Name: Baked Penne with Spinach, Ricotta & Fontina
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb penne; 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (10 oz); ½ cup basil leaves, roughly chopped (packed); 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese; 4 oz mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese); 2 cups half-and-half; 2 cups grated fontina or whole milk mozzarella (divided); 5 tablespoons finely grated Pecorino Romano (or Parmigiano Reggiano, divided); 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Introduction to Baked Penne with Spinach

What Makes Baked Penne with Spinach a Go-To Dish for Young Professionals?

If you're a young professional juggling a busy schedule, Baked Penne with Spinach is the perfect recipe to have in your kitchen arsenal. This dish strikes a beautiful balance between comfort and nutrition, making weeknight dinners a breeze. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing—whether with friends after work or as delightful leftovers for the week ahead.

Not only is this pasta bake loaded with wholesome ingredients like spinach, ricotta, and fontina cheese, but it also offers an astounding flavor profile without requiring chef-level skills. It’s an impressive dish for date nights or casual gatherings, pulling double duty as both a hearty main course and a conversation starter.

Plus, if you’re looking to boost your vegetable intake, this recipe is a sneaky way to do just that, making it easier to stay aligned with your health goals. You might even love it so much that it becomes your new go-to comfort food! Check out this guide on incorporating more veggies into your diet for additional inspiration.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just beginning to navigate the kitchen, Baked Penne with Spinach is a versatile and delicious choice that can easily adapt to your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Baked Penne with Spinach

Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Bake

Creating a delicious Baked Penne with Spinach, Ricotta & Fontina starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a friendly rundown of what you’ll need to achieve that creamy, cheesy goodness that makes this dish a favorite.

Pasta: Start with 1 lb of penne, which holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Spinach: Use a 10 oz package of frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry for the perfect texture.
Cheeses: You’ll need 1 cup of whole milk ricotta and 4 oz of mascarpone (or cream cheese) to give that rich flavor. Additionally, 2 cups of grated fontina (or whole milk mozzarella) adds a delightful melt.
Herbs and Aromatics: Fresh basil leaves (½ cup), garlic (2 cloves), and a sprinkle of nutmeg elevate the flavor profile.
Creamy Elements: Combine 2 cups of half-and-half for that luscious creaminess.
Seasonings: Don’t forget salt (1 tsp), freshly ground black pepper (¼ tsp), and rustic Pecorino Romano (5 tbsp) for that savory finish.

Make sure you've got these essentials, and you're well on your way to a stellar baked penne dish! For added resources on ingredient selection, check out The Kitchn's guide on pasta types.

Preparing Baked Penne with Spinach

Making Baked Penne with Spinach, Ricotta & Fontina is not only simple, but it's also a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting, vegetarian dish that's loaded with flavor. Let’s walk through each step to ensure you create the most delicious baked penne that will impress everyone at the dinner table.

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, it’s crucial to gather all your ingredients. This recipe calls for:

1 lb penne
10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
½ cup packed basil leaves, roughly chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
4 oz mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese)
2 cups half-and-half
2 cups grated fontina cheese (or whole milk mozzarella)
5 tablespoons finely grated Pecorino Romano (or Parmigiano Reggiano)
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Make sure you prepare the spinach by thawing and squeezing out excess moisture, as this step is vital to avoiding a soggy pasta bake. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly oil a baking dish to ensure your pasta doesn't stick!

Cook the Penne to Perfection

Cook your penne in boiling salted water according to package instructions, usually around 9 minutes for an al dente texture. Remember, it will continue cooking in the oven, so you want it slightly firm. After draining, rinse with cold water, which helps stop the cooking process. Set your pasta aside while you prepare the spinach and cheese mixture.

Blend the Spinach and Cheese Mixture

Grab your food processor! Combine the spinach, basil, ricotta, mascarpone, half-and-half, 1 cup of fontina, 3 tablespoons of Pecorino Romano, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This mixture is essential for the rich and flavorful base of your baked penne.

Combine the Pasta with the Spinach Mixture

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Stir the spinach and cheese mixture into the cooked penne. Ensure that each piece of pasta is coated in that wonderful green goodness. Once combined, transfer everything to your prepared baking dish.

Bake and Achieve Golden Perfection

Top your assembled dish with the remaining fontina and Pecorino Romano. Now, let the oven do the heavy lifting! Bake for about 20 minutes, or until you observe bubbling edges and a golden top. This step not only warms everything through but also gives it that beautiful, crispy finish.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair your Baked Penne with Spinach with a fresh side salad—like this Big Italian Salad—for a delicious meal that showcases comfort and flavor. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Variations on Baked Penne with Spinach

Adding Protein: Chicken Ham or Turkey Bacon

Looking to enhance your Baked Penne with Spinach dish? Adding protein can make it more satisfying! Consider incorporating chicken ham for a savory twist or turkey bacon for a smoky flavor without the heft. Simply sauté the protein before mixing it into your baked penne. Not only does this boost the meal's heartiness, but it also adds layers of flavor that complement the rich cheeses and vibrant spinach.

