Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole

Name: Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

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I love making this Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole when I'm in the mood for something comforting yet healthy. The combination of tender zucchini, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese makes every bite delightful. It’s an effortless dish that not only awakens the palate but also uses ingredients I often have on hand. This casserole is perfect as a main dish or a hearty side, and I find it appeals to everyone, whether they are veggie lovers or not!

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:58:36.442Z

When I first decided to make this casserole, I was looking for a way to enjoy my favorite vegetables without losing their flavor or texture. I roasted the zucchini ahead of time to bring out its natural sweetness, and it made all the difference in the dish. My family was pleasantly surprised by how satisfying the casserole turned out, and I loved the creamy cheese that held everything together!

One tip I learned was to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach before adding it to the mix. This prevents the casserole from becoming soggy and ensures every bite is full of flavor. Trust me, that little step can take your casserole from good to great!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A hearty and healthy option packed with nutrients
Creamy texture and rich flavors that please all palates
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of zucchini is essential for this casserole. I recommend selecting medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes for the best texture. When sliced, they should be able to maintain their shape during the baking process while absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients. If you find yourself with large zucchinis, consider slicing them into thinner rounds to ensure even cooking.

Spinach adds not only color but also a wealth of nutrients to this dish. Using fresh spinach is preferred as it wilts beautifully and enhances the flavor profile. If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can substitute it with frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. The combination of creamy cheeses complements the spinach, creating a rich and delightful filling.

Perfecting Your Casserole

When layering the casserole, be sure to distribute the sausage evenly. This helps in achieving consistent flavors and avoids any dry spots in the final dish. I like to press down on the layers slightly to pack them together, ensuring that the filling seeps into the zucchini. Additionally, a light greasing of the baking dish prevents sticking and aids in easy serving.

During baking, covering the dish with aluminum foil is critical during the initial cooking time. This method helps to trap steam, ensuring that the zucchini cooks through and the cheese mixture gets creamy. When you remove the foil in the last five minutes, it allows the cheese to get bubbly and turn golden. Keep an eye on it during this final stage to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delicious casserole:

Casserole Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start assembling the casserole!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot for the casserole.

Prepare the Zucchini

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for about 5 minutes, until just tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, garlic powder, spinach, half of the mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.

Assemble the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sautéed zucchini, followed by the cheese filling. Top with the remaining zucchini and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and the rest of the mozzarella.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add some herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the flavor further. You can also substitute different greens or cheeses based on your preferences.

Storing and Reheating

This casserole is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply slice the portion you want and microwave it for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain a crispy top.

If you're planning to make this ahead of time, consider assembling it one day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil or wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge, as it will be colder than when it's freshly made.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and add in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the zucchini for a delightful earthiness, or add some diced tomatoes for a fresh twist. If you want some protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken or turkey sausage to elevate the dish into a complete meal.

For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with cashew cream or vegan cheese. Blending soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and salt creates a creamy paste that mimics the richness of cheese beautifully. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of the casserole without compromising on dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it.

→ Can I freeze leftover casserole?

Absolutely! Once cooled, store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat it in the oven when you're ready to enjoy it.

→ Can I substitute other vegetables?

Definitely! You can try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even carrots for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Enjoy it as is or add more veggies to customize it to your liking.