STEP 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the rigatoni pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven later. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.

STEP 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Once the onion and garlic are softened, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts down. If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

STEP 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Heat the mixture until it begins to simmer but not boil. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese (reserving 1/2 cup for topping), and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Add the nutmeg and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce for a touch of warmth and complexity. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

STEP 4: Combine the Pasta, Spinach, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, sautéed spinach and onion, and the creamy cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together, making sure each piece of pasta is coated with the sauce. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.

STEP 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

STEP 6: Bake the Pasta

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and bubble on top.

STEP 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the pasta bake is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve the Creamy Spinach & Rigatoni Bake hot, and enjoy!