- Olive oil, for sautéing (SEO keyword: olive oil)
- Butter, for enhancing flavor (SEO keyword: butter)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (SEO keyword: salt and pepper)
- Nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor without dairy; SEO keyword: nutritional yeast)
- Herbs like basil or oregano (optional, for added freshness; SEO keyword: fresh herbs)
Note: This list includes SEO-friendly keywords that can help with search optimization while providing clear ingredients for your recipe.
Steps
### Baked Spinach Pasta Casserole: A Delicious and Healthy Main Dish
Creating a baked spinach pasta casserole is an excellent way to enjoy a hearty meal that's packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe combines fresh spinach, tender pasta, creamy cheese, and savory herbs for a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of penne or fusilli pasta
- 8 cups (240g) fresh spinach leaves
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
#### Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Baking dish (9x13 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the casserole bakes evenly.
2. **Cook the Pasta:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
3. **Prepare the Spinach:**
- In another pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
- Add spinach leaves to the pan. Cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. **Combine Ingredients:**
- Place cooked pasta in a large mixing bowl.
- Add cooked spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, and cheeses (Parmesan and mozzarella).
- Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
5. **Assemble the Casserole:**
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the mixture out evenly to ensure a consistent thickness.
6. **Bake the Casserole:**
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. **Serve and Enjoy!**
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot as part of a balanced meal, perhaps alongside a side salad or garlic bread.
### SEO Keywords:
- Baked Spinach Pasta Casserole
- Healthy Main Dish
- Penne Pasta Recipes
- Comfort Food Recipes
- Vegetarian Casseroles
- Spinach and Ricotta Pasta
This recipe not only ensures you have a delicious meal but also incorporates nutrients from the spinach, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters. Enjoy crafting your casserole and savoring its rich flavors!