Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta

Name: Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I love preparing Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta for a cozy family dinner. This dish is creamy, flavorful, and a delightful way to sneak in some greens. The combination of fresh ricotta and sautéed spinach creates a rich filling, while the pasta bakes to perfection, creating a delicious crust. It's an ultimate comfort food that I find myself returning to time and again. Plus, it's quick to assemble, which makes it perfect for those busy weeknights when I still want something special without too much fuss.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-21T22:01:34.696Z

When I first made Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta, I was a bit skeptical about how the flavors would meld. However, after several iterations, I discovered that adding a pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavor profile beautifully and balances the creaminess of the ricotta. I also learned that letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows the pasta to absorb the sauce better, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

Another tip I’d like to share is the importance of using fresh spinach instead of frozen. Fresh spinach gives a bright, vibrant flavor and adds a lovely texture to the dish that frozen simply cannot replicate. I often find myself experimenting with different cheeses, and every variation has been a hit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy ricotta beautifully balances fresh spinach
Deliciously cheesy with a golden, crusty top
Perfectly satisfying for a weeknight dinner or meal prep

Pasta Selection and Cooking Tips

Choosing the right pasta for Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta is essential for achieving the perfect texture. I recommend using short shapes like penne or fusilli, which hold onto the sauce and cheese better than long noodles. When cooking the pasta, be sure to salt the water generously, as this infuses flavor into the pasta itself. Cook it until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven, helping to prevent a mushy final dish.

After draining the pasta, consider rinsing it briefly under cold water if you're preparing the dish ahead of time. This helps stop the cooking process and makes it easier to combine with the cheese and spinach mixture. If you're using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on it for doneness.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

The key to a rich and balanced flavor in this dish lies in the combination of ricotta and sautéed spinach. Fresh ricotta provides a creamy, slightly sweet base that pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of cooked spinach. To elevate this flavor further, don’t skip the nutmeg; it adds a subtle warmth that enhances the ricotta. For an extra layer of complexity, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process to introduce a hint of heat.

Texture is equally important—baking the pasta with its cheesy topping until golden and bubbly gives that coveted crust on the surface while keeping the interior creamy. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary; around 25-30 minutes should produce a deliciously bubbly top. If you're looking for more crispness, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but monitor closely to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Spinach Mixture

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, half of the mozzarella, and half of the parmesan. Mix until well combined.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh basil.

Dig in and enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish with a kick!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator carefully covered in foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the cover and pop it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge. Just make sure to check the cheese's melting point to ensure a gooey center.

For longer storage, Baked Ricotta Spinach Pasta freezes beautifully. Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to three months. For reheating, allow it to defrost in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad—think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to offset the creaminess. A simple arugula salad with lemon juice and olive oil is my go-to. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables, which can add a fantastic contrast in textures and flavors.

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding proteins such as grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal. You could also mix in sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to change up the flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these ingredients might introduce new flavors that need balancing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly first to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute, but it may alter the overall texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.