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:
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10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed & drained)
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15 oz ricotta cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 large egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish (8×8-inch or similar).
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Prepare spinach:
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If using fresh spinach, wilt it in a pan over medium heat (or microwave for 2 mins), then squeeze out excess water.
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If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain well (squeeze out liquid).
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Mix filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Fold in spinach.
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Assemble: Spread mixture into the baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella.
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Bake: 25–30 mins until bubbly and golden on top.
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Serve: Let cool slightly. Enjoy warm with marinara sauce if desired!
Variations:
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Add sautéed mushrooms or artichokes for extra flavor.
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Swap ricotta for cottage cheese (blended smooth).
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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! 😊🧀🍃
