Baked Ziti with Spinach: A Comforting and Wholesome Dish

Baked ziti with spinach is a delicious and hearty Italian-American classic that brings together tender pasta, creamy cheese, tangy marinara sauce, and nutritious spinach. It's perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for a busy weeknight dinner. This dish strikes the perfect balance of comfort food indulgence and a touch of green goodness.

Why Spinach?

Adding spinach to baked ziti not only enhances its nutritional value but also introduces a pop of color and a mild, earthy flavor. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants, making it a great addition to this rich and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

1 pound ziti or penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup fresh spinach (chopped or wilted)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 large egg

Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Make the Sauce: 

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: 

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy layer.

4. Assemble the Baked Ziti: 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce to coat the bottom.

Layer half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta-spinach mixture, half of the marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with mozzarella cheese on top.

5. Bake:

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Serve:

Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Success

Spinach Prep: Use fresh spinach for a mild flavor or substitute frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) for convenience.

Customizations: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Freezing: Baked ziti freezes well! Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your baked ziti with a simple green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon makes a lovely accompaniment.

Why You'll Love It

Baked ziti with spinach is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of comfort food with a boost of nutrients from the spinach. The dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for gatherings or meal prepping. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a household favorite!