Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole

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

Highlighted under: Oven Food

I absolutely love making this Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole whenever I have a craving for something delicious yet nutritious. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy as a main course or a side. Packed with fresh vegetables and baked to golden perfection, it’s a treat the whole family can enjoy. The combination of zucchini and spinach creates a wonderful flavor profile that I can never resist. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing!

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:25:35.625Z

When I first attempted this Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole, I was amazed at how simple and rewarding it was. The layers of zucchini and spinach combined with creamy cheese create such a comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. One key tip I learned is to lightly salt the zucchini beforehand to draw out excess moisture, preventing the casserole from becoming soggy.

After several tweaks, I finally settled on using a mix of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for that perfect cheesy crust. It browns beautifully in the oven, making the final dish look just as good as it tastes. Everyone raves about it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that highlight zucchini and spinach
Comforting, cheesy goodness in every bite
An easy, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for leftovers

      

Elevating Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the vegetables plays a crucial role in the overall flavor of the Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole. When selecting zucchini, look for ones that are firm and vibrant in color; avoid those with soft spots or dehydration. Fresh spinach should be bright green and free from any wilting or browning. Utilizing fresh ingredients not only enhances the taste but also preserves the nutritional benefits, making this dish even more appealing for health-conscious eaters.

The choice of cheese also significantly impacts the casserole's creaminess and flavor profile. Ricotta adds a rich, slightly sweet undertone, while mozzarella melts into gooey goodness, creating that comforting texture we crave in casseroles. The grated parmesan on top contributes a nutty, savory finish, particularly when baked until golden. Consider using part-skim cheese for a lighter option or swapping in different cheeses like goat cheese for a tangier flavor experience.

Techniques for Perfect Layering

Layering is a critical step in achieving a well-distributed flavor in your casserole. When putting together the layers, make sure to spread the cheese mixture evenly over the zucchini. This way, every bite will be rich and fulfilling. A good tip is to gently press down on each layer with a spatula—this helps compress the ingredients and allows them to meld beautifully during baking.

Also, do not rush the salting process for the zucchini. Allowing it to sit for 10 minutes will draw out excess moisture, preventing the casserole from becoming soggy. After salting, you can pat the slices dry with a paper towel. If your zucchini ends up releasing too much moisture during baking, consider baking it in a slightly larger dish or increasing the baking time by 5-10 minutes, until the edges are golden and crispy.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

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

Mix all of the ingredients well and layer them in a baking dish for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare zucchini

Lightly salt the sliced zucchini and let it sit for 10 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture.

Mix fillings

In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Layer the casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the zucchini slices, then spread half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.

Bake

Drizzle olive oil over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This casserole can be served warm and is excellent as leftovers.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. It pairs well with the veggies!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining. After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply remove the cover and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure it heats through thoroughly. This can help enhance the flavors as they have time to meld together.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven helps maintain the texture but can take 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If using a microwave, reheat in short bursts at medium power to prevent the cheese from getting rubbery.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Baked Zucchini Spinach Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread for a hearty meal. For an added punch of flavor, consider topping it with crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, right before serving. This will introduce a fresh element that brightens up the dish.

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Adding cooked quinoa or brown rice can make it even heartier, while substituting the spinach with kale offers a different texture and nutrition profile. If you prefer a vegan version, swapping out the cheeses for cashew cream and tofu can yield a satisfying, plant-based alternative that retains the luxurious creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the excess moisture before using.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as alternatives.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Consider mixing in bell peppers, mushrooms, or even kale.