Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering Italian masterpiece that combines creamy cheeses, vibrant spinach, and classic marinara sauce in one irresistible dish! This Italian Pasta and Spinach Casserole is not just a meal – it's a culinary journey that brings the warmth of Italian home cooking right to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend gatherings, this recipe promises to become your new family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly and roughly chop it into smaller pieces. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain excess water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture, then gently fold in the fresh spinach until evenly distributed.
- Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Transfer the pasta, spinach, and cheese mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly over the marinara sauce.
- Top the casserole with the remaining marinara sauce, ensuring complete coverage.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to set.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties. The difference in taste is remarkable!
- Don't overcook the pasta – aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. This prevents mushy texture.
- If you want to add extra nutrition, consider mixing in some protein like cooked ground chicken or Italian sausage.
- For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking to achieve a golden, slightly crisp cheese layer.
- Make-ahead tip: You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. Just add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Experiment with different cheese blends – try adding some fontina or provolone for a more complex flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
