Baked Ziti with Spinach
This Baked Ziti with Spinach is a no-fuss weeknight dinner loaded with delicious vegetables, herbs, and three kinds of cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 oz dry whole-grain ziti or penne pasta
- 2 tsp. olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1 (10-oz.) bag raw spinach
- 1½ cups whole peeled tomatoes (like San Marzano or Cento) crushed or pureed in blender or food processor.
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil
- ½ tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
- ¼ tsp. ground black pepper
- 1 dash crushed red pepper flakes optional
- ¾ cup part-skim Mozzarella cheese divided use
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups part-skim ricotta cheese
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Set aside.
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Preheat oven to 375º F.
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Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute.
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Add spinach, tomatoes, and basil. Season with salt and pepper; cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes.
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Combine spinach mixture, pasta, red pepper flakes (if desired), ½ cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese in a large bowl; mix well.
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Place in a 2½ to 3-quart casserole that is lightly coated with spray. Bake, covered with aluminum foil, for 35 minutes. Remove foil.
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Top evenly with remaining ¼ cup mozzarella cheese. Bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly.
Recipe Notes
The Nutrition Facts box below provides estimated nutritional information for this recipe.