1/4cuppancetta, diced or sliced (or bacon, or omit for vegetarian)
2clovesgarlic, diced
1/8 teaspoonred pepper flakes
5 oz.baby spinach, about 7 cups
22-24oz.jarred marinara sauce
1/4cupfresh basil leaves, chopped, or about 1 Tablespoon dried basil leaves
1cupshredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
Salt and freshly ground pepper
For topping:
1/4-1/3cupshredded mozzarella cheese
1/4cupParmesan or Pecorino, grated
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Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt generously, then add the orecchiette to cook. Cook until al dente, then use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to transfer to the skillet with the sauce.
Preheat oven to 350F (regular bake/not fan-assisted.)
If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, make it on the stovetop in any skillet, then transfer the finished mixture to any oven-safe dish, top with cheese, then bake.
Heat a bit of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta (or bacon) and cook, stirring, until browned. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, 30-45 seconds (*don't let the garlic scorch!). Add the spinach to the skillet and stir or toss in the skillet until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Add the marinara sauce and stir to combine. *Taste the sauce at this point and add additional salt and some freshly ground pepper. Proper seasoning will really bring out the flavours!
When the pasta is cooked to al dente, transfer to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat well. Stir in the shredded mozzarella until well combined.
Top with additional shredded mozzarella and Parmesan (*Tip! I like to add the mozzarella for the topping in 3 or 4 mounds, rather than evenly scattering. It makes a nice puddle of cheese as it bakes!).
Bake pasta in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly. Let rest a few minutes, then serve garnished with additional torn basil leaves.
If making ahead, allow to cool to lukewarm, then cover tightly and refrigerate. To re-warm, you can microwave in plastic wrap-covered bowls or reheat the whole skillet, covered with aluminum foil, in a 350F oven until warmed through.
Notes
Be sure to read the Ingredient Notes above this Recipe Card for more information on ingredient options and substitutions. You'll also find Step-by-Step photos there, that you might find helpful.