Baked Rigatoni with Spinach and Tomato Sauce (50 Minutes)

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There’s nothing quite like a plate of pasta when you’re in need of comfort, and this baked rigatoni with spinach and tomato sauce is sure to hit the spot. Using simple ingredients that come together easily, this dish is both hearty and full of flavor. Spinach brings a fresh twist to the rich tomato sauce, while melted mozzarella creates that irresistibly gooey finish we all love. Best of all, even if you’re pressed for time, this dish is straightforward to prepare and delivers on deliciousness every time.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 jar (24 oz) tomato sauce (or homemade if preferred)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta (10 minutes): Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until it’s just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the garlic and onions (5 minutes): In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onions, sautéing until they become translucent.
  3. Add the tomato sauce and spinach (8 minutes): Add the tomato sauce to the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes. Mix in the chopped spinach until it wilts into the sauce.
  4. Combine the rigatoni (3 minutes): Combine the drained rigatoni with the sauce, ensuring every piece of pasta is well-coated.
  5. Transfer and add the cheese (5 minutes): Transfer the rigatoni and sauce mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake until golden and bubbly (20 minutes): Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden-brown.

Notes

Baked rigatoni is one of those timeless classics that’s always a hit, and this version with spinach and tomato sauce is no exception. To elevate the dish further, consider serving with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side. For those who love a touch of heat, red pepper flakes sprinkled on top can provide a nice kick. A slice of garlic bread would also complement the pasta wonderfully. Enjoy your meal!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Pair this with...

Garlic Bread

Grab a loaf of your favorite bread—baguette or ciabatta are classics. Slice it up, but not all the way through, so it fans out nicely. In a bowl, melt some butter and stir in minced garlic (as much or as little as you like), a sprinkle of salt, and maybe a touch of dried parsley for that extra flair. Generously brush or spread this garlicky goodness between the slices. Wrap the loaf in foil and pop it into a pre-heated oven. When it's golden and aromatic, pull it out and enjoy the buttery, crispy, garlicky delight.

Roasted Asparagus with Sea Salt

Start by preheating your oven. Take fresh asparagus spears, snap off the tough ends, and lay them out on a baking sheet. A little drizzle of olive oil goes a long way in giving them a lovely coat. Now, for the pièce de résistance, sprinkle some coarse sea salt over the top. It not only elevates the flavor but also gives a delightful crunch. Pop them in the oven and roast until they're tender yet crisp, with hints of golden brown at the tips. The result? A dish that's vibrant in color, rich in flavor, and just a touch fancy.

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