Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole

Name: Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Light Food

I absolutely love making this Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole as it's not only delicious but also a healthy way to enjoy my favorite vegetables. The way the zucchini and spinach meld together with creamy cheese and breadcrumbs creates a comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, it's great for using up those summer zucchinis from the garden! I can whip this up in just a few minutes, and it makes for fantastic leftovers throughout the week.

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:25:34.375Z

When I first tried this Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole, I was amazed by how well the flavors complemented each other. The freshness of the zucchini combined with the earthiness of spinach makes every bite delightful. One particular tip I found helpful is to salt the zucchini beforehand to draw out excess moisture, which prevents the casserole from becoming watery.

I also love adding a touch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture; it adds a depth of flavor that unexpectedly enhances the dish. Each time I make this, it becomes a family favorite, and it's so easy to prepare that I often find myself doubling the recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Comforting blend of zucchini and spinach
Creamy cheesy goodness in every bite
Great way to use up garden-fresh zucchinis
Perfect for meal prep or sharing with friends

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in this Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole are, of course, the zucchini and spinach. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that adds moisture and a subtle flavor when baked. It's essential to salt the zucchini before assembling the casserole. This process draws out excess moisture, preventing the dish from becoming too watery during baking. The salt also enhances the zucchini's natural flavor, making each bite pop with freshness.

Fresh spinach is another key player, contributing not just flavor but also a myriad of nutrients. When you sauté the spinach with garlic in olive oil, you're unlocking its savory richness, which pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the ricotta and mozzarella. If you're ever in a pinch, feel free to use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to keep your casserole from being soggy.

Perfecting Your Technique

Layering is crucial in achieving the perfect bite. When assembling the casserole, start with a layer of the zucchini and spinach mixture, followed by breadcrumbs and cheeses. This technique allows the flavors to meld together as it bakes, while the breadcrumbs on top will create a delicious, crunchy contrast to the creamy filling. Make sure to press down slightly on each layer to compact it, ensuring an even cook throughout.

Baking covered for the first 30 minutes helps the casserole heat evenly and allows the cheese to melt beautifully. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes is pivotal for that golden, bubbly top that everyone loves. You can keep an eye on it; when the edges are golden brown and the cheese has formed a delightful crust, it’s perfectly baked.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your casserole!

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons olive oil

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious casserole!

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the zucchini

In a colander, sprinkle the sliced zucchini with salt and let it sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.

Sauté the spinach

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Mix the filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta, 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, black pepper, nutmeg, sautéed spinach, and zucchini. Mix well.

Assemble the casserole

Spread half of the mixture in a greased baking dish. Layer with half of the breadcrumbs, then add the remaining zucchini mixture. Top with the rest of the breadcrumbs and cheeses.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

That's it! Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the filling mixture.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be an excellent perk of making this casserole. Once it's cooled, store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Cut it into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for about 2 months; just be sure to label the bag with the date for reference.

To reheat, place your portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, checking until warmed through. If you prefer the oven, cover it with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole can be a fantastic main dish or a hearty side. Pair it with a simple green salad for a light meal, or serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced dinner. Consider adding a dollop of pesto or a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving to enhance the flavors; the acidity from the glaze beautifully contrasts the creaminess of the dish.

For a twist, you can customize the casserole by adding cooked quinoa or lentils for an extra protein boost. You can also experiment with different cheeses; goat cheese, for example, offers a tangy taste that complements the fresh vegetables. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes will give it a gentle heat, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the mixture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or in the oven.

→ What can I serve with the casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep it the day before and simply bake it before serving.