Baked Rigatoni with Spinach and Ricotta

When it comes to meals that warm the soul and bring everyone to the table, Baked Rigatoni with Spinach and Ricotta is a top contender. Imagine tender rigatoni coated in marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella, then baked to golden perfection. It’s hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying—perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a go-to recipe for busy nights.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with spinach and cheesy goodness, it’s a satisfying meatless meal.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, switch up the cheeses, or toss in some cooked sausage or ground beef if you prefer.
• Family-Approved: This dish is universally loved, making it perfect for picky eaters and pasta enthusiasts alike.

What Does It Taste Like?

Think of your favorite baked ziti—but better. The ricotta adds a creamy, velvety texture, while the spinach brings freshness and balance. With layers of marinara sauce, bubbling mozzarella, and the salty tang of Parmesan, this dish delivers a rich, cheesy, and slightly garlicky flavor in every bite.

Benefits of This Recipe

1. Comforting: Perfect for cold nights or when you need a little pick-me-up.
2. Nutritious Twist: Fresh spinach sneaks in a dose of greens without compromising flavor.
3. Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

To whip up this pasta bake, you’ll need:

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta, cooked al dente
• 2 ½ cups marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, lightly sautéed
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet for sautéing spinach
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Veggies: Try adding sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or zucchini.
• Protein: Stir in cooked Italian sausage, shredded chicken, or ground turkey.
• Cheese: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or add a layer of béchamel for extra creaminess.

How to Make Baked Rigatoni with Spinach and Ricotta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Pasta Base

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, marinara sauce, sautéed spinach, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Add dollops of ricotta cheese over the pasta, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella.

Step 4: Add the Final Touch

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

What to Serve With It

• Garlic Bread: Because what’s pasta without garlic bread?
• Simple Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts are perfect companions.

Tips for Perfect Rigatoni

1. Cook the Pasta Al Dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy after baking.
2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest ensures cleaner slices and better flavors.
3. Cover if Needed: If the cheese browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil during baking.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?

Absolutely—just ensure it’s cooked al dente to prevent breaking during baking.

How Do I Keep It from Drying Out?

Be sure to use enough marinara sauce and cover the dish with foil if reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Rigatoni with Spinach and Ricotta is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. The combination of tender pasta, rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese creates a dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner every time.

Have you tried it yet? Leave a review and share your creations on Pinterest—I’d love to see your cheesy masterpieces!

Looking for more comforting casserole ideas? Check out these recipes:

• Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
• Mexican White Trash Casserole
• Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole
• French Onion Beef Casserole

Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

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