Spinach Ziti Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting, cheesy, and vibrant pasta dish that instantly becomes a crowd favorite, this Spinach Ziti Recipe is a must-try. It brings together tender pasta, rich ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, and a fresh, garlicky spinach marinara that delivers flavors so satisfying you’ll want to make it a regular in your dinner rotation. Every bite is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and herb-infused goodness that warms both the heart and the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is simple and rewarding for this recipe. Each one plays an essential role, from the al dente ziti pasta providing the perfect texture to the blend of cheeses that make every forkful irresistibly creamy. Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, while the herbs and spices bring depth and warmth to the sauce.

• Ziti pasta (12 oz): Choose quality pasta that holds sauce well and cooks to a firm, yet tender texture.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A heart-healthy fat that adds richness when sautéing the aromatics.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings a fragrant punch and classic Italian flavor to the dish.
• Onion (1 small, chopped): Adds sweetness and body to the sauce base.
• Fresh spinach (4 cups, chopped): Delivers vibrant color, fresh flavor, and a nutritious boost.
• Marinara sauce (1 jar, 24 oz): A robust tomato base that ties everything together.
• Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Infuses the sauce with its signature aromatic, slightly sweet herb note.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy and peppery undertones, essential in Italian cooking.
• Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): Gives a gentle heat that balances the creamy cheese beautifully.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhance and balance all the natural flavors.
• Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Creamy and mild, it provides a luscious texture in the layers.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts perfectly to give that gooey, cheesy pull everyone loves.
• Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated): Adds a nutty, savory sharpness to round out the cheeses.
• Egg (1): Binds the ricotta mixture so it holds beautifully after baking.
• Heavy cream (½ cup, optional): Enriches the ricotta blend for an ultra-creamy texture that feels indulgent.

How to Make Spinach Ziti Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your pasta bakes evenly and comes out easily without sticking. This first step sets you up for a smooth cooking process and a perfectly crisp top layer.

Step 2: Cook the Ziti Pasta

Cook the ziti according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente — tender but with a slight bite. Drain it well and set it aside to cool slightly. This pasta serves as the perfect base to soak up all that rich spinach marinara sauce later on.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them just until they are soft and fragrant, about three minutes. This creates a flavorful foundation for the sauce with sweet and aromatic notes that will lure everyone to the table.

Step 4: Cook Spinach and Simmer Sauce

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts down and melds with the onions and garlic. Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, and the optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let this simmer gently for five minutes; this step layers the flavors and allows the herbs to release their essence.

Step 5: Mix the Ricotta Cheese Blend

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, and optional heavy cream. Stir until smooth and creamy. This luxurious cheese mixture will add incredible moisture and richness between layers of pasta.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Fold the cooked ziti into the skillet with the spinach marinara sauce, ensuring every piece is nicely coated. This combination is the heart of the Spinach Ziti Recipe, melding vibrant greens with tangy tomato and herbs.

Step 7: Layer the Pasta Dish

Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then, dollop the ricotta cheese blend over the pasta in spoonfuls. Finish by spreading the remaining pasta mixture on top. This layering creates a balanced texture and flavor in every bite.

Step 8: Add Mozzarella Topping

Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese across the top. This final layer ensures the dish gets that irresistible golden, bubbly crust that makes baked pasta so comforting.

Step 9: Bake Until Bubbly and Melted

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. This two-step bake keeps the pasta moist while perfecting the cheesy top.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to set the layers and make it easier to serve. This final pause lets the flavors settle beautifully, making sure each portion comes out intact and delicious.

How to Serve Spinach Ziti Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a handful of fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of herbal freshness and a beautiful green contrast. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a flavorful finishing touch that delights the senses.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the ziti. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette works perfectly for soaking up every last bit of sauce, while roasted vegetables add a hearty, wholesome element to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, bake individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation. You can also layer the spinach ziti in a large casserole dish and bring it directly to the table family-style, inviting everyone to dig into this heartwarming dish together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover spinach ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal where the flavors deepen overnight, making every reheated bite even better.

Freezing

This Spinach Ziti Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place cooled portions or the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it perfect for busy nights or meal prep.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or frozen spinach ziti in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly. Cover with foil to prevent the top from burning and remove it near the end to restore that golden crust. Microwave reheating works too for quick portions, though the oven provides the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works as a convenient substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it very well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce, which can make the dish watery.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the ricotta and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives such as cashew ricotta and plant-based mozzarella. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious and creamy.

Can I add meat to this Spinach Ziti Recipe?

Feel free to add Italian sausage or ground beef if you want to make it heartier. Brown the meat during step 3 with the onions and garlic for the best integration of flavors.

What is the best type of pasta to use?

Ziti is traditional and perfect for this dish due to its tube shape that captures the sauce well. However, penne or rigatoni can also work beautifully as substitutes.

How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle, warm heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. You can adjust or omit them based on your preferred spice level.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Ziti Recipe is truly a celebration of comfort food done right. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to impress guests or feed a hungry family. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly earns a place in your recipe collection — the perfect blend of cheesy, savory, and fresh that always satisfies.

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