Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake
Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort Plates
I absolutely love starting my day with something hearty and nutritious, and this Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake is my go-to recipe. It combines creamy ricotta with fresh spinach and fluffy eggs, creating a delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The best part? It comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time, making busy mornings a breeze. I can’t resist its vibrant colors and satisfying flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy greens at the start of my day.
When I first tried making the Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake, I was amazed by how simple and delicious it turned out. The combination of ricotta and spinach creates a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the eggs, making it a delightful morning meal. Using fresh spinach not only brightens the dish but also amps up the nutritional value, ensuring I start my day on a healthy note.
One great tip I discovered is to let the bake cool slightly before cutting it into portions. This helps the layers set a little better and makes it easier to serve. I love to top it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving for an added flavor boost!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy ricotta adds a luscious texture that’s hard to resist
- Packed with fresh spinach for a nutritional boost
- Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat on busy mornings
Perfecting the Bake
Baking time is crucial when creating the ideal texture for your Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake. Aim for 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The goal is for the edges to be golden and the center to be just set. Keep an eye on it towards the end; overbaking will lead to a dry texture, which you definitely want to avoid. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to allow the inside to continue cooking without darkening the surface further.
A common issue when baking custard-like dishes is the risk of the eggs curdling. This can often happen if the ingredients are mixed too roughly or baked at too high a temperature. To prevent this, mix your ingredients gently and ensure everything is at room temperature before combining. If time permits, letting the ricotta and eggs sit out for about twenty minutes can help achieve a smoother mix.
Ingredient Insights
The ricotta cheese in this recipe serves not just as a creamy base but also adds a subtle richness that complements the spinach beautifully. Opt for whole milk ricotta for a more indulgent flavor, or use part-skim for a lighter version. If ricotta is not available, you can substitute cottage cheese, but be sure to blend it first for a smoother consistency.
Using fresh spinach over frozen is essential for this dish to maximize flavor and texture. Fresh spinach retains its vibrant color and provides a mild taste that doesn't overpower the dish. If using frozen, make sure to thoroughly thaw and drain it to prevent excess water from making the bake soggy.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake:
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying breakfast option for any day of the week!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Sauté spinach
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
Mix ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and the sautéed spinach. Mix until well-blended.
Transfer to baking dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Optionally, top with halved cherry tomatoes.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the egg is set and the top is slightly golden.
Cool and serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm!
Enjoy your delicious Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake as a nourishing start to your day!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in your favorite herbs or spices. This dish can also be customized with different cheeses or veggies, depending on your preferences.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake can be prepared ahead of time, which is perfect for busy mornings. You can assemble the mixture the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven while you get ready, and enjoy a freshly baked breakfast in about thirty minutes.
If you're looking to store leftovers, allow the bake to cool completely before portioning it into airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen. Cut into portions, wrap each tightly, and store in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it heats through thoroughly.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Pair your Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake with a simple side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal. I love serving it with sliced avocado on the side for a creamy contrast. It also makes for a lovely brunch centerpiece. For guests, consider presenting it directly in the baking dish for a rustic feel.
For a flavor twist, try adding herbs like fresh basil or dill to the mixture before baking. You could also mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to customize according to your taste preferences. Want a bit of heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños can elevate the flavor profile deliciously.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this breakfast bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this breakfast bake freezes well. Just wrap individual portions tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This bake pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a brunch spread.
→ Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor and texture.
Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake
I absolutely love starting my day with something hearty and nutritious, and this Ricotta Spinach Breakfast Bake is my go-to recipe. It combines creamy ricotta with fresh spinach and fluffy eggs, creating a delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The best part? It comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time, making busy mornings a breeze. I can’t resist its vibrant colors and satisfying flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy greens at the start of my day.
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Homestyle Comfort Plates
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and the sautéed spinach. Mix until well-blended.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Optionally, top with halved cherry tomatoes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the egg is set and the top is slightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in your favorite herbs or spices. This dish can also be customized with different cheeses or veggies, depending on your preferences.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g