Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of feta, the vibrant green of fresh spinach, and the comforting warmth of perfectly baked pasta - all in one mouthwatering creation! This Spinach Feta Baked Pasta isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a food enthusiast craving a Greek-inspired comfort dish, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of choice
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle for even heating.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, fresh spinach, marinara sauce, and reserved pasta water. Toss gently to help the spinach begin to wilt.
- Drizzle olive oil into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the pasta and spinach mixture evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the pasta. Distribute red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper evenly across the surface.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cheese to partially melt.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is slightly golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional red pepper flakes or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta just shy of al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. This prevents mushy pasta and ensures a perfect texture.
- Cheese Matters: Use high-quality, authentic feta for the best flavor. Crumble it fresh rather than using pre-crumbled varieties for more authentic taste.
- Spinach Tip: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent a watery dish.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, reduce or omit; for heat lovers, add extra!
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked when ready to serve - perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a crisp Greek salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 361kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 14g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
