Cheesy Italian Spinach Bake

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with a little olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Spinach:
   • If using fresh spinach, wash and trim the stems, then blanch the spinach in boiling water for about 2 minutes. Drain well and squeeze out excess moisture. Roughly chop the spinach.
   • If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Set the prepared spinach aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Mix the Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked onions and garlic with the spinach. Stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and eggs. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
   • Season with nutmeg, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
5. Assemble the Bake:
   • Transfer the spinach mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
   • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
   • Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the spinach mixture to create a crunchy topping.
6. Bake:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
   • If you like a darker, more caramelized crust, you can place the dish under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a standalone meal with a simple salad on the side.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Italian Spinach Bake

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Since cheese is a star ingredient in this dish, using high-quality ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
• Drain the Spinach Well: Whether you’re using fresh or frozen spinach, it’s crucial to remove as much moisture as possible. Excess water can make the bake soggy, which will affect the texture.
• Customize It: Feel free to add other ingredients to the mix, such as sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even cooked Italian sausage for extra flavor and heartiness.

ENJOY IT AND HAPPY COOKING 💛