Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe

If you have been searching for a comforting, vibrant, and utterly delicious meal to add to your dinner repertoire, this Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect blend of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella all baked together with tender pasta smothered in rich marinara sauce. Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for family or friends. This dish balances freshness and indulgence in one satisfying casserole that’s surprisingly simple but packed with flavor. You’re about to discover your new favorite pasta bake dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are all easy to find and each plays a key role in creating the perfect texture and flavor of this recipe. From the tender pasta to the cheesy, herby ricotta mixture and vibrant spinach, every element works together to make this pasta bake irresistible.

• 12 oz (340g) pasta: Penne or rigatoni work great for holding the creamy sauce within their ridges.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the spinach from sticking when sautéed.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory depth to the spinach mixture.
• 8 oz (225g) fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained): Provides vibrant color and earthy freshness to the dish.
• 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese: Creates the creamy, luscious base for the pasta filling.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the filling together for perfect sliceability.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory kick.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully and creates that irresistible bubbly topping.
• 1 cup marinara sauce: For a tangy, comforting tomato backdrop.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that pulls all the flavors into a cohesive harmony.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor.
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, aromatic pop and pretty finishing touch.

How to Make Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil or cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks and your pasta bake browns beautifully on the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta of choice (penne or rigatoni are ideal) until just al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture while baking. Drain well and set aside. Perfectly cooked pasta is the backbone of this bake, so don’t overcook.

Step 3: Sauté the Spinach and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn those lovely cloves. Toss in your fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt, or if using frozen spinach, make sure it’s drained well and cook briefly to remove moisture. Season with salt and pepper to bring out natural flavors.

Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, one egg, grated Parmesan, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Then fold in the sautéed spinach mixture, making sure every bit is incorporated for balanced flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Assemble the Pasta Bake

Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta and spinach mixture, gently folding to coat the pasta with the rich filling. Pour half of your marinara sauce into the bottom of your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Transfer your pasta mixture on top and spread it out gently to create one even layer. Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the top before sprinkling the rest of your mozzarella cheese evenly to top things off.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow everything to warm through and flavors to meld. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake an additional 5 minutes to let the cheese become golden and bubbly—this finishing touch makes the dish irresistibly inviting.

Step 7: Ready to Serve

Once baked, let your pasta bake rest for a few minutes to set. This resting time makes it easier to slice and serves up warmly with all that cheesy goodness still glowing. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley if you like, adding a lovely herbal brightness to every portion.

How to Serve Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil or parsley works wonderfully to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. A little extra grated Parmesan right before serving also adds a salty punch and elegant finish that turns this into a meal worth savoring.

Side Dishes

This pasta bake pairs beautifully with crisp green salads tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. The freshness of the sides contrasts nicely with the creamy richness of the bake, keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This adds charm and makes for easy, no-fuss plating when entertaining guests. You could even sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top for a delightful crunch that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste and texture when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Freezing

If you want to save time down the road, this bake freezes well. Prepare the dish completely, then freeze before baking or after it has cooled post-bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave a portion on medium power in short intervals, but the oven method preserves texture better.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works perfectly as long as you thaw it fully and squeeze out any excess water to avoid a watery pasta bake.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Penne, rigatoni, or other tubular pasta shapes are ideal because their hollow centers trap the sauce and filling, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This dish is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat, so it fits wonderfully in vegetarian meal plans. Just be sure to use marinara sauce without added meat stock.

Is it possible to add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to stir in cooked mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or zucchini for additional texture and flavor variations that complement the creamy ricotta and spinach.

How do I make the dish less rich?

You can reduce the amount of ricotta or use part-skim versions of the cheeses. Additionally, swapping half of the mozzarella for a lighter cheese like provolone can reduce richness without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly heartwarming about a Spinach & Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe that combines comfort food with fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s easy to make yet feels special enough to serve any night of the week. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become one of your go-to dishes for feeding loved ones with love, flavor, and a little cheesy magic.

Print