Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake

Name: Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love this Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake! It’s a delightful, wholesome dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with the nutritious goodness of spinach. The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it not just a side dish, but a star at the dinner table. I enjoy preparing this bake as a way to sneak in veggies, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when I need something hearty yet quick. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular feature in your meal rotation.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:19:20.462Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining zucchini and spinach in a bake, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The result was a pleasant surprise! I carefully layered the vegetables with a creamy mixture and topped it with cheese, watching it turn golden in the oven. The fragrance was simply irresistible.

This dish not only tastes great but also provides a satisfying way to enjoy vegetables. I recommend using fresh spinach for a vibrant color and flavor. Plus, it can be adapted with different cheeses based on what I have on hand. It’s truly a versatile recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A wonderful balance of flavors with fresh zucchini and spinach
Creamy and cheesy texture that delights your senses
A versatile dish that can be served as a main or side

      

Layering for Flavor

The layering technique in this Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake is essential for achieving an even distribution of flavors and textures. Start with a thin layer of zucchini at the base, ensuring that it’s not overcrowded. This allows the zucchini to roast properly, encouraging a tender and juicy bite. As you build each layer, press down gently to create compact layers, which help the bake hold together when sliced and served.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider lightly salting the zucchini slices and letting them sit for about 10 minutes before assembly. This draws out excess moisture, preventing the dish from becoming watery. After patting the zucchini dry with a paper towel, you’re ready to layer, ensuring a perfect marriage of flavors and textures.

Cheese Selection Tips

The choice of cheese can significantly alter the flavor and texture of your bake. Ricotta offers a creamy base that binds the ingredients together, while mozzarella provides a stretchy, gooey top layer that creates that irresistible cheese pull. For added depth, consider mixing in some crumbled feta or a dollop of cream cheese into the ricotta for a tangy twist.

Parmesan adds a sharp nuttiness, so don’t shy away from generously sprinkling it on top before the final bake. This creates a beautifully browned crust that contrasts delightfully with the creamy interior. If you prefer a dairy-free option, using cashew cream in place of ricotta and vegan cheeses can work beautifully without compromising on flavor.

Storage and Reheating

This dish is great for meal prep! Once cooled, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often meld beautifully as it sits, making leftovers just as enjoyable. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They should keep well for up to three months.

When reheating, it's best to do so in the oven to maintain that delightful texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed throughout and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also use the microwave for convenience but expect a slightly softer texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

These ingredients come together to create a beautiful bake that is sure to impress!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake.

Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Sauté the Spinach

In a skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the ricotta, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir in the sautéed spinach and mix well.

Layer the Bake

In the prepared baking dish, start with a layer of zucchini slices. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini, then repeat the layers. Finish with a final layer of zucchini and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

Serve

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness!

Enjoy your freshly baked dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some herbs like basil or thyme to the cheese mixture. You can also use other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to customize your bake!

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to experiment with vegetables beyond zucchini and spinach! For instance, adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even kale can boost both flavor and nutrition. If you're looking to keep the recipe lighter, consider using less cheese or swapping out whole milk ricotta for a low-fat version. Alternatively, adding spices like smoked paprika or red chili flakes can give the dish a delicious kick.

For those watching their carbohydrate intake, spiralizing the zucchini instead of slicing can create a fun noodle-like texture. This not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds an extra layer of creativity to the meal. Just ensure to sauté the spirals briefly to remove excess moisture before layering.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake can be served as a standalone dish or paired with a crisp salad for a balanced meal. A light vinaigrette or a lemony dressing complements the rich flavors beautifully. You can also enjoy it as a filling side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish, where its creamy texture acts as a comforting counterpoint to protein.

For a rustic touch, serve the bake alongside crusty bread or garlic knots. These add an enjoyable crunch and soak up the delightful cheesy goodness left on the plate. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving can elevate the dish with a fresh burst of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the mix.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I serve this with?

This zucchini spinach bake pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Certainly! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a different flavor profile.