful baked ziti that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Easy Baked Ziti with Spinach and Ricotta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this creamy spinach and ricotta baked ziti! Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe combines rich ricotta, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella for a satisfying meal. With every layer offering flavor and nutrition, it's a dish that's sure to impress. Learn how to craft this delightful baked ziti, packed with wholesome ingredients and hearty textures, making it a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

15 oz ricotta cheese

1 large egg

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add a generous amount of salt. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated into a creamy filling.

        Mix the Marinara Sauce: In a separate large bowl, combine the marinara sauce with one cup (half) of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until well blended and set aside.

          Combine Ingredients: Pour the cooked ziti into the bowl with the marinara sauce mixture. Gently stir until the pasta is fully coated. Next, fold in the ricotta and spinach mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

            Assemble the Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray. Spoon half of the ziti mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Top with half of the remaining mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. Layer the rest of the ziti mixture on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

              Bake: Cover your assembled dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set. If you like, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 45 mins | 6 servings