Are you ready to impress not just your taste buds but also your loved ones with a dish so delicious it might just make your grandma green with envy? Introducing the "Pasta Dishes Good Grandma Jealous" — an Italian delight that combines creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and perfectly baked penne pasta into a comforting masterpiece. In just 40 minutes, you can create a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it the perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Get ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups penne pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 11-13 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the filling. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as this will wash away the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
- In the same pot used for cooking the pasta, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained pasta back into the pot and gently toss it with the olive oil.
- Add the ricotta and spinach mixture to the pasta, stirring gently to combine. If the mixture appears too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven is ready, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Pasta Dishes Good Grandma Jealous!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the penne pasta until al dente for the best texture. This ensures it holds up well when baked and doesn't become mushy.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding a bit of ricotta or goat cheese can enhance the creaminess, while a sprinkle of feta can give it a tangy twist.
- Add More Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the ricotta mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pasta dish ahead of time. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh basil or parsley before serving. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also enhance the flavors.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this delicious pasta dish with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to make it a complete meal.Enjoy cooking, and remember, the key ingredient is love — sprinkle it generously!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
