Florentine Spaghetti Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of spinach, garlic, and a creamy cheese sauce with tender spaghetti. This baked pasta dish is inspired by the classic Florentine style, which traditionally features spinach and a luscious white sauce. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The golden, bubbly cheese on top adds a delightful texture, making every bite creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. This dish is sure to become a family favorite, offering a satisfying way to enjoy both pasta and greens in one delightful bake.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 10 oz fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Spinach Mixture:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach) to the skillet and cook until wilted and most of the moisture has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes. If using fresh spinach, you may need to work in batches.
- Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Cheeses:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and the heavy cream.
- Stir in the lightly beaten egg, then fold in the cooked spinach mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese and spinach mixture, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil, if desired.
Enjoy your Florentine Spaghetti Bake, a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
