Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake

Name: Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love preparing this Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake as it perfectly complements our weekend family brunches. The combination of sautéed spinach and mushrooms baked with a creamy sauce creates such a comforting dish. It takes just a little bit of prep time, but the result is a flavorful casserole that everyone enjoys. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, this bake is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:07:15.565Z

When I first made this Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. I used a mix of fresh spinach and cremini mushrooms, which not only added depth to the flavor but also made it visually appealing. Mixing in some cheese and a touch of cream brought everything together beautifully.

After a few trials, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of nutmeg just before baking gives an unexpected warmth and depth to the dish. It’s now a staple at our family gatherings, often served alongside a fresh salad and crusty bread.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Satisfying layers of creamy spinach and mushrooms
Perfectly seasoned with hints of nutmeg and garlic
Great for meal prep and can be enjoyed leftovers

      

Elevating Flavor with Simple Techniques

To achieve the perfect texture in your Sunday Spinach Mushroom Bake, focusing on the sautéing technique is essential. When you first cook the garlic until it’s fragrant, ensure you don’t burn it, as it can turn bitter. The mushrooms should be browned nicely; don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause them to steam instead of sauté. A good indicator is when they release their moisture and develop a rich brown color, typically after 5-7 minutes on medium heat.

Incorporating nutmeg into the creamy mixture not only adds a wonderful depth but also balances the flavors. If nutmeg is unfamiliar to you, start with half a teaspoon; its warm notes complement the earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully. For an extra creamy texture, consider mixing in an additional dollop of ricotta or a splash of crème fraîche. This will contribute richness, but keep the mixture thick enough to hold together during baking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This bake is incredibly versatile when it comes to leftovers. After baking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes. Reheating in the microwave is quicker but may alter the texture slightly, so I recommend the oven for the best results.

For serving, you can enjoy this dish warm as a side alongside eggs or incorporate it as a filling in a breakfast burrito. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a more substantial light meal. If you're feeling adventurous, consider layering the bake with sliced tomatoes or a hint of spicy cheese for added flavor complexity. Remember, this recipe is forgiving; feel free to modify it to suit your taste!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Preheat and Sauté

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, then toss in the mushrooms. Sauté until they are softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped spinach, cooking just until wilted.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed mushrooms and spinach until well mixed.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, try adding breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to modify this recipe for dietary preferences, several substitutions work beautifully. For a dairy-free option, swap out the ricotta and cream with cashew cream or silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast. Similarly, you can use vegan cheeses in place of the Parmesan and mozzarella. The key is to ensure that whatever replacement you choose will still provide creaminess and richness to the bake, as this is crucial to the overall texture.

Feel free to incorporate other vegetables into the mix. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even artichokes can add delightful flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture levels—squeeze excess water from vegetables like zucchini before adding to avoid a watery bake. You could also experiment with adding cooked quinoa or wild rice into the filling for a heartier dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with bakes like this is the tendency for the bottom to become soggy. To prevent this, ensure that your mushrooms are well-cooked and most of their moisture has evaporated before mixing them with the spinach. Additionally, consider layering the bottom of your baking dish with a thin layer of breadcrumbs to absorb any excess liquid that might accumulate during baking.

If the top of your casserole doesn't brown as much as you'd like after 30 minutes, try switching to the broiler setting for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. A golden, bubbly top indicates that the cheeses are melting beautifully and the flavors have melded together, creating that irresistible comforting finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Yes, make sure to thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess water.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes for more flavor!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze the bake before or after cooking. Just ensure it's well covered.