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Creamy Cheesy Baked Spinach Ricotta Pasta is a delightful fusion of creamy textures and rich flavors that makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for gatherings. This recipe not only satisfies cravings but also packs in nutrients from fresh spinach and protein from ricotta, making it a wholesome choice for families and health-conscious eaters alike.

Cheesy Baked Spinach Ricotta Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Cheesy Baked Spinach Ricotta Pasta! This easy-to-make dish combines rotini pasta, fresh spinach, and a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for a deliciously creamy meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it's packed with nutrients while remaining indulgent. Bake it until bubbly and golden, and serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A wholesome favorite for the whole family!

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) rotini pasta

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)

1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (divided)

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

        Mix Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, egg, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed spinach to the cheese mixture. Stir until the pasta and spinach are well coated with the cheese mixture. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

              Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top of the pasta.

                Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                  Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings