Spinach-Ricotta Baked Ziti

Creamy ziti layered with spinach and ricotta, topped with melted cheese—hidden nutrients for picky eaters.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Kid Friendly

Prep: 20 minutes. Cook: 30 minutes.

Serves 6.

Ingredients

• 12 oz Ziti pasta
• 2 cups Spinach, fresh, chopped
• 1.5 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups Tomato sauce
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/8 tsp Black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook 12 oz ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, mix 2 cups tomato sauce with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 minced garlic clove.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups chopped spinach, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Mix until spinach is evenly distributed.
4. Step 4: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the tomato sauce mixture. Add half of the cooked ziti, then half of the spinach-ricotta mixture. Repeat layers with remaining ziti, spinach-ricotta, and tomato sauce.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.