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Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake

Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake

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This Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines pasta with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, topped with a layer of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

  • 400 g small pasta (malfade, penne, rigatoni, or small shells)
  • 375 g ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup grated parmesan
  • 3 cups baby spinach

Additional Ingredients:

  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp grated garlic
  • ½ tsp sea salt flakes
  • ½ tsp cracked black pepper
  • 500 g tomato pasta sauce
  • ½ cup pesto
  • ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Olive oil spray
  • Olive oil
  • Chilli flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Layer the ingredients: In the baking dish, layer half of the pasta, tomato sauce, pesto, and cheese mixture. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
  5. Top with breadcrumbs: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top and drizzle with olive oil. Cover with foil.
  6. Bake: Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chilli flakes if desired.

Notes

  • You can add cooked chicken or sausage to make it a heartier dish.
  • Feel free to customize the types of cheese or pasta to suit your preferences.

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