This Tomato and Spinach Pasta Bake is a fantastic budget friendly dinner recipe, perfect for a satisfying and easy meal. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, offering comfort without a hefty price tag. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a delicious dish in a pinch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or fusilli works. Whole wheat pasta is a good alternative.
- Canned Tomatoes: Crushed or diced tomatoes are fine. For extra flavor, use fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach is best, but frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) can be used.
- Cheese: Mozzarella is classic; cheddar or a blend also work well.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic offers the best flavor. Garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) short pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Tools Needed: Large pot, oven-safe baking dish, large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente (slightly firm). Drain it well and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Combine with Spinach and Pasta
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh spinach a handful at a time; it will wilt quickly into the hot sauce. Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Bake the Pasta
Transfer the pasta mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. This is a delightful budget friendly dinner recipe.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you wish, and enjoy your delicious budget friendly dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
- Stir in a spoonful of pesto for a different flavor profile.
- Use different types of cheese for the topping, like ricotta dollops or Parmesan.
- Include other vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrients.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Tomato and Spinach Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or cover the baking dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, ziti, or cavatappi work well as they hold the sauce nicely.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the sauce.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pasta in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I make this budget friendly dinner recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini when you sauté the onion. This is a very adaptable budget friendly dinner recipe.