Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake

Name: Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g fresh spinach, chopped; 250g ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 100g grated mozzarella cheese; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 sheets of puff pastry

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake as a comforting weekend dish that never fails to please. The blend of creamy ricotta with fresh spinach creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that my family adores. It's easy to whip up, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it's baking is absolutely irresistible. Whether served as a main or a side, this recipe brings everyone together around the table, making it a staple in our household for Sunday dinners.

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:24:39.326Z

Creating the perfect Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake has been a rewarding journey for me. I experimented with various cheeses and herbs, settling on a combination that enhances the dish’s flavor profile without overwhelming it. I discovered that incorporating a hint of nutmeg elevates the creaminess of the ricotta and complements the earthiness of the spinach wonderfully.

One key tip I learned is to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach before mixing it into the ricotta. This prevents the bake from becoming watery and ensures it retains a delightful texture. Trust me, this small step can make a world of difference in the final outcome!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta paired with vibrant spinach for a delightful contrast
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekends
A versatile dish that can serve as a main or side, perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a flavorful Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake lies in the quality of its ingredients. Fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also offers a subtle earthy flavor that complements the creamy ricotta. I recommend using whole-milk ricotta for its rich texture, which makes the filling luscious and creamy. If you have to use part-skim ricotta, consider mixing in a tablespoon of cream or sour cream to enhance the richness.

The choice of cheeses also plays a vital role. Mozzarella melts beautifully, providing a gooey texture, while the sharpness of Parmesan adds depth. If you're looking to reduce dairy, you can substitute the ricotta with silken tofu blended until smooth, along with a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Assembly and Baking Tips

When assembling the bake, ensure the puff pastry is rolled out evenly to avoid uneven cooking. It's crucial to keep the edges sealed well; use a fork to crimp them down, which not only looks appealing but also helps keep the filling from leaking out during baking. If you notice the edges start to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center cooks through.

For a golden crust, brush the top with an egg wash made from a beaten egg mixed with a splash of water. This adds a beautiful glaze and helps the pastry develop a crispy texture. If you want to experiment, sprinkle some sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking for added flavor and crunch.

Ingredients

400g fresh spinach, chopped
250g ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
100g grated mozzarella cheese
50g grated Parmesan cheese
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
4 sheets of puff pastry

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Sauté the spinach

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they soften. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.

Mix the filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, eggs, mozzarella, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed spinach until well mixed.

Assemble the bake

Roll out the puff pastry sheets and line a baking dish with half of them. Pour the spinach and ricotta mixture over the pastry. Cover with the remaining pastry sheets and seal the edges.

Bake the dish

Cut slits in the top pastry to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve and enjoy

Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or herbs like basil for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

This Spinach and Ricotta Bake can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for meal prep. Once assembled, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Before baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. To bake straight from frozen, add an additional 15-20 minutes to the cooking time at the same temperature.

When reheating leftovers, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and cover the bake with foil to prevent the pastry from burning while allowing the center to warm thoroughly. It typically takes about 20-25 minutes to heat through. Alternatively, you can cut the portions and reheat them in the microwave, but be aware that this might make the pastry less crispy.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile; serve it hot from the oven as a main course or cut it into smaller pieces for a delightful appetizer. To elevate the dish, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving, which adds a lovely burst of freshness. A side salad with a vinaigrette can complement the richness of the bake, balancing the flavors beautifully.

For those looking to incorporate more protein, you can pair the bake with grilled chicken or salmon. Alternatively, serve it alongside a hearty lentil or bean salad for a vegetarian option. The blend of flavors will please even the most discerning palates at your Sunday dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

It's delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and bake it fresh the next day. Just remember to cover it well in the fridge.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this bake is vegetarian-friendly and packed with nutrients from the spinach and cheeses.