Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Ideas

I love spending lazy Sunday afternoons in the kitchen, and one of my favorite recipes to whip up is this creamy spinach tomato bake. It’s a comforting dish that combines fresh spinach, ripe tomatoes, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce. The best part is that it comes together quickly, making it perfect for those days when you want something indulgent without spending hours preparing. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, and I can’t resist going back for seconds (or thirds!).

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:38:35.800Z

During my quest to create the ultimate comfort food, I stumbled upon the idea of a creamy spinach and tomato bake. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how the creamy texture complements the freshness of the spinach and the tanginess of the tomatoes. The dish not only looks vibrant on the table but also warms the soul with every spoonful. I quickly discovered that using fresh ingredients elevates the dish, making it a favorite in my home.

One tip I found to be crucial is to sauté the spinach and tomatoes briefly before adding them to the mixture. This step helps concentrate their flavors and prevents excess moisture from making the bake soggy. I often experiment with different cheese combinations, but a blend of mozzarella and parmesan consistently delivers that irresistible, gooey texture everyone loves.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies every craving
Vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any Sunday gathering

      

Tips for Perfecting Your Bake

To achieve the best results with your creamy spinach tomato bake, ensure your spinach is sautéed just until it wilts. Overcooking can lead to excess moisture, making it less enjoyable. You want the spinach to retain its vibrant color and nutrients, adding a beautiful touch to the dish while providing a satisfying texture.

When combining ingredients, make sure to blend them thoroughly. This ensures an even distribution of the cheese and vegetables, offering a flavorful experience in every bite. I also recommend using a spatula to gently fold the ingredients rather than stirring aggressively, as this helps maintain the light and fluffy texture of the ricotta.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role. The ricotta cheese adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness, while the mozzarella brings stretchiness and melty goodness. Parmesan provides a nutty flavor that balances the richness, making each bite more complex. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan if possible; it melts and incorporates better than pre-grated options, ensuring a smooth finish on top.

When selecting tomatoes, look for ripe, juicy varieties like Roma or vine-ripened for the best flavor. If you only have access to canned tomatoes, drain them well before adding to avoid excess liquid. This tip helps maintain the desired creamy consistency of the bake.

Ingredients

For Spinach Tomato Bake

4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Steps to Prepare

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Cook Spinach and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Add chopped spinach and diced tomatoes, cooking until spinach is wilted and tomatoes are slightly softened. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and the sautéed spinach and tomato mixture. Stir until well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy spinach tomato bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or some toasted pine nuts for crunch. This dish can also be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy spinach tomato bake can be a delightful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, showcasing its versatility. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light, citrusy salad to complement the richness of the bake. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil would pair beautifully.

If you want to add a bit of spice, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes on top before baking. This adds a lovely heat that contrasts well with the creaminess of the cheeses. Alternatively, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors significantly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can assemble the spinach and tomato mixture and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time on the day of serving but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, this bake can be frozen before the baking step. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and it will hold its quality for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing it in.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

This creamy bake pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or as a side dish for grilled chicken.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free except for any bread servings. Just ensure there's no gluten in your selected products.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the bake ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.