Penne and Spinach Pasta Bake with Blue Cheese is a comforting yet vibrant dish that combines the richness of blue cheese with the earthiness of spinach, creating a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe, designed to serve four, comes together effortlessly in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 200 grams frozen spinach
- 85 grams blue cheese, crumbled
- 250 grams mascarpone cheese
- 25 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 420.5
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5.4g
- Cholesterol: 21.3mg
- Sodium: 429.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 70.3g
- Fiber: 10.9g
- Sugar: 0.6g
- Protein: 15.2g
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Start by preheating your oven’s grill function for later use.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cooking the Pasta and Spinach:
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 10-12 minutes, or until al dente.
- During the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add the frozen spinach to the boiling water with the pasta.
- Drain the pasta and spinach well, ensuring most of the water is removed.
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Assembling the Bake:
- Transfer the drained pasta and spinach to a shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese evenly over the pasta mixture.
- If desired, add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Adding the Mascarpone:
- Spoon dollops of mascarpone cheese over the pasta and blue cheese mixture. Distribute evenly to ensure every bite has a creamy touch.
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Grilling the Dish:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish.
- Place the baking dish under the preheated grill for about 5 minutes, or until the top turns a golden brown and the cheeses are melted and bubbly.
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Serving:
- Once the pasta bake is beautifully browned and bubbling, remove it from the oven.
- Serve hot, garnished with grilled tomatoes on the side for extra flavor, and a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Cook’s Tips:
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Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of blue cheese to find your preferred flavor profile. Gorgonzola or Roquefort can be excellent substitutes depending on your taste.
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Customization: Feel free to add cooked chicken, bacon, or mushrooms for a heartier version. Adjust seasoning and spice levels according to your preference.
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Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Penne and Spinach Pasta Bake with Blue Cheese is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe promises to satisfy with its creamy texture and bold flavors. Enjoy the culinary journey of preparing and sharing this delightful pasta bake with your loved ones!
