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Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Main Course / Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake is the ultimate vegetarian comfort food! With tender pasta, creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella, all baked to golden perfection, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday suppers.


Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rigatoni)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 10 oz (280g) fresh spinach, chopped

  • 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg or crushed red pepper flakes


Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Sauté the Veggies:
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and spinach; cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
    In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg, half the mozzarella, half the Parmesan, and optional nutmeg. Stir in the cooked spinach mixture.

  4. Combine and Assemble:
    Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta-spinach mixture and toss to combine. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

  5. Bake:
    Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

  6. Serve:
    Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad.


Notes

  • You can use frozen spinach (thawed and drained) instead of fresh.

  • Add a layer of marinara sauce for a more lasagna-like version.

  • Great for meal prep—store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.