If you're craving something warm and comforting, Spaghetti al Forno with Spinach and Ricotta is just what you need. This baked pasta dish combines the creamy goodness of ricotta with the freshness of spinach and the savory punch of marinara sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. It's a satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy night in.
Spaghetti forms the base of this dish, providing a familiar, comforting texture. Olive oil is used to sauté the aromatics, imparting a rich depth of flavor. Chopped onion and garlic give the dish its foundational savory notes, while fresh spinach adds a pop of color and essential nutrients. Ricotta cheese brings creaminess, balancing the acidity of the marinara sauce. Mozzarella and parmesan cheese create a melty, golden topping that makes the dish irresistibly cheesy. A sprinkle of dried oregano, along with salt and pepper, seasons everything to perfection. Finally, fresh basil leaves add a bright, aromatic finish.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. A crusty piece of garlic bread or focaccia is perfect for mopping up the extra sauce. And if you're feeling fancy, a glass of light red wine can complement the flavors beautifully.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it's al dente, meaning it should still have a bit of bite. Drain it well and set it aside. You don't want soggy spaghetti in this dish!
Next, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them until the onion is translucent, and you can smell the garlic's delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Now, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir it around until it's wilted down, which should only take a couple of minutes. Once wilted, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and all the parmesan cheese. Add in your cooked spinach mixture and stir everything together. Season it with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. This mixture is going to add so much flavor and creaminess to your pasta bake.
Time to layer! Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Follow this with a layer of cooked spaghetti, then spread the ricotta-spinach mixture on top. Repeat these layers, ending with a final layer of marinara sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of your layered dish. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible!
Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor and a lovely pop of color.
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