If you’re on the lookout for a brunch dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines fresh greens, creamy cheeses, and a perfect blend of herbs and spices baked together to golden perfection. Every bite offers a luscious melody of flavors and textures that make it more than just a meal — it’s a celebration in your kitchen that your friends and family will be asking for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this dish is wonderfully straightforward. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s building creamy richness, balancing savory notes, or adding beautiful color and texture to your brunch bake.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and adding a subtle fruitiness to the base.
- Small onion, diced: Brings a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor when softened.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, fragrant kick that elevates the entire bake.
- Fresh spinach, chopped: Adds vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly earthy note.
- Ricotta cheese: Gives the dish a creamy, light texture and mild tanginess.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating gooey pockets of cheesy goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty bite that deepens the flavor profile.
- Large eggs: Acts as the binder that holds the bake together with a fluffy texture.
- Milk: Lightens the mixture for a tender, custardy finish.
- Dried oregano: Infuses a Mediterranean herbaceous aroma that complements the cheeses.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the richness.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice and warmth.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a subtle, smoky heat kick.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): Provides a crispy, golden topping that adds satisfying crunch.
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional): Delivers a fragrant burst of freshness on top.
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). While that warms up, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil or a nonstick spray so your brunch bake won’t stick and will come out easily after baking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Spinach
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook gently for about 3-4 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until you can smell its irresistible aroma. Finally, add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s just wilted. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach mixture cool slightly — this is key so it doesn’t scramble the eggs later.
Step 3: Whisk Together Cheeses, Eggs, and Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, eggs, milk, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like that little extra heat. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well-blended, the backbone of your delicious brunch bake.
Step 4: Combine Spinach Mixture with Cheese-Egg Mixture
Gently fold the slightly cooled spinach mixture into your cheese and egg mixture. Be careful to mix it thoroughly but gently, making sure every bite will be bursting with flavor and perfectly balanced in texture.
Step 5: Pour and Top for Baking
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for consistent baking. If you want to add a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the surface. This added layer will give your brunch bake a delightful contrast of crusty and creamy.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll want to see a gorgeous golden brown top, and the center should be firmly set without any jiggle. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out clean when your bake is perfect.
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set fully and makes slicing easier. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a fresh pop of color and flavor right before serving. Now your Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds an incredible fresh note that balances the richness of the cheeses. A light drizzle of a good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also take your presentation and flavor to the next level.
Side Dishes
This brunch bake pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without overpowering. Think crispy bacon, toasted rustic bread, or a fresh fruit salad for a touch of sweetness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the creamy texture of the bake perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe in the baking dish itself for a rustic, cozy vibe, or portion it out onto individual plates for a more elegant brunch setting. You could also cut smaller squares and serve them as part of a brunch buffet — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that keeps the flavors consistent and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s ready to grab for a quick breakfast or light lunch, just covered and chilled.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this delicious brunch bake later, it freezes beautifully. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place portions in freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months without losing its lovely texture and flavor.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, reheat your Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make it a bit watery, so the oven is always your best bet to restore that wonderful baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach with frozen, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible to keep the bake from becoming watery. The flavors will still be delicious and the texture creamy.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat or animal rennet cheeses. You can keep it as is, making it a perfect brunch option for vegetarians.
Can I add other vegetables to the bake?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed and added along with the spinach for extra texture and nutrition. Just be mindful to cook them well beforehand to reduce moisture.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, cottage cheese (preferably blended until smooth) or cream cheese can be used as alternatives, though the texture and flavor will change slightly, becoming creamier or richer.
How spicy is the red pepper flakes option?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that you can control by how much you include. It’s optional and mild enough not to overpower, perfect if you like just a hint of spice in your brunch bake.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe truly brings comfort and elegance to your brunch table without fuss or complicated steps. Once you make it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a favorite—it’s flavorful, hearty, and wonderfully versatile. Go ahead and try it for your next breakfast or brunch gathering; you’re going to love how easy it is to make and how much everyone enjoys each unforgettable bite.
Print
Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and hearty spinach ricotta brunch bake featuring a creamy blend of cheeses, fresh spinach, and eggs, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this savory casserole combines tender sautéed spinach and aromatic herbs for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Dairy & Eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix cheeses and eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheeses, eggs, milk, oregano, salt, black pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine spinach and cheese mixture: Fold the cooled spinach mixture into the cheese and egg mixture gently until evenly incorporated.
- Prepare to bake: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top to add a crisp texture once baked.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm for a flavorful and nutritious brunch or breakfast option.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, omit breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, well-drained, if fresh is unavailable.
- This bake can be prepared a day ahead and reheated before serving.
- Try adding other herbs like thyme or basil for a flavor variation.
- To add protein, consider incorporating cooked sausage or bacon.
