Save to Pinterest A rustic, comforting pasta bake featuring tender ziti, creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and briny olives, all enveloped in a savory tomato sauce and finished with melted cheese.
I first served this warm baked ziti to my family on a chilly evening and it was an instant hit, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1 pound (450 g) ziti or penne pasta
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil , 3 cloves garlic , minced , 1 medium yellow onion , finely chopped , 6 ounces (170 g) fresh baby spinach
- Cheese & Dairy: 1 1/2 cups (375 g) ricotta cheese , 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese , 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese , 1 large egg
- Sauce: 1 jar (24 ounces/680 g) marinara sauce , 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano , 1/2 teaspoon dried basil , 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) , Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olives: 1/2 cup (80 g) Kalamata or black olives , pitted and sliced
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook ziti until just al dente according to package directions Drain and set aside
- Step 3:
- While pasta cooks , heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add onion and cook until translucent , about 4 minutes Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more
- Step 4:
- Add spinach and cook , stirring , until wilted , about 2 minutes Remove from heat
- Step 5:
- In a large bowl , mix ricotta , egg , 1/2 cup mozzarella , 1/4 cup Parmesan , oregano , basil , red pepper flakes , and a pinch of salt and pepper Stir in cooked spinach mixture and sliced olives
- Step 6:
- Add marinara sauce and cooked ziti to the bowl Gently fold until evenly combined
- Step 7:
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top
- Step 8:
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes , until cheese is bubbly and golden
- Step 9:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving
Save to Pinterest This dish brings everyone to the table and sparks wonderful conversations with family and friends.
Required Tools
Large pot , Large skillet , Mixing bowl , 9x13-inch baking dish , Foil
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) , milk , and egg Double-check cheese and pasta labels for allergen information if needed
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420 , Total Fat: 17 g , Carbohydrates: 52 g , Protein: 18 g per serving
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This warm baked ziti is sure to become a family favorite you can enjoy all year round
Your Questions Answered
- → Can I substitute the ziti pasta?
Yes, penne or any other tubular pasta works well as a substitute while maintaining the dish's texture.
- → How do olives affect the dish’s flavor?
Olives add a briny, slightly tangy note that complements the creamy ricotta and savory tomato sauce.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the layers ahead, refrigerate, then bake just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What cheese combination enhances the bake?
A blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates creamy, melty, and slightly sharp flavors that elevate the dish.
- → Is there a way to add more vegetables?
Yes, adding sun-dried tomatoes or replacing spinach with kale can boost nutritional variety and flavor.
- → How do I ensure the pasta doesn't become mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente and drain well before combining with the sauce and other ingredients.