Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe
When you’re craving something cozy, hearty, and deliciously cheesy, this Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake is your go-to recipe. Made with tender pasta, sautéed spinach, and layers of gooey cheese, it’s a satisfying vegetarian dish that everyone at the table will love—even the picky eaters.
Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a meatless Monday, or a freezer-friendly meal prep session, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy comfort in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake
- 🧀 Ultra cheesy and creamy
- 🌿 Packed with spinach for a sneaky veggie boost
- ⏱️ 30-minute prep and oven-ready
- ❄️ Perfect for freezing or making ahead
- 🍽️ Vegetarian and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients for Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5–6 cups fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese (or sub with more ricotta)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Add-ins:
- Chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- Mushrooms
- Artichoke hearts
- Crumbled feta
- Cooked chicken or sausage (for non-vegetarian version)
How to Make Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package directions). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds). Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully drained and squeezed dry.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, combine ricotta, cottage cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Stir in the sautéed spinach.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta and cheese-spinach mixture until evenly coated.
Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake It
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
Step 6: Serve
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or extra Parmesan.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Pasta Bake
- Don’t overcook your pasta—it continues cooking in the oven.
- Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery bake.
- Add a splash of milk or cream to the cheese mix for extra creaminess.
- Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping if desired.
Storage & Meal Prep
- To store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To freeze: Assemble the pasta bake, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
- To reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Delicious Variations
- Three-Cheese Pasta Bake: Use mozzarella, fontina, and gouda
- Greek-Inspired: Add feta, olives, and oregano
- Protein Boost: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage
- Low-Carb Swap: Sub pasta with cooked cauliflower or zucchini noodles
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the moisture. Too much water will make the dish soggy.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy texture. You can chop the spinach finely if they’re not fans of leafy greens.
Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the dish and refrigerate (uncooked) up to 24 hours in advance. Add 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, ziti, rigatoni, or fusilli holds the cheese mixture well and bakes beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach and Cheese Pasta Bake is a simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that feels like a warm hug in a casserole dish. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in greens while enjoying the cheesy goodness of a baked pasta dinner.
Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this vegetarian pasta bake is sure to be a repeat favorite.
