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- 12 ounces ziti pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups fresh spinach - 15 ounces ricotta cheese - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Savory Baked Ziti with Spinach and Cheese

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Spinach Delight Baked Ziti! This flavorful recipe elevates the classic baked ziti by blending creamy cheeses with fresh spinach for a nutritious twist. Easy to make and perfect for gatherings, this hearty dish combines ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and aromatic herbs to create a delightful meal that satisfies cravings and nourishes the body. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a cozy night in with this delicious recipe.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Spinach and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Remove from heat.

        Mix the Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

          Combine Ingredients: In the large mixing bowl with the cheese mixture, gently fold in the cooked ziti, sautéed spinach, and marinara sauce. Mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.

            Assemble the Ziti: Pour half of the ziti mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Add the rest of the ziti mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent browning) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, savory dish!

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