Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake! This recipe is packed with savory flavors and is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese creates a rich and creamy dish that’s bursting with flavor.
2. Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this pasta bake can be on the table in no time.
3. Perfect for meal prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a quick and convenient meal option.

Ingredient Notes:

• Small pasta
• Ricotta cheese
• Freshly shredded mozzarella
• Freshly grated parmesan
• Baby spinach
• Lemon zest
• Fresh garlic
• Sea salt flakes
• Cracked black pepper
• Tomato pasta sauce
• Pesto
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Olive oil spray
• Olive oil
• Chilli flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Layer the pasta, cheese mixture, tomato sauce, and pesto in a baking dish.
4. Top with panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and chilli flakes.
5. Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.

Helpful Tips:

1. For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the cheese mixture.
2. To make this dish vegetarian, use vegetable-based pesto instead of traditional pesto.
3. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out any excess moisture from the spinach to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
2. Allow the pasta bake to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake with a side salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat leftovers, place the pasta bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as fontina or asiago.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
4. Can I freeze this dish? While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

This Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake is a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal! Share your feedback and let us know how you liked it.

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