Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake

Name: Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Pastry Magic

I love to delight my family with hearty, comforting meals, and this Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake has become a beloved favorite. It’s an easy, yet impressive dish that brings together the creaminess of ricotta and the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a beautiful bake that's perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a cozy dinner. Trust me, once you serve this dish, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:19:15.415Z

When I first decided to make the Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake, I was looking for a way to use up some fresh spinach I had on hand. The combination of ricotta and spinach turned out to be a match made in heaven. I also experimented with adding a hint of nutmeg, which elevated the whole dish and gave it a warmth that was simply irresistible.

One important tip I discovered is to make sure to drain the spinach well before mixing it with the ricotta. Excess moisture can make the bake too soggy, and nobody likes a soggy dish! This technique ensures the perfect texture, allowing every bite to be as delightful as the last.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta blended with fresh spinach for a delicious, nutritious meal.
Perfectly crispy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
Flexible recipe that allows for the addition of other vegetables or cheeses.

      

Perfecting the Spinach and Ricotta Bake

When mixing the filling for this bake, ensure that the spinach is well-chopped and not overly wet. Excess moisture from the spinach can lead to a soggy texture in the final dish. I recommend using a salad spinner or patting the spinach dry with a paper towel after washing it. This step will enhance the bake's overall consistency and help maintain that delightful crisp top layer.

The choice of ricotta cheese significantly impacts the final flavor and creaminess of the dish. Opt for fresh, whole milk ricotta for a richer taste and creamier texture. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim ricotta can be used, though it may yield a dryer filling. Combining different cheeses like cottage cheese or feta can also add a new dimension to the flavor profile.

Breadcrumbs: The Key to a Crispy Top

For the breadcrumbs, I suggest using seasoned breadcrumbs to infuse extra flavor into the dish. If you have plain breadcrumbs, consider adding dried herbs or spices like oregano or Italian seasoning to complement the spinach and cheese. Ensure you drizzle enough olive oil on top to facilitate that golden brown color, which not only looks appealing but also enhances the crunchiness of the bake.

If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can easily substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. This will keep the texture intact while catering to dietary needs. Alternatively, you can layer thinly sliced potatoes on top for a different crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start preparing the dish.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 large eggs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Following these steps will help you create a delicious bake in no time.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the filling.

Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, eggs, Parmesan, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Pour the spinach and ricotta mixture into the dish.

Add Breadcrumbs

Evenly sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mixture. Drizzle with olive oil for added crunch.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.

Cool and Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm.

This bake can be served as a main dish or a side, and it pairs perfectly with a crisp salad.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Spinach and Ricotta Bake can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can assemble the dish up to one day ahead, covering it with plastic wrap and storing it in the refrigerator. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature; this ensures even cooking.

Leftover bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the crispy top, reheating for about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving is quick but may result in a softer top layer, so it's better for emergencies.

Serving Suggestions

This bake stands strong on its own, but you can elevate your brunch table by serving it alongside a light salad with a citrus vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing cuts through the creaminess and adds balance. You can also offer a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side for an additional creamy element.

For a heartier meal, pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a simple tomato sauce drizzled over the top. As for pairing drinks, a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the bake wonderfully, enhancing your overall dining experience without overpowering the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly and makes a great option for meatless meals.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the bake after it's cooled. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

→ What can I serve with the spinach and ricotta bake?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.