Description
A delicious and comforting Cheesy Italian Spinach Bake featuring fresh spinach combined with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This recipe makes a perfect side dish or vegetarian main course that’s flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 pounds fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to prepare for baking the spinach mixture.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook spinach: Gradually add the fresh spinach in batches to the skillet. Cook each batch until wilted before adding more, ensuring the spinach evenly wilts and reduces in volume. Once all spinach is wilted, drain any excess liquid thoroughly and allow it to cool slightly to avoid curdling the cheese mixture.
- Prepare cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the lightly beaten eggs. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if desired. Add red pepper flakes optionally for a mild heat. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Combine and assemble: Fold the cooled, drained spinach into the cheese mixture gently to preserve texture. Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle ¼ cup breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy, golden crust after baking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Bake until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly around the edges, signaling it is thoroughly cooked and hot.
Notes
- Ensure spinach is well-drained after cooking to avoid a watery bake.
- You can substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a slightly different texture.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a pleasant crunch and golden color.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil or parsley in the cheese mixture.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or as a side to grilled meats or pasta.
