Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy, comforting dish that brings vibrant greens to your table without any fuss, the Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This casserole combines fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and a delightful crispy topping, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a nourishing, colorful side or a light main that balances taste and health beautifully. Plus, it’s wonderfully adaptable for weeknight dinners or special occasions, making it a go-to in my kitchen whenever I want a dish that feels both homey and a little special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the fresh spinach adding brightness and color, to the cheeses which create that luscious creaminess we all crave in a casserole.

• 4 cups Fresh Spinach: Roughly chopped, it delivers fresh, earthy flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
• 1 cup Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy, mild richness that balances the spinach perfectly.
• 2 large Eggs: Serve as the binding agent, giving the casserole structure while keeping it soft.
• 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese: Grated, it provides a nutty depth and helps form a beautiful crust when baked.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced garlic contributes a subtle punch of aroma and savory taste.
• 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed to bring sweetness and depth to the casserole.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Perfect for sautéing the onions and garlic, enhancing their flavor without heaviness.
• Salt: To taste, seasoning the mixture and enhancing all flavors.
• Pepper: To taste, adding just the right amount of mild heat.
• 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top, they bake into a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts the creamy interior.

How to Make Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which ensures it’s hot enough to give the casserole a golden, crispy top while keeping the inside creamy and luscious.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion. Cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. This step softens the onion and releases its natural sweetness, which is the flavor foundation of the casserole.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Garlic wakes up the taste buds here, layering in a subtle sharpness that complements the spinach beautifully.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, around 3 to 4 minutes. This softens the spinach, reduces its volume, and concentrates its fresh, green flavors. Once done, remove the pan from heat and let it cool slightly so it’s easier to handle in the next step.

Step 5: Combine the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, blend ricotta cheese, eggs, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. This mixture provides the rich, velvety texture that makes the casserole so satisfying.

Step 6: Season and Mix

Season the cheese blend with salt and pepper to your liking. Then gently fold in the cooled spinach and sautéed onion mixture, combining everything evenly without breaking the spinach too much.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, smoothing out the surface with a spatula. This helps the casserole bake evenly and look inviting once it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Step 8: Add Breadcrumb Topping

Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole. This topping will bake into a crisp, golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is set. The baking melts the cheese perfectly and melds all the flavors into one irresistible dish.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time allows everything to set up and makes it much easier to serve.

How to Serve Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or a few fresh herb leaves like basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A light drizzle of olive oil can also add a lovely sheen once the casserole is plated.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs delightfully with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside quinoa salad or a crisp, refreshing side of tomato and cucumber slices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style meal, bake the casserole in a shallow dish so everyone can dig in with a serving spoon. To impress guests, plate individual portions on warm plates with a simple lemon wedge for a little zing on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. The casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe after baking. Wrap them well in foil and place in a freezer-safe container; it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or heat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot all the way through, usually about 15-20 minutes. The breadcrumb topping will crisp up again nicely in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible before using to avoid a soggy casserole. The flavor will remain delicious.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the ricotta and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives, but expect a slight difference in texture and flavor. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy note.

Can this dish be made vegan?

To make it vegan, replace the ricotta with a plant-based cheese spread, use a flax or chia egg in place of the eggs, and select vegan breadcrumbs. The result will be tasty, though different in consistency.

How do I make the breadcrumb topping extra crunchy?

Try mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling on top. This extra fat helps the topping crisp up beautifully.

What can I add to make it heartier?

Add cooked quinoa, lentils, or even some sautéed mushrooms to the mixture before baking. This will increase texture and make the casserole more filling.

Final Thoughts

The Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying while being so quick and easy to put together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just dipping your toes into cooking, this recipe invites you to enjoy a comforting, nutritious meal with minimal effort. Give it a try soon and watch how quickly it becomes a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!

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