Description
Spinach Parmesan Casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish made with fresh spinach, ricotta, Parmesan and eggs, then finished with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but feels special enough to serve alongside a family dinner or holiday spread.
Ingredients
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish and set it aside.
2. Place the chopped spinach in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach has wilted.
3. Allow the spinach to cool slightly, then squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
4. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, eggs, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
5. Fold the cooked spinach into the cheese mixture. Stir gently until the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the filling.
6. Spread the spinach and Parmesan mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the surface with the back of a spoon.
7. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, olive oil and optional Parmesan cheese. Mix until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated with the oil.
8. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the spinach and Parmesan filling.
9. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the casserole is hot and set in the centre and the breadcrumb topping is golden and crisp.
10. Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and a little extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Squeeze the cooked spinach thoroughly after it cools slightly to remove excess moisture and help prevent a watery casserole.
Let the casserole rest briefly after baking so the centre can settle before serving.
Spread the breadcrumbs evenly across the surface for a consistent golden, crispy topping.
Watch the casserole during the final minutes because the breadcrumb topping can brown quickly.
Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder version.
If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before adding it to the cheese mixture.
The casserole can be baked without breadcrumbs, although the breadcrumbs provide the crispy topping.
Optional grated Parmesan can be added to the breadcrumb mixture for extra savoury flavour.
Serve with roasted chicken, baked fish, grilled meat or roasted vegetables.
For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad, crusty bread or other vegetable dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American