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- 12 oz ziti pasta - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 15 oz ricotta cheese - 2 cups marinara sauce - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tsp dried oregano - 1 tsp salt - 1/2 tsp black pepper - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Easy Baked Ziti with Spinach and Mozzarella

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Spinach Delight Baked Ziti! This delicious dish features a comforting blend of ziti pasta, creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella, creating a flavorful experience perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, this baked ziti is more than just a meal; it's a delightful way to bring people together. Try this recipe and enjoy the warm satisfaction it offers!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Spinach Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well-combined.

        Combine with Marinara: Add the cooked ziti pasta to the spinach mixture. Pour in the marinara sauce and mix until the pasta is evenly coated.

          Layer in Baking Dish: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture. Sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese on top. Add the remaining ziti mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese (and red pepper flakes if using).

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

              Cool and Garnish: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.

                Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 55 mins | Servings: 6