Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta

Name: Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (penne or fusilli); 250g ricotta cheese; 100g grated mozzarella cheese; 100g fresh spinach; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for greasing; Parmesan cheese for finishing

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

I absolutely love this Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta! It’s one of my favorite comfort foods that never fails to impress my family and friends. The rich and creamy ricotta pairs beautifully with fresh spinach, all enveloped in tender pasta, baked with a sprinkle of cheese on top. This dish is simple to prepare yet has an air of sophistication that makes it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. I promise, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a weekly staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-19T21:05:34.156Z

When I first made this Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta, I was amazed by how easily the flavors meld together. The combination of spinach and ricotta creates a delightfully creamy texture, and the baked topping gives it a satisfying crunch. I used fresh spinach for a burst of vibrant flavor, but you can substitute frozen, too, just make sure to drain it well!

This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste. Sometimes, I add a hint of garlic or mix in cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of color and flavor. It’s a recipe that invites creativity while always delivering a comforting meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta cheese that balances perfectly with sautéed spinach
Golden, bubbly cheese topping that adds a satisfying crunch
Comfort food that's both indulgent and nutritious

      

Choosing the Right Pasta

When selecting pasta for this Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta, penne or fusilli are excellent choices due to their shape. These types can hold onto the ricotta and spinach mixture better than flat pasta varieties. Aim for a slightly hard texture when cooking to al dente; this allows the pasta to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy during baking. If you can’t find penne or fusilli, feel free to experiment with other shapes like ziti or farfalle, but adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size of the pasta.

Using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is also a fantastic alternative if dietary needs require it. Just keep in mind that these variations might have different cooking times, so be sure to taste the pasta for doneness before combining it with the other ingredients. Exploring different pasta shapes can not only enhance the texture but also give your dish a unique presentation.

Perfecting the Spinach Mixture

Cooking the spinach properly makes a significant difference in both flavor and texture. When sautéing the spinach with garlic, don’t rush the process; aim for about 3-4 minutes over medium heat, which allows the leaves to wilt but not lose their vibrant green color. This lack of overcooking preserves not only the nutrients but also the freshness, providing a lovely contrast to the creamy ricotta. If you find the sautéed spinach too wet, consider squeezing out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel before mixing into the dish.

Moreover, if you’d like to jazz up the spinach mixture, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor. These additions can brighten the dish and complement the creaminess of the ricotta. Always taste and adjust seasoning during the cooking process to ensure a well-balanced flavor profile before combining everything together.

Baking and Serving Tips

When it's time to bake, lining your dish with olive oil not only prevents sticking but can also slightly enhance the flavor. Ensure that you spread the cheese evenly over the top; this will promote an even browning and bubbling. If your cheese isn’t browning as much as you’d like, a few minutes under the broiler at the end can create that beautiful golden crust. Keep an eye on it, as it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly!

Let your Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta cool for about 5–10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting time helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve and ensuring that every scoop holds its shape. For serving, a light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the dish further. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your pasta masterpiece!

Ingredients

300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
250g ricotta cheese
100g grated mozzarella cheese
100g fresh spinach
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for greasing
Parmesan cheese for finishing

Ensure to have all ingredients ready before starting to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Spinach Mixture

In a pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, and the egg. Mix well. Then, stir in the cooked pasta and half of the mozzarella cheese.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour in the pasta mixture. Top with the remaining mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Final Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in your favorite herbs or spices during the preparation. A touch of nutmeg can complement the ricotta beautifully!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for alternatives to ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can work in a pinch, offering a similar creamy texture, though it will have a slightly different flavor. Blending cottage cheese in a food processor can create a smoother consistency if that's your preference. For a plant-based option, consider using tofu blended with nutritional yeast; this will maintain creaminess while catering to vegan diets.

In case you don't have fresh spinach on hand, frozen spinach can be utilized as well, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess water. If you're not a fan of spinach, other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard can be fantastic substitutes. Just remember that these might require slightly longer cooking times to ensure they’re tender.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is fantastic for meal prepping! You can prepare the pasta and spinach mixture the day before and store it in the fridge. Just cover your baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. On baking day, simply assemble it with mozzarella and pop it in the oven directly from the fridge; it may require an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time due to the cold temperature of the mixture.

For leftovers, this Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, a simple microwave will work, but I recommend reheating it in the oven to regain that desirable crisp top, covering it loosely with foil for the first half to avoid burning.

Variations to Try

For added protein, consider mixing in shredded cooked chicken or sautéed ground sausage into the pasta mixture. This transformation can create a heartier dish that is perfect for a satisfying family meal. Another variation is to add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and a pop of color.

If you’re looking for a touch of spice, mixing in red pepper flakes or using pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella can add a flavorful kick. Experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano to impart an Italian twist. Finding creative spins on this classic can make meal times exciting and unique!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to drain the excess water before mixing it with the ricotta.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and bake it right before serving.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes! Adding cooked chicken or sausage can enhance the flavor and make it even more filling.