Tired of the same old movie night snacks? Craving something warm, comforting, and utterly delicious that's perfect for sharing? Then look no further! This Creamy Tomato & Spinach Pasta Bake is the ultimate movie night meal – easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to please everyone gathered around the screen. It’s a perfect blend of healthy and hearty, making it a fantastic choice for a quick dinner idea or a relaxed weekend meal. Get ready to elevate your movie night experience with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, easily adaptable for a larger or smaller crowd.
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to package directions. Make sure it's al dente – slightly firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a delicious base for the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This slow simmering develops a richer, more complex tomato sauce.
Step 4: Incorporate Spinach and Cream
Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach into the tomato sauce. Then, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings as needed – a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the chopped fresh basil and, if desired, top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Cooking Tips for a Delicious Dish:
- For a richer flavor, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Meat Lovers Delight: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Twist: Add roasted vegetables like eggplant or butternut squash for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary slightly based on ingredients and serving size. This recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. Consider using a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis based on your specific ingredients.
This Creamy Tomato & Spinach Pasta Bake is more than just a recipe; it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for those cozy movie nights. Enjoy!