Go Back
When it comes to comforting family meals, few dishes can compete with the heartwarming goodness of baked ziti. This Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti with Sneaky Spinach takes the classic Italian-American favorite and adds a nutritious twist, making it an ideal option for parents looking to sneak more vegetables into their children's diets. With its rich layers of cheesy goodness and hidden greens, this recipe ensures that everyone at the table, from picky eaters to health-conscious adults, will enjoy every bite.

Easy Baked Ziti with Hidden Spinach

Indulge in comfort with this Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti featuring Sneaky Spinach! This family-friendly recipe not only brings together rich layers of pasta, marinara, and melty cheese but also cleverly incorporates spinach for a nutritious boost. Perfect for picky eaters and health-conscious adults alike, this dish makes family meals both delicious and wholesome. Enjoy the bonding experience as you share this delightful and easy-to-make casserole at your dinner table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach (chopped finely)

1 egg

2 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions
 

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

    Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Spinach: In a skillet, heat a splash of 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 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

        Mix Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, sautéed spinach, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a separate large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the marinara sauce until well coated.

            Layer the Dish: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture evenly in the bottom. Add the cheese filling over the pasta layer, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining ziti and marinara sauce.

              Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top of the ziti. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little more Parmesan if desired.

                Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                  Serve: Allow the baked ziti to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Dish out generous portions and enjoy your cheesy delight with hidden spinach!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings