Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a savory, comforting dish that combines fresh greens and luscious cheese in one delightful bake, the Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish is a beautiful symphony of creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and tender spinach, all enveloped in a rich egg custard that bakes to golden perfection. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying to eat, and perfect for gathering around the table with friends or family on a relaxed weekend morning. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to that’s as delicious as it is nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the aromatic onion and garlic to the trio of cheeses and fresh spinach, every component works in harmony to create that signature creamy yet hearty bite.

• Olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic, bringing out their sweetness without overpowering the dish.
• Small onion, diced: Adds a mild, slightly sweet foundation to the bake’s flavor profile.
• Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a subtle warmth and depth that wakes up the other ingredients.
• Fresh spinach, chopped (4 cups): The star green providing vibrant color, nutrients, and a mild earthiness.
• Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Offers a creamy, smooth texture that keeps the bake luxuriously moist.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully to add gooey richness throughout the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Contributes a nutty, salty punch enhancing the overall savoriness.
• Large eggs (6): The binding agent that holds everything together, creating a custard-like consistency.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the mixture so it’s fluffy and silky when baked.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the spinach and cheeses perfectly.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential to bring out all the natural flavors.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just a gentle kick to balance the creaminess.
• Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a touch of heat to brighten the flavors.
• Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for a satisfying crunchy finish.
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional): Brings a fresh, herbaceous brightness to the final presentation.

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil or a nonstick spray. This initial prep ensures the bake doesn’t stick and helps create a beautifully golden crust around the edges.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onions. Sauté them gently for 3-4 minutes until they turn soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds—just enough to release its fragrant aroma without burning.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Add your chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes. The leaves will quickly wilt down, concentrating their flavor and reducing their volume. Once the spinach is soft and vibrant, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly before mixing.

Step 4: Combine Cheeses, Eggs, and Seasonings

In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, milk, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re including a bit of spice. This mixture will form the creamy custard base of your brunch bake, packed with rich flavor and perfect texture.

Step 5: Incorporate the Spinach Mixture

Gently fold the sautéed spinach and onion mixture into your cheese and egg blend. Stir just enough to combine everything uniformly without crushing the spinach too much—you want those bursts of green and texture throughout the bake.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Topping

Pour the mixture into your prepared dish and spread it evenly. For a delightful crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the surface—this step is optional but highly recommended for that irresistible golden topping.

Step 7: Bake Until Set and Golden

Place your pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You are looking for a beautiful golden-brown top and a firm, set center. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean with no raw egg mixture clinging.

Step 8: Cool and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let your Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps it set fully and makes slicing easier. If you like, add a fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for a splash of color and flavor.

Step 9: Serve Warm and Enjoy!

Slice it up and serve warm—a comforting and satisfying dish that works equally well for brunch, breakfast, or a light dinner. The combination of creamy cheeses, tender spinach, and herbs makes this bake a total crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a vibrant green pop and subtle herbal brightness that complements the richness of the bake perfectly. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. Try serving it alongside a simple mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted cherry tomatoes that bring a sweet acidity. For a heartier meal, crusty bread or garlic toast is excellent to mop up every last bit.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming and elegant presentation. You could also layer this bake on top of toasted English muffins or bagels for a playful open-faced sandwich. Add a dollop of pesto or sun-dried tomato spread on the side for an unexpected burst of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This makes it super convenient for next-day breakfasts or snacks.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for later, you can freeze the baked dish. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer individual slices to freezer-safe containers. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option for quicker reheating, but it may slightly soften the crisp topping. Either way, it’s deliciously satisfying served warm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach but be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible to avoid a soggy bake.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

The main dish is gluten-free if you skip the optional breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always double-check your cheese and seasoning labels to be sure.

Can I add other vegetables to the bake?

Absolutely! Feel free to stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.

How can I make this bake spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for more heat. You can also serve it with spicy hot sauce on the side.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese can work as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different. For a richer flavor, mascarpone or cream cheese can also be tried.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to make, impressively tasty, and wonderfully versatile, fitting into any weekend brunch or cozy breakfast routine. I encourage you to dive in, gather your ingredients, and try this delightful bake that promises plenty of smiles around your table. Happy baking and bon appétit!

Print