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: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Occasion Cooking

I love making this Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake because it’s the perfect way to elevate my weekend brunch. The richness of the creamy spinach combined with vibrant tomatoes makes for a delightful dish that satisfies everyone at the table. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, allowing me more time to relax and enjoy with family and friends. This recipe has become a staple in our home, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:01:34.706Z

Making this bake was an experiment that turned out beautifully! I started by sautéing fresh spinach with garlic, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was simply irresistible. Then, I added diced tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor. I learned that reducing the moisture from the tomatoes before combining everything ensures a creamy texture instead of a watery bake.

What I really appreciate about this dish is its flexibility. You can easily swap the spinach for kale or add different cheeses to change the flavor profile. Each time I make it, I try to incorporate a new twist, which keeps the dish exciting and allows for endless creativity.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness that warms your heart.
Fresh flavors combined with the savory bite of garlic.
A versatile dish that suits any brunch table or dinner occasion.

Mastering the Creamy Texture

To achieve that luxurious creamy texture, be sure to use full-fat ricotta cheese. This type of ricotta will not only provide a rich mouthfeel but will also hold up well during baking, creating a wonderful contrast to the tender vegetables. If you're aiming for a lighter option, consider substituting half of the ricotta with Greek yogurt, which will still give creaminess while adding a touch of tanginess.

Another technique to enhance the creaminess is to ensure that you evenly combine the cheese mixture with the sautéed vegetables. A rubber spatula works best for this, as it allows you to fold the mixture gently without breaking down the tomatoes or spinach too much, preserving their structure and integrity.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

For those looking to elevate the dish even further, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes will provide a delightful kick without overwhelming the dish's overall profile. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme; these can be mixed in just before baking, lending a fresh, aromatic quality to each bite.

If you're interested in protein additions, consider folding in some cooked chicken or sausage after sautéing the vegetables. This will provide a heartier meal that can serve as a fulfilling main course, and the savory notes will beautifully complement the creamy base.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Once you have all of your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Here’s how to make the Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine and Season

Stir in the cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3–5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Create the Creamy Mixture

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Combine it with the sautéed vegetables, ensuring everything is well incorporated.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, topping it with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the bake is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad!

Your Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake is now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or toasted pine nuts before serving. This adds a lovely crunch and enhances the taste!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy weekends. Assemble the dish in a baking dish without baking it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, which will help maintain the creamy texture without making it dry.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your dish is too watery after baking, it could be due to excess moisture from the tomatoes or spinach. To avoid this, you can sauté the tomatoes separately for a couple of minutes before adding them to the mixture, allowing some of their juice to evaporate. Additionally, sprinkling a little extra grated Parmesan above the mozzarella can help absorb moisture while adding a lovely flavor layer.

Should the top of your bake not brown as you’d like, turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it during this stage, as it can burn quickly. You want just enough time for the cheese to bubble and develop golden edges without overcooking the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works too! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese if you prefer, but ricotta provides a unique creaminess that complements the dish well.

→ Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is fully vegetarian, making it perfect for various dietary preferences.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave as needed.