Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake

Name: Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake whenever I want something healthy yet delicious. The flavors blend so well, and the creamy texture is irresistible. Zucchini and spinach are a match made in heaven, and baking them together enhances their natural sweetness. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any fresh veggies from my garden. With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation process, this dish quickly became a family favorite that we enjoy on busy weeknights or serve at gatherings.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:52:05.974Z

When I first made this Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such a satisfying dish. I experimented with different herbs and spices, finally settling on a blend that really brings out the best in the zucchini and spinach. One tip I picked up along the way is to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach after cooking it; this prevents the bake from becoming too watery.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with nutritious vegetables and great flavor
Creamy and cheesy goodness that satisfies hunger
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or potlucks

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake plays a significant role in creating its delicious flavor and creamy texture. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan not only adds richness but also contributes to the satisfying mouthfeel that makes this dish so comforting. Ricotta offers creaminess, while mozzarella gives that desirable stretch when melted, and Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth. Together, they create a cohesive blend that enhances the vegetables' natural flavors.

Choosing fresh ingredients, especially the zucchini and spinach, can elevate the dish's taste. Look for firm zucchinis with shiny skin, indicating freshness. If you happen to have garden-fresh produce, I recommend using them right away for the best flavor. Meanwhile, fresh spinach—preferably from a local market or your garden—will provide a vibrant color and a tender texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Tips for Perfecting Your Bake

Achieving the perfect texture in this bake relies on not overcooking the zucchini. Slicing them too thin may result in excess moisture being released, potentially making the dish soggy. Stick to medium slices (about 1/4 inch thick) to maintain a better structure and allow for even cooking without becoming mushy. Layering them thoughtfully in the baking dish also helps prevent excess moisture from pooling in the final dish.

The baking time can vary based on your oven's calibration. If your bake isn't bubbling and golden after 30 minutes, give it an additional 5-10 minutes while keeping a close eye to prevent burning. A golden top indicates that the cheeses have melted and created a lovely crust, sealing in the flavors. My secret tip? Broil it for a minute or two at the end for that extra touch of crispiness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful dish:

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to check your pantry for these staples!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your bake:

Prepare the Zucchini and Spinach

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini and chopped spinach. Set aside.

Mix the Cheese and Seasoning

In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese with the minced garlic, eggs, oregano, and season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Bake

Layer the zucchini and spinach mixture in a baking dish, followed by the cheese mixture. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

Enjoy your deliciously baked dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This bake can easily be customized with other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms as well.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Zucchini Spinach Bake makes a fantastic side dish at any gathering or a hearty main course when paired with a fresh green salad. I often enjoy it with a simple vinaigrette or alongside grilled chicken for a more complete meal. If you're looking for a little crunch, consider serving it with some toasted bread or a sprinkle of pine nuts on top just before serving.

For a versatile meal prep option, you can cut this dish into squares after it has cooled and store it in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheating is simple—just pop it in the microwave for a quick meal, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, great news! You can assemble the entire bake, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping it into the oven to ensure even cooking. It can also be frozen after baking; cool it completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap to safeguard against freezer burn.

To reheat after freezing, it’s best to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it back up. This ensures even reheating throughout the dish. When you're ready to enjoy it, heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and the top is bubbly again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the excess water before adding it to the mixture.

→ What can I serve it with?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or can be enjoyed as a main dish on its own.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.