If you're looking for a delicious, healthy dinner idea that the whole family will love, look no further than this tasty baked ziti with spinach and ricotta cheese! This dish is packed with protein, fiber and all the nutrients your family needs to stay healthy and strong. Plus, it's simple to make and can be prepared in advance for a quick and easy meal during the week. Serve it with a side salad or veggies for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking liquid. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes. Transfer the cooked spinach to a large bowl. To the bowl with the spinach, add the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and reserved cooking liquid. Mix well to combine. In an 8x8-inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked ziti on the bottom of the dish.
Top with half of the cheese mixture and spread evenly. Top with remaining ziti noodles and then top with remaining cheese mixture. Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips for Making Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a classic Italian pasta dish that is sure to be a hit with the whole family.For added flavor, try adding cooked sausage or ground beef to the cheese mixture before baking. You can also use different types of cheeses such as mozzarella or provolone. For an extra creamy sauce, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the cheese mixture before baking. This will make the dish more flavorful and give it a creamier texture. When baking your ziti, try to cover the baking dish with foil to prevent it from drying out.
If you want extra crunchy edges, you can leave the dish uncovered for the last few minutes of baking. To make sure your dish is cooked through, use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the ziti is 165°F.For added nutrition, consider adding some vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the cheese mixture. You can also add fresh herbs such as basil or oregano for a more flavorful dish. Finally, top your dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finish. Baked ziti with spinach and ricotta cheese is an easy and delicious meal that can be made in just a few simple steps.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty dish to bring to a potluck, this flavorful pasta dish is sure to be a hit! With its combination of ziti pasta, spinach, ricotta cheese, and a simple sauce, it is sure to be a crowd pleaser. For those looking for a healthy dinner option, this baked ziti is full of flavor and nutrition. Tips for making the perfect baked ziti include using high-quality ingredients and ensuring that the sauce is not overly watery. By following these simple steps, you can easily create a delicious and healthy dinner for the whole family.