Customizing Vegetables: Try Broccoli or Bell Peppers

Feel free to customize your baked penne by introducing different veggies! Chopped broccoli or diced bell peppers are excellent choices that add crunch and nutrition. You can either toss them in raw before baking for a tender finish or lightly sauté them first for added depth of flavor. Personalizing your dish not only makes it more exciting but also allows you to cater to your tastes and seasonal produce availability. For more veggie inspiration, check out this article on seasonal vegetables.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Penne with Spinach

Achieving the Ultimate Creaminess

For a truly creamy Baked Penne with Spinach, be sure to use full-fat dairy products like whole milk ricotta and half-and-half. This richness plays a crucial role in achieving that luxurious mouthfeel. Also, don’t skimp on the mixing time—ensure the cheese blend is well incorporated for an even creaminess throughout.

Making Ahead: Storage Tips and Reheating

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance; simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. To reheat leftovers, cover with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Need more tips? Check out The Kitchn for expert advice on storing pasta dishes!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Penne with Spinach

Pairing with a Big Italian Salad

No pasta dish feels complete without a fresh, vibrant salad. Pair your Baked Penne with Spinach alongside a delicious Big Italian Salad, loaded with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a zesty vinaigrette. The salad's acidity will balance the creaminess of the baked penne, making each bite utterly satisfying. Personalize it with your favorite toppings—perhaps some grilled chicken or a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra punch!

Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Your Meal

To elevate your dining experience, consider these delightful side dishes:

Garlic Bread: A buttery, garlic-infused loaf is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers add a nutritious and colorful touch to your table.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a classic counterpart.

These options will serve as the ideal complement to your Baked Penne with Spinach, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!

Time Breakdown for Baked Penne with Spinach

Preparation Time

The beauty of this Baked Penne with Spinach dish lies in its simplicity. You'll only need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prepare everything.

Cooking Time

Once your ingredients are ready, the cooking process takes approximately 30 minutes, giving you time to kick back and relax while it bakes to perfection.

Total Time

In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal ready to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy get-together, you can enjoy this delightful vegetarian dish without the fuss! Want to explore more comforting dishes? Check out Once Upon a Chef for other delicious recipes.

Nutritional Facts for Baked Penne with Spinach

Calories per serving

This delicious Baked Penne with Spinach, Ricotta & Fontina packs about 692 calories per serving, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner.

Protein content

With a whopping 31 grams of protein per serving, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also helps keep you full and nourished.

Sodium levels

It's important to note that this recipe has around 956 milligrams of sodium per serving, so be mindful if you're watching your sodium intake. Enjoy this rich, cheesy dish in moderation!

Feel free to explore more information on nutrition and healthy eating over at the American Heart Association. This way, you can enjoy your favorite meals while staying informed about dietary choices!

FAQs about Baked Penne with Spinach

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make your Baked Penne with Spinach gluten-free, simply swap standard penne pasta for a gluten-free version available in most grocery stores. There are various options like rice, quinoa, or legume-based pastas that can provide a similar texture, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty dish!

Can I substitute the cheeses for a lighter version?

Absolutely! If you're looking to lighten up this recipe, consider using reduced-fat ricotta and part-skim mozzarella instead of full-fat versions. You could even opt for cottage cheese blended until smooth for a creamy texture with fewer calories. Just remember, you might lose some richness, but the flavor will still shine through.

What are the best ways to store leftovers?

Leftovers from your Baked Penne with Spinach can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of half-and-half to maintain moisture. Who doesn’t love a cozy, reheated meal?

Conclusion on Baked Penne with Spinach

Baked Penne with Spinach is the perfect dish for cozy weeknights or gathering friends around the table. Its creamy, cheesy goodness and vibrant spinach make it a hearty vegetarian option that everyone will love. Try it with a big salad for a balanced meal that’s sure to impress!

Final Thoughts on Your Pasta Creation

When you dive into this Baked Penne with Spinach, you're not just creating a meal; you're bringing comfort and warmth to the table. It's an excellent way to sneak some greens into your diet while indulging in a rich, creamy sauce.

Eager to make it your own? Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add protein like chicken or turkey bacon. The possibilities are endless!

Explore More Recipes

If you're looking for more delicious vegetarian options, check out the Big Italian Salad for a refreshing side. Happy cooking!