BAKED PENNE WITH SPINACH AND SUN-DRIED TOMATOES

BAKED PENNE WITH SPINACH AND SUN-DRIED TOMATOES image

Categories Dinner

Yield 4 plates

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 15-ounce can or half of a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
kosher salt and black pepper
12 ounces penne (3/4 box)
1 5-ounce package baby spinach
8 ounces mozzarella, grated (about 2 cups)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (about 1/2 ounce)
green salad, for serving

Steps:

Heat oven to 400° F. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes. Cut up the whole tomatoes in the can with scissors or crush by hand. Add to the saucepan with the vinegar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt. Cook the penne for half the package directions' recommended time. Add the spinach to the sauce and cook, stirring, until it begins to wilt, about 1 minute. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine. Place half the pasta mixture in an 8-inch square baking dish and sprinkle with 1 cup of the mozzarella. Top with the remaining pasta and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan. Place the baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until bubbling and beginning to brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with the salad (if desired).