Baked Ziti with Spinach Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting yet fresh twist on classic Italian favorites, this Baked Ziti with Spinach Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. It’s a vibrant, cheesy, and wholesome casserole that pairs tender al dente ziti pasta with bright, nutrient-packed baby spinach, all smothered in savory marinara and a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. This dish effortlessly combines hearty flavors and textures, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding family or friends. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, yet special enough to make every bite feel like a little celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this dish. Each item plays a key role—from the ziti pasta that provides the perfect bite, to the fresh spinach adding vibrant color and nutrition, down to the cheeses that create that irresistible creamy, melty texture. Here’s what you’ll want on hand to make this recipe shine.

• Ziti pasta (16 ounces): This tubular pasta holds onto sauce beautifully and bakes wonderfully in casseroles.
• Baby spinach (4 cups): Fresh and tender, baby spinach adds a pop of green and sneaks in some healthy greens without overpowering the dish.
• Marinara sauce (24 ounces): Choose a flavorful, quality sauce to infuse the entire dish with rich tomato goodness.
• Ricotta cheese (15 ounces): Adds a creamy, slightly sweet touch and balances the tangy marinara.
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups, divided): Melts to a perfect gooey layer that adds classic Italian comfort to the recipe.
• Grated parmesan cheese (½ cup): Provides a salty, nutty finish and elevates the casserole’s flavor profile.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming.
• Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Just a hint to gently spice things up.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend of herbs like oregano and basil that complements the tomato base perfectly.

How to Make Baked Ziti with Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉ so it’s ready when your ziti mixture is assembled. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the ziti. Cook the pasta just until al dente, which means it still has a slight firmness in the center—this prevents it from becoming mushy during baking. Once cooked, drain well to avoid excess water muddying the dish.

Step 2: Combine ziti, spinach, and marinara sauce

In a large bowl, or even the pot you used for the pasta, gently toss the drained ziti with the baby spinach and marinara sauce until everything is evenly coated. The warmth from the pasta will slightly wilt the spinach, maintaining its bright color and fresh flavor. This saucy, spinach-studded pasta base is the heart of your baked ziti.

Step 3: Prepare the ricotta cheese mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. This creamy cheese blend brings a luscious layer of richness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy tomato sauce and tender pasta.

Step 4: Layer the casserole

Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the ziti and spinach mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, spoon the entire ricotta mixture on top, spreading it out smoothly. Then, layer the remaining ziti mixture over the cheese, finishing with a generous sprinkle of the remaining mozzarella on top. These layers create a perfect interplay of textures and flavors once baked.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Bake the casserole uncovered for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. This baking step melds all the components together, giving you a glorious, comforting dish that’s full of flavor and inviting aromas.

How to Serve Baked Ziti with Spinach Recipe

Garnishes

When serving your baked ziti, a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a fresh, herbal brightness that livens up each bite. If you like a subtle kick, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes works beautifully to balance the creamy richness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in tangy vinaigrettes to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf are perfect companions to soak up any extra sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus enhance the wholesome feel of your dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make your presentation unique, consider baking your Baked Ziti with Spinach Recipe in individual ramekins for charming personal servings. Layer in a mason jar to serve at potlucks or picnic-style meals. Or top each serving with a cracked fresh egg and broil briefly for a luxe twist everyone will remember!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This baked ziti keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and moisture. When ready to enjoy again, the casserole’s flavors deepen even more—a truly comforting second meal.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole by tightly wrapping it with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or using a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to ensure even cooking and preserve the texture of the spinach and pasta.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered loosely to avoid drying out, or warm the entire dish in a 350℉ oven until hot and bubbling again. If desired, add a little extra mozzarella on top before reheating for that fresh-baked cheesy charm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much excess water as possible to avoid making the casserole watery. Fresh baby spinach will always give you that lovely vibrant color and a subtle fresh flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the ricotta and mozzarella for plant-based cheese alternatives and use a vegan marinara sauce. You can find vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor.

What can I add to make the baked ziti meaty?

For a hearty protein boost, stir in cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even cannellini beans before layering. This adds extra savory depth and makes the dish even more filling.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and a perfect bubbly finish.

How do I know when the baked ziti is done?

Look for melted, golden cheese on top and bubbling sauce around the edges of the dish. The internal temperature should be steaming hot throughout to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Ziti with Spinach Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough to bring out whenever you want to impress without stress. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, bringing cheesy comfort and a pop of green goodness to your table again and again. Don’t wait to make this delightful meal part of your cooking routine—your family and friends will thank you!

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