Ingredients
4 cups marinara sauce Provides a rich, tomato-based foundation that adds depth and tanginess to the dish.
2 cups ricotta cheese Offers a creamy texture and protein, helping to make the meal more filling and nutritious.
2 garlic cloves minced Adds aromatic flavor and subtle spice, enhancing the overall taste without overwhelming other elements.
1 tablespoon lemon zest Brings a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness and adds a fresh twist.
1 teaspoon oregano Infuses earthy herbs for a Mediterranean flair, boosting the dish’s savory profile.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes Introduces a gentle heat that elevates the flavors and keeps things exciting.
¾ teaspoon sea salt, plus extra for pasta water Seasons the ingredients perfectly, ensuring every bite is well-balanced and tasty.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Allows for adjustable seasoning, adding a peppery kick as needed.
1 pound ziti pasta Serves as the base, providing hearty carbs that make the meal satisfying for quick dinners.
Olive oil, for drizzling Helps with sautéing and adds healthy fats, while keeping the spinach wilted just right.
1 pound fresh spinach Adds vitamins and greens, making the recipe a nutritious choice for balanced meals.
1½ cups smoked mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey layer that’s full of flavor and protein.
¼ cup grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese Finishes the dish with a sharp, nutty taste that enhances the overall appeal.
Instructions
1-Prepping Your Ingredients: First, gather all your ingredients and tools to make the process smooth. For Baked Ziti, preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spreading ½ cup of marinara sauce at the bottom. This step takes about 5 minutes and sets the stage for even cooking.
2-Prepping Your Ingredients: Next, in a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the minced garlic, lemon zest, oregano, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined, which should take around 2 minutes, and set it aside for the flavors to meld.
3-Cooking the Pasta and Spinach: Then, cook 1 pound of ziti pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until it’s al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot to keep it warm. While the pasta cooks, sauté the fresh spinach in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat until it’s wilted, about 3 minutes, then chop it roughly.
4-Cooking the Pasta and Spinach: After that, combine the cooked pasta, most of the wilted spinach, and the remaining marinara sauce in the pot. Season with extra salt and pepper as needed, stirring gently to mix everything without breaking the pasta. This step ensures the flavors blend well for a cohesive dish.
5-Assembling and Baking: Now, layer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Add dollops of the ricotta mixture on top, followed by the remaining spinach, then cover with the rest of the pasta. For the final touch, sprinkle 1½ cups of smoked mozzarella and ¼ cup of grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese over the top, and drizzle with olive oil.
6-Assembling and Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 22 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and browned. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This recipe serves 6 to 8 people and is ready in about 30 minutes total, with 10 minutes prep and 20 minutes cooking.
Last Step:
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🌿 Gently wilt spinach in olive oil to release moisture for best texture.
🍋 Use fresh lemon zest and herbs for brightness and flavor enhancement.
🧀 Prepare sauces or pickles ahead and incorporate leftover veggies for convenience and variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving