There’s nothing like a warm, homecooked meal to bring the family together, and our Artichoke and Spinach Baked Ziti is the perfect dish for such occasions. This recipe combines the hearty flavors of artichokes and spinach with ziti noodles in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce. Baked to perfection with a layer of melted cheese, this dish not only pleases the palate but also captures the essence of cozy, homely cooking. Perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or a comforting weeknight meal, this baked ziti is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped artichoke hearts and spinach to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, artichoke mixture, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Helpful Tips
Make it ahead: You can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s been chilled.
Ingredient substitutions: Feel free to substitute kale for spinach or use a combination of both for added flavor and texture.
Storage instructions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Complementary Dishes and Drinks
This Artichoke and Spinach Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For drinks, consider serving with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
We hope you and your family enjoy this delightful Artichoke and Spinach Baked Ziti as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We invite you to leave feedback on our website at Zynahz.
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