Cheesy Italian Spinach Bake

This Cheesy Italian Spinach Bake is a delicious, comforting dish packed with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh spinach—perfect as a side or a vegetarian main! Here’s how to make it:

Cheesy Italian Spinach Bake

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed & drained)

• 15 oz ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish (8×8-inch or similar).

2. Prepare spinach:

   • If using fresh spinach, wilt it in a pan over medium heat (or microwave for 2 mins), then squeeze out excess water.

   • If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain well (squeeze out liquid).

3. Mix filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Fold in spinach.

4. Assemble: Spread mixture into the baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella.

5. Bake: 25–30 mins until bubbly and golden on top.

6. Serve: Let cool slightly. Enjoy warm with marinara sauce if desired!

Variations:

• Add sautéed mushrooms or artichokes for extra flavor.

• Swap ricotta for cottage cheese (blended smooth).

• Make it meaty by layering in cooked Italian sausage or ground beef.

This cheesy, savory bake is great with garlic bread or a fresh salad. Let me know if you’d like any tweaks! 😊🧀🍃