Baked Rigatoni with Spinach and Cheese

Baked Rigatoni with Spinach and Cheese

Ingredients:

– 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups fresh spinach
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. **Make the Sauce:**
– In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
– Stir in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. **Add Spinach:**
– Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

5. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.

6. **Assemble the Dish:**
– Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

7. **Bake the Pasta:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your cheesy and creamy baked rigatoni with spinach! This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner.