Italian Spinach Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Italian Spinach Bake is a comforting and cheesy dish perfect for any meal. Loaded with fresh spinach and a blend of creamy cheeses, it’s an easy way to enjoy a flavorful, wholesome side or main course.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Step 2: Sauté fresh spinach in a skillet over medium heat until wilted, about 3 minutes. Drain any excess liquid.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella (reserve some for topping), Parmesan, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
4. Step 4: Fold the wilted spinach into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
5. Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the reserved mozzarella evenly on top.
6. Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the bake is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use frozen spinach when fresh isn’t available—just be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess water before mixing.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
• For a richer dish, substitute half the ricotta with cream cheese.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Yes, kale or Swiss chard work well as substitutes, but be sure to cook and drain them thoroughly before mixing.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Italian Spinach Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 132 reviews

• Author: Rafael
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Italian Spinach Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole featuring fresh sautéed spinach blended with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a comforting and flavorful vegetarian dish perfect as a side or light main course.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 4 cups fresh spinach

Cheeses

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve some for topping)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Other Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the fresh spinach for about 3 minutes until wilted. Then drain any excess liquid thoroughly to avoid a soggy bake.
3. Mix Cheeses and Seasoning: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella (keeping some aside for topping), grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully blended.
4. Combine Spinach and Cheese Mixture: Fold the sautéed spinach into the cheese mixture carefully to distribute it evenly throughout the blend.
5. Prepare for Baking: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved shredded mozzarella evenly on top to create a golden crust as it bakes.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: After baking, let the dish cool slightly to set before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach after sautéing to prevent excess moisture in the bake.
• You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but ensure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry.
• This dish can be served as a side or a light vegetarian main course.
• For a richer flavor, add a dash of nutmeg to the cheese mixture.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Spinach Bake, Italian Spinach Casserole, Cheesy Spinach Dish, Vegetarian Spinach Recipe, Baked Spinach Casserole