Spinach Ricotta Veggie Bake

Name: Spinach Ricotta Veggie Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, etc.), diced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Balanced Collection

I absolutely love whipping up this Spinach Ricotta Veggie Bake when I want a comforting yet nutritious dish. The layers of spinach, creamy ricotta, and zesty marinara create a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal with friends and family. Plus, the smell wafting through the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. In just a little over an hour, you can serve a dish that not only looks impressive but also feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-21T22:09:34.663Z

When I first tried making a vegetable bake, it was a spontaneous decision born from a fridge full of odds and ends. I decided to combine spinach, ricotta, and a few other veggies, and the result was a delightful surprise! The creamy ricotta melds beautifully with sautéed vegetables, creating layers of flavor that are both rich and satisfying.

One secret I uncovered during my kitchen experiments is to let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen and the layers to set, making each slice a deliciously cohesive bite. Trust me, the extra patience is worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta perfectly complements the earthy spinach
The vibrant colors make it visually appealing for any table
It's an easy way to sneak more vegetables into your diet

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

For a truly vibrant Spinach Ricotta Veggie Bake, opt for fresh spinach. Frozen spinach works in a pinch, but it often contains excess water that can make your bake soggy. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well before incorporating it into the dish. Additionally, using whole milk ricotta offers a creamier texture compared to part-skim options, enhancing the overall richness of the bake.

Consider the mix of vegetables in this recipe. While zucchini and bell peppers are classic choices, you can easily swap them for other favorites like mushrooms or asparagus. Just ensure that all vegetables are roughly the same size for even cooking. If you enjoy a bit of heat, diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper can be great additions to elevate the dish's flavor.

Layering Techniques

When layering your Spinach Ricotta Veggie Bake, be mindful of how you distribute the ingredients. Aim for an even spread of ricotta and marinara to ensure no dry patches remain. Spoon dollops of ricotta rather than spreading it entirely across the layer; this allows portions to melt uniformly during baking, creating pockets of creamy goodness throughout the dish.

As you build the layers, the sequence matters too. Starting with marinara helps to prevent the bottom layer from scorching while also infusing moisture into the bake. Additionally, finish with mozzarella to achieve that beautiful, gooey top that is both visually appealing and delicious. Keep an eye on the bake in the last few minutes; broiling briefly can add an appealing golden top if the cheese isn't browning to your liking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Main Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, etc.), diced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Spinach Ricotta Veggie Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened. Add the mixed vegetables and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Layer the Bake

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Add half of the sautéed vegetable mixture, dollop half of the ricotta on top, then sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with marinara and mozzarella on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture for a bit of heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare since it's so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed throughout, about 20 minutes. For an extra crispy top, you can uncover the dish during the last 5 minutes of reheating.

For longer storage, this veggie bake freezes beautifully. Slice it into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, following the same method as above.

Serving Suggestions

This Spinach Ricotta Veggie Bake is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. I often serve it alongside a light vinaigrette salad to balance out the richness of the cheese. The contrasting textures enhance the dining experience.

For a heartier meal, consider serving it with grilled chicken or a protein of your choice. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed as a side dish. Consider placing it on a buffet table with other Italian-inspired dishes, as its vibrant colors and fresh flavors will stand out beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire dish in advance and bake it just before serving. It stores well in the fridge for up to two days.

→ What kind of vegetables can I use?

You can use any vegetables you have on hand! Broccoli, carrots, or even eggplant work well in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure that your marinara sauce is gluten-free and you’re good to go.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain the spinach well to avoid excess moisture in the bake.