Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love my Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake because it brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the vibrant freshness of spinach into a comforting dish that’s perfect for brunch. This recipe not only tantalizes my taste buds but also fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma. Every time I prepare it, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can create something so satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover spinach and mushrooms sitting in the fridge. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your weekend routine.
When I first made the Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors mingled together. I experimented with different cheeses, and after a few tries, I found that a blend of mozzarella and feta gave the best results. The mozzarella melts beautifully, while the feta adds a tangy bite that elevates the dish.
A key tip I've discovered is to sauté the mushrooms until they're nicely browned before mixing them with the spinach. This step enhances their umami flavor and prevents the dish from becoming watery. Trust me, this small adjustment makes all the difference!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and nutritious combination of spinach and mushrooms
- Creamy, cheesy delight that everyone will enjoy
- Perfect as a standalone dish or a side at brunch
Perfecting Your Bake
Achieving the perfect texture in your Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake requires attention to the moisture content of the ingredients. Spinach and mushrooms both release water when cooked, so it's essential to sauté them until they're well wilted and the mushrooms are golden brown. This ensures that your bake doesn't end up soggy. Aim for a sauté time of about 5-7 minutes for the mushrooms, until they're browned and flavorful, and another 2-3 minutes for the spinach until just wilted.
Temperature control is key when baking. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) not only helps the top achieve a delightful golden color but also assists in evenly cooking the dish through. A good visual cue is a golden-brown top with slightly puffed edges, indicating that the eggs have set properly. If your bake is still jiggly in the center after 40 minutes, consider giving it an additional 5-10 minutes to firm up.
Ingredient Variations
One of the beauties of the Spinach Mushroom Bake is its adaptability. If you're looking to switch things up or use what you have on hand, consider substituting Swiss cheese for mozzarella for a more robust flavor, or use goat cheese in place of feta for a tangy kick. You can also incorporate other vegetables, like diced bell peppers or even zucchini, enhancing the flavor profile while adding nutrition.
For healthier alternatives, you can replace ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option without sacrificing creaminess. If you want to make it dairy-free, try using tofu blended with a bit of nutritional yeast as a substitute for the cheeses. Just be sure to season adequately, as tofu has a milder flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add in the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are browned, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix the Cheese and Eggs
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, feta cheese, eggs, and milk. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until smooth.
Assemble the Bake
Layer the sautéed spinach and mushrooms in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese and egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the dish.
Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Serve
Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious bake!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also use different types of cheese based on your taste preferences.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing the bake is easy. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. If you're reheating the full dish, cover it with foil to prevent over-browning and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed, about 15-20 minutes.
For longer storage, you can freeze the bake before or after cooking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, portion them out and follow the same thawing and reheating directions.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Mushroom Bake shines as a centerpiece of a brunch spread. Pair it with a fresh side salad or some crispy hash browns to create a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside slices of crusty bread for a complete experience. I like to add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
For a more casual meal, consider portioning it into smaller bites and serving as an appetizer. Cut the bake into squares and offer toothpicks for easy eating. This makes it a fantastic addition to a potluck or a gathering where finger foods are appreciated.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this bake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Just let it cool completely, slice it into portions, and store it in an airtight container in the freezer.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This bake pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or toasted bread for a complete meal.
→ Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before using.
Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake
I absolutely love my Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake because it brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the vibrant freshness of spinach into a comforting dish that’s perfect for brunch. This recipe not only tantalizes my taste buds but also fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma. Every time I prepare it, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can create something so satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover spinach and mushrooms sitting in the fridge. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your weekend routine.
Created by: Fiona Carter
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
How-To Steps
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add in the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are browned, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, feta cheese, eggs, and milk. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until smooth.
Layer the sautéed spinach and mushrooms in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese and egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the dish.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious bake!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also use different types of cheese based on your taste preferences.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g