Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake

If you’ve been looking for the perfect dish to serve at your next brunch, look no further! This Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake is the answer to all your brunch prayers. Imagine a cozy, flavorful casserole that combines fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and a handful of eggs, all baked together to create a dish that’s hearty, savory, and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that makes your whole house smell like a little slice of heaven. Trust me, this is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a lazy weekend brunch, this bake is incredibly versatile. It’s great for meal prep, easy to make, and even better to enjoy the next day for leftovers (if there are any!). Packed with flavor and texture, it’s a dish that everyone will rave about. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake

This recipe isn’t just about throwing a bunch of ingredients together; it’s about creating something special that everyone will love. Here’s why this Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake is a must-try:

Simple Yet Delicious
With just a few basic ingredients, you can create something extraordinary. The creamy ricotta and fresh spinach blend together so beautifully, it’s like they were meant to be!

Brunch or Anytime
While this dish is perfect for brunch, it works just as well for a light dinner or a make-ahead breakfast. It’s flexible and can be served hot or at room temperature.

Vegetarian-Friendly
This bake is meat-free, making it a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.

Comforting and Filling
It’s hearty without feeling heavy. The combination of eggs and ricotta makes it satisfying, and the spinach adds a fresh, savory pop.

Make-Ahead Magic
Prep this bake ahead of time, pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and voilà—brunch is served. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your guests’ company.

Ingredients in Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

For the Brunch Bake:

• Fresh Spinach – The base of this dish! The spinach wilts down perfectly and adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Ricotta Cheese – Creamy, mild, and delicious, ricotta gives the bake a smooth, velvety texture.
• Eggs – These hold everything together and give the dish a satisfying, fluffy texture.
• Milk or Cream – Helps to make the bake extra creamy and rich.
• Parmesan Cheese – For a salty, savory kick and a touch of depth.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic adds so much flavor and makes the kitchen smell amazing as it bakes.
• Fresh Herbs – You can use thyme, basil, or parsley to add a fragrant, herbal note.
• Salt and Pepper – To season everything perfectly.

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded Mozzarella – For a melty, gooey topping.
• Crumbled Feta – A tangy alternative to mozzarella, if you like a little extra bite.
• Chopped Sun-Dried Tomatoes – For a burst of tangy flavor.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create a show-stopping brunch bake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bake cooks evenly and gets nice and golden on top.

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then, add the spinach in batches, stirring until it wilts down completely. Once the spinach is cooked, remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta cheese, milk (or cream), parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be the creamy base of your bake, so whisk it until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Spinach and Egg Mixture

Once the spinach has cooled enough to handle, add it to the egg mixture. Stir in any fresh herbs you’re using—thyme, basil, or parsley work beautifully here. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or any equivalent size) with cooking spray or butter. Pour the spinach and ricotta mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Optional Toppings

If you’re adding shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta on top, sprinkle it over the surface now. You can also top with a few extra herbs for added freshness and flavor.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once your Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake is done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares or servings. Serve it warm, and enjoy the cozy, savory deliciousness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake

This brunch bake pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are a few ways to serve it:

• Crisp Green Salad – A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the bake.
• Fresh Fruit – Serve with a side of mixed fresh fruit for a pop of sweetness.
• Toasty Bread – A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette to scoop up the creamy bake is always a hit.
• Avocado Slices – For a creamy, fresh touch, serve slices of ripe avocado on the side.

Additional Tips

• Add More Veggies – Feel free to toss in other veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to make this bake even heartier.
• Use Frozen Spinach – If you’re short on fresh spinach, frozen spinach works just as well. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture after thawing.
• Make-Ahead Option – You can prepare this dish the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day for a stress-free brunch.
• Customize the Cheese – If you prefer a different cheese, swap the ricotta for cottage cheese or cream cheese for a unique twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free – This bake is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A1: Yes! Frozen spinach works great in this dish. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.

Q2: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can assemble the bake the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh the next day for an easy brunch.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this bake?
A3: Yes! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or even artichokes. Just sauté them with the spinach for the best results.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again.

Q5: Can I freeze this bake?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the bake! Once it’s fully cooked and cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake is everything you need in a brunch dish—fluffy, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or just looking for a cozy meal to enjoy at home, this bake will definitely hit the spot. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and downright delicious. Enjoy every bite!

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