Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting, delicious, and nutritious side dish that is also incredibly easy to prepare, this Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe is everything you need. Packed with fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and a golden Parmesan breadcrumb topping, this casserole brings together flavors and textures that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a perfect way to enjoy leafy greens in a rich, satisfying casserole form that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe uses straightforward ingredients you likely have on hand or can easily find at the grocery store. Each element plays a vital role, from the fresh spinach providing a healthy base and vibrant green color, to the cheeses adding creaminess and a savory punch, plus garlic and onion to deepen the flavors.

• 4 cups Fresh Spinach: Roughly chopped, it forms the healthy and flavorful base of the casserole.
• 1 cup Ricotta Cheese: Adds a luscious creamy texture that balances the spinach perfectly.
• 2 large Eggs: Act as a natural binder to hold all the ingredients together beautifully.
• 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan deepens the flavor and creates that irresistible crust.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced for a fragrant, savory note that elevates the whole dish.
• 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed to bring subtle sweetness and richness.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Perfect for sautéing the onion and garlic without overpowering flavors.
• Salt: To season carefully and bring out the natural flavors.
• Pepper: Adds a mild heat that complements the creamy texture.
• 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, golden finish that contrasts the creamy interior.

How to Make Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole will cook evenly and develop that perfect golden crust by the time it’s ready to enjoy.

Step 2: Sauté Onion

Warm up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. This step builds the base flavor that will infuse the entire casserole.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about one minute, until its aroma fills the kitchen. This brief step prevents the garlic from burning while letting its savory essence shine.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Add the roughly chopped spinach into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir frequently until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. This softens the spinach and blends the flavors seamlessly.

Step 5: Cool the Mixture

Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the spinach mixture to cool slightly. Cooling makes it easier to handle for the next step and helps prevent the eggs from scrambling.

Step 6: Mix Cheeses and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, and grated Parmesan. Stir this mixture until it is creamy and smooth, creating a rich foundation that will hold the casserole together.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper to your liking in the cheese mixture, seasoning it perfectly to enhance every flavor without overpowering the freshness of the spinach.

Step 8: Combine Spinach with Cheese Mixture

Gently fold the wilted spinach, onion, and garlic mixture into the cheesy base. Mixing carefully ensures each bite will be packed with that wonderful balance of creamy and green goodness.

Step 9: Prepare for Baking

Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then transfer your casserole mixture into it. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer, helping it bake uniformly.

Step 10: Add Breadcrumb Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This step is the secret to achieving the delightful crunch and golden color that makes this dish truly special.

Step 11: Bake

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is set firm but still moist inside.

Step 12: Cool and Serve

After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This brief cooling period makes slicing easier and allows the flavors to settle so each portion is perfect on the plate.

How to Serve Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the casserole visually and add a fresh, herby contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy base.

Side Dishes

This casserole complements a variety of mains wonderfully. Think roasted chicken, baked fish, or even a slab of grilled steak. Light and crispy salads or roasted vegetables also make fantastic accompaniments, balancing the creamy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing option, serve the casserole in small ramekins for individual portions. You can also layer it in a glass dish with other sautéed veggies or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a stunning presentation that feels a little extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover any leftover casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully without losing its creamy texture.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, this casserole freezes well. Place it in an airtight container, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers or a thawed casserole, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the topping regains its crunch. Microwaving is quick but may soften the breadcrumb topping.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Is there a good substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or even cream cheese as a richer alternative, but ricotta’s light and fluffy texture is ideal for this recipe.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Try using silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast in place of cheese, and replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute. You can also use vegan cheese and breadcrumbs.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be sautéed and folded in with the spinach to add extra flavor and texture.

What texture should the casserole have when fully cooked?

It should be creamy and set, not runny, with a golden, slightly crunchy breadcrumb topping. It holds its shape when sliced but remains moist inside.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe truly feels like a little culinary treasure — quick to make, wonderfully tasty, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just yourself, I hope you give this delightful dish a try and make it your new go-to comfort food. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate spinach in a cozy, cheesy, irresistible form you’ll want to make again and again.

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