When it comes to a comforting yet sophisticated dish to brighten up your weekend mornings, nothing beats the Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe. This delightful casserole brings together creamy ricotta, tender spinach, and a blend of cheeses baked to golden perfection, delivering a flavorful, protein-packed meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a leisurely brunch with friends or a cozy solo treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in crafting that perfect balance of creamy texture, vibrant color, and savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 small onion (diced): Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Boosts the savory depth with its fragrant punch.
- 5 oz fresh spinach (chopped): Offers a bright, healthy green and a tender texture once cooked.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Delivers creamy richness and moisture to the bake.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor for depth.
- 6 large eggs: The binding agent that holds everything together and gives the bake protein power.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the mixture and ensures a silky consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spice to balance the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional): A warm, subtle spice that elevates the spinach and cheese combination beautifully.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates a bubbly, golden topping that’s irresistible.
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional): Fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness when serving.
How to Make Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepping Your Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures a non-stick surface so your bake will slide out effortlessly after baking. Heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for a quick 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Cooking the Spinach
Add the chopped fresh spinach to your skillet, and cook it until it wilts down, just 2 to 3 minutes. This step reduces excess moisture and concentrates flavor. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly so it won’t scramble the eggs later.
Step 3: Combining the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together six eggs, 1/4 cup milk, salt, pepper, and the optional nutmeg until well blended. This egg mixture is the heart that binds the Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe together. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and the cooled sautéed spinach mixture, creating a creamy, savory filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Pour the combined mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top in an even layer — this will melt into a bubbly, golden crust that’s pure bliss. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the center is set and the surface is lightly golden. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to help the flavors settle.
How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely fresh contrast, brightening the creamy, cheesy richness of the bake. These herbs not only enhance the visual appeal but provide an herbaceous kick with every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this brunch bake with crisp toast or flaky croissants to scoop up every bit of cheesy goodness. For a fresh counterpoint, serve alongside a mixed berry salad or a fruit platter—the sweet-tart notes beautifully balance the savory egg bake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking this recipe in individual ramekins for personalized servings, perfect for a brunch party or easy portion control. You can also turn it into a layered dish by adding sautéed mushrooms or cooked bacon between layers for an extra flavor boost. This Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe shows up beautifully in any presentation, impressing every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover bake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an easy, delicious option for busy mornings.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn and retain texture upon thawing.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, reheat in a microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to maintain that delightful baked texture with a melty top.
FAQs
Can I make the Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe vegan?
You can adapt the recipe by substituting ricotta with a plant-based alternative and using non-dairy milk. Replace eggs with a flaxseed or chickpea flour batter, though the texture will differ from the traditional bake.
Is it possible to use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well but be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to avoid a watery bake.
How do I know when the bake is done?
The bake is perfectly cooked when the center is set and no longer jiggly, and the top is a light golden color. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed with the onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
What can I serve with this for a complete brunch?
This dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, crispy bacon, or a green salad for a balanced and satisfying brunch spread.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe enough if you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal that feels special but is so easy to prepare. It’s full of wholesome ingredients that blend beautifully into a luscious breakfast or brunch dish everyone will love. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite weekend tradition!
Print
Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and hearty Spinach Ricotta Brunch Bake combining fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and a blend of cheeses baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a wholesome breakfast or brunch, this easy-to-make casserole offers a comforting flavor with options for customization.
Ingredients
Vegetables and aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
Dairy and eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté aromatics and spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, around 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix the egg and cheese mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg until well combined. Fold in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and the cooled sautéed spinach mixture thoroughly.
- Assemble the bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese uniformly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is fully set and the top turns lightly golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Prepare this bake the night before and refrigerate to bake fresh in the morning.
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and variation.
- Pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or toast for a complete brunch meal.
