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- 12 ounces ziti pasta - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Simple Baked Ziti with Spinach and Mozzarella

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Spinach Baked Ziti Delight! This recipe combines tender ziti pasta, creamy cheese, and nutritious spinach for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It’s perfect for gatherings and sneaks in healthy greens amidst cheesy goodness. With rich flavors and a golden-brown crust, this dish is sure to become a mealtime favorite. Try it tonight for a deliciously wholesome experience!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Cook 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: 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 and pepper. Remove from heat.

        Mix Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese (1 cup), half of the grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup), dried oregano, dried basil, and the sautéed spinach mixture. Stir until well blended.

          Combine with Marinara: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Add the cooked ziti pasta and the cheese-spinach mixture to the baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the pasta, ensuring it's evenly covered. Gently toss to combine.

            Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top of the ziti.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve warm and enjoy!

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