Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

If you are looking for a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that comes together with ease, you will absolutely love this Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe. It brings together fresh, vibrant spinach with creamy ricotta and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese, all baked to perfection under a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole delivers both nutrition and satisfying taste with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes whenever you crave something wholesome and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe plays a vital role, whether it’s adding creaminess, texture, or vibrant flavors—each one is simple but essential to make the dish shine on your plate.

• 4 cups Fresh Spinach: Use roughly chopped spinach to keep the texture fresh and bright in the casserole.
• 1 cup Ricotta Cheese: This brings a wonderfully creamy, smooth base to complement the spinach.
• 2 large Eggs: Act as the perfect binding agent to hold all the ingredients together during baking.
• 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese: Grated for a sharp, savory flavor and to help form a lovely crust.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant, savory undertone that elevates the dish.
• 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed until translucent to soften and sweeten the flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Used for sautéing to add richness and help soften the onion and garlic.
• Salt and Pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to perfectly balance and enhance all the flavors.
• 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top to create that irresistible, crunchy golden finish.

How to Make Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and ready to go once your casserole is assembled. This upfront step guarantees even baking from the moment the dish hits the oven.

Step 2: Sauté Onions to Sweet Perfection

Warm your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them gently until they turn translucent and soft—about 5 minutes. This slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness, which creates a tasty base for your casserole.

Step 3: Add Garlic for Aromatic Depth

Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for one more minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen and layer in that classic savory flavor that pairs beautifully with spinach.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir continuously as it wilts down over 3-4 minutes. This step reduces the spinach volume and intensifies its earthy flavor while blending nicely with onion and garlic.

Step 5: Cool the Spinach Mixture

Remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach mixture cool just enough so it doesn’t scramble the eggs in the next step. This ensures a smooth, combined texture when mixed.

Step 6: Combine Cheeses and Eggs

In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, eggs, and grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and smooth. This luscious combination will bind everything together and add creamy richness to the casserole.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Sprinkle salt and pepper into your cheese mixture, stirring gently to bring out the full range of flavors. Season carefully—you want the spinach and cheese to shine perfectly balanced.

Step 8: Incorporate the Spinach Mixture

Add the slightly cooled spinach, onion, and garlic blend to your ricotta and egg mixture. Stir gently to combine everything evenly without losing any of the creaminess or delicate texture.

Step 9: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to smooth the top, ensuring even baking and a beautiful presentation.

Step 10: Add the Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly across the top of the casserole. This layer will bake into a golden, crunchy crust, adding just the right amount of texture contrast.

Step 11: Bake Until Golden and Set

Place your dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The casserole should be set in the middle and boast a golden brown, crisp topping that looks incredibly inviting.

Step 12: Rest Before Serving

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes once it’s out of the oven. This brief rest allows it to firm up slightly and makes slicing and serving a breeze.

How to Serve Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

This spinach casserole is lovely on its own but can be elevated with fresh garnishes. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese to add color and a hint of freshness that complements its baked, cheesy essence.

Side Dishes

Pairing this casserole with simple side dishes like a crisp, lemony garden salad or roasted cherry tomatoes brightens the meal and provides refreshing contrasts that balance the richness of the spinach and cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or muffin tins for perfect single portions. This presentation makes it feel special and is great for entertaining or lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, making your next meal just as delightful.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or store it in a freezer-safe container to preserve freshness and prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to bring back that crispy topping. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the breadcrumbs, so oven reheating is preferred for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Fresh spinach tends to work best for optimal texture and flavor in this Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe.

Is it possible to substitute ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese, but expect a slightly different texture and flavor. Ricotta provides a mild, creamy consistency that’s perfect for this casserole.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian friendly?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian as long as you use vegetarian Parmesan cheese. Always check the label to ensure it doesn’t contain animal rennet if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be great additions. Just be sure to cook them beforehand to remove excess moisture so your casserole stays firm.

What can I serve with the Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe for a full meal?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted fish, or a hearty grain like quinoa or wild rice. Fresh salads or light soups also complement the richness of the casserole nicely.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Simple Baked Spinach Casserole Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Simple to make, bursting with flavor, and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for any day of the week. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved part of your meal rotation; I promise it will bring smiles to anyone lucky enough to share it with you!

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