Delicious Baked Ziti with Shrimp and Spinach Recipe

Oh, let me tell you about this baked ziti with shrimp and spinach. It’s one of those cozy dishes that just wraps you in warmth… you know? The creamy cheese sauce melds together with the sautéed shrimp and fresh spinach, creating a burst of flavors that’s just so comforting. When it bubbles away in the oven, the whole house fills up with this delightful smell that makes everyone gather around the kitchen, impatiently waiting. It’s not just a meal; it’s like a hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or a casual get-together with friends.

Why You’ll Crave It

• Combines the best of both worlds—pasta and seafood, yum!
• Super creamy with just the right amount of cheese… it honestly feels indulgent!
• Loaded with nutrients from the spinach, so you can feel a little bit good about it!
• Perfect for batch cooking—great leftovers for lunch or dinner.
• So easy to throw together, but it looks fancy; impress your guests without breaking a sweat!

My family fights over the last scoop… it’s seriously that good!

What You’ll Need

• Ziti pasta: about 12 ounces, cooked just until al dente because we’ll bake it later
• Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined—there’s something so special about shrimp in this
• Fresh spinach: 4 cups, because it wilts down and blends beautifully
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons to sauté those delicious flavors
• Garlic: 3 cloves minced, it adds a lovely aromatic punch!
• Crushed red pepper flakes: just a pinch—adds a tiny kick without overwhelming
• Heavy cream: 1 cup for that luscious, creamy texture
• Marinara sauce: 2 cups, your favorite jarred kind will work just fine here
• Ricotta cheese: 15 ounces, creamy and dreamy
• Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded, because we need that gooey melty layer on top
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup to sprinkle in for that salty, sharp finish
• Salt and pepper: to taste, always important!
• Fresh basil: for garnish, if you’re feeling fancy!

Easy How-To

Getting Started

First thing’s first—let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). You want it nice and hot because we’re baking this beauty soon. Now, grab a large pot and boil some salted water. Toss in your ziti, and cook it until it’s just al dente. Follow the package instructions, but don’t overcook it… it needs to hold up in the oven later! Drain the pasta and set it aside while you… oh, I don’t know, take a sip of tea or something.

Shrimp and Spinach Salsa

In a big skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it on medium. Toss in the shrimp—sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn that gorgeous pink color. Once they’re ready, take them out and set them aside. Now, pour in the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, and then add the spinach. Cook it until it wilts down, which is only gonna take about 2 or 3 minutes. The aroma, oh my… just wait!

Mixing it All Together

Alright, grab a large bowl and let’s combine all the goodness. Toss in the cooked pasta, those beautiful shrimp, and the wilted spinach, along with 2 cups of marinara sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese… mix, mix, mix, until everything is coated nicely. Then, transfer this colorful mixture into a greased baking dish—spread it out evenly, like you’re smoothing out your favorite blanket. Now, sprinkle the rest of that mozzarella on top.

Baking Magic

Time to bake! Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it work its magic for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful bubbly, golden cheese on top. And oh man, the smell… it should be heavenly.

Garnish it Up

Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This is key—allow it to set a little! Garnish with some fresh basil if you want to fancy it up, and then dig in. I promise, it’s gonna be worth it!

Good to Know

• If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen is totally fine. Just thaw it out first.
• Feel free to toss in extra veggies—bell peppers or zucchini would be fantastic.
• This dish is perfect for leftovers; just pop it in the fridge and reheat!

Serving Ideas

• Pair it with a simple side salad for a nice balance—maybe a light vinaigrette?

Top Tricks

• Don’t forget to drain that pasta properly! You want it ready to soak up all that sauce in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can mix it up—just adjust the cooking time based on whatever pasta you select. Just remember your al dente!

Can I prepare the dish in advance?

Yes! You can assemble it the day before and keep it in the fridge. Just add a bit of baking time if it’s cold going in!

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Sure thing! Just skip the shrimp and load it up with more veggies—like mushrooms or bell peppers. It’ll still be delicious!

What can I use instead of spinach?

Kale works great too, though keep an eye on the cooking times. Swiss chard is another delicious alternative!

How should I store leftovers?

Just pop them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll keep for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it in the oven for the best texture!

Conclusion

This baked ziti with shrimp and spinach is truly a delightful dish, isn’t it? It combines comforting pasta with fresh seafood and vibrant greens, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a relaxed night with friends. The way those creamy flavors blend together—oh man, it’s just right! So go ahead, give this a try. I promise, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

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