Creamy Spinach and Mortadella Pasta Bake

Spinach Pasta Bake (Pasticcio di Pasta con gli Spinaci)

This hearty and flavorful pasta dish is a perfect combination of creamy cheese, savory mortadella, and fresh spinach, all baked to perfection. The recipe is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Spinach Pasta Bake (Pasticcio di Pasta con gli Spinaci) will become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Recipe Category: Main Course
Servings: 8

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach
   In a non-stick skillet, heat 30g of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic clove and sauté until golden, infusing the oil with flavor. Add the spinach, which has been washed and drained. Cover the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts down. Remove the garlic and finely chop the spinach.

2. Prepare the Mortadella and Caciocavallo
   Cut the mortadella into strips, then into small cubes. Do the same with the caciocavallo cheese. Set both the mortadella and caciocavallo aside for later.

3. Make the Grana Padano Cream Sauce
   In a high-sided saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Whisk continuously as the butter melts to form a roux. Allow the butter to cook for a minute until it turns a light golden color. Gradually add the warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and slowly add the grated Grana Padano cheese, whisking constantly to form a thick, lump-free sauce. The consistency should be quite thick – when you scoop some out with a spoon, it should not immediately fall back into the pan but stay slightly mounded.

4. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne rigate and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and place it in a large mixing bowl.

5. Assemble the Dish
   Pour the Grana Padano cream sauce over the cooked pasta and stir to combine. Add the chopped mortadella and mix well. Lightly grease a 30×20 cm (12×8 inch) baking dish with extra virgin olive oil. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with extra Grana Padano cheese for added flavor and a beautiful golden crust.

6. Bake
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) if using a static oven, or 180°C (350°F) for a convection oven. Bake the pasta for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. If using a convection oven, reduce the baking time to 10-15 minutes.

7. Serve
   Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This pasta bake is perfect for a family meal or as part of a larger gathering.

Tips for the Perfect Spinach Pasta Bake

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down much better and provides a richer flavor compared to frozen spinach.
• Customize the Cheese: You can use a mix of different cheeses to suit your taste. Try adding some mozzarella for extra meltiness or a touch of ricotta for creaminess.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance, then bake it just before serving. This makes it a great option for a stress-free meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Leave out the mortadella and replace it with more vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This Spinach Pasta Bake is the perfect blend of comforting pasta, creamy cheese, and savory meats. The richness of the Grana Padano sauce paired with the spinach creates a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy any crowd. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a special occasion, this recipe promises to deliver both flavor and satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy!