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
Scale
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.
