We’ve always been fans of Spinach Ricotta Pie for its comforting blend of fresh greens and creamy cheese all wrapped in a golden crust. It’s a versatile dish that brings a taste of Italian-inspired flavors right to your kitchen making it ideal for weeknight meals or gatherings.
What we love most is how simple it is to prepare yet packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out our Spinach Ricotta Pie recipe promises a delicious result that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
To bring our Spinach Ricotta Pie to life, we gather these key ingredients in the order we use them, ensuring each one contributes to the dish’s fresh, creamy texture and flavorful profile.
- Pie Crust: 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust (9-inch), rolled out and fitted into a pie dish for the base.
- Fresh Spinach: 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed, stemmed, and roughly chopped to wilt easily during cooking.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced to sauté first for building a savory base.
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced to add aromatic depth right after the onion.
- Ricotta Cheese: 2 cups whole-milk ricotta, drained to remove excess moisture for a creamy filling.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten to bind the mixture and create a light, fluffy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, freshly shredded for enhanced nutty flavor and melting quality.
- Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley and basil, combined for a burst of herbaceous notes.
- Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, freshly grated to introduce warm, subtle spice.
- Salt and Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, adjusted to taste for balanced seasoning.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our Spinach Ricotta Pie, let’s gather the essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient. Having the right equipment ensures we handle the ingredients—such as the fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, and pie crust—with precision and ease.
- Pie Dish or Tart Pan: We recommend a 9-inch pie dish for a classic, golden crust. This is crucial for baking the pie evenly and achieving that perfect, flaky texture.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a set of medium and large mixing bowls to combine ingredients like ricotta, eggs, and herbs. Opt for ones with non-slip bases to keep things stable while we whisk.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 10-12 inch skillet is ideal for sautéing the fresh spinach, onion, and garlic. This step locks in flavors and wilts the greens quickly.
- Baking Sheet: Place a sturdy baking sheet under the pie dish to catch any drips and prevent oven messes, ensuring our pie bakes without issues.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s success, so use a set of measuring cups and spoons for ingredients like Parmesan cheese and seasonings.
- Whisk or Fork: A reliable whisk helps us blend the eggs and ricotta smoothly, creating that creamy filling we love.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Employ a large cutting board and sharp knife for chopping onions, garlic, and herbs efficiently before they go into the mix.
- Oven: Preheat a standard oven to 375°F for optimal baking. This ensures the pie sets perfectly without over-browning the crust.
With these tools at hand, we’re all set to transition seamlessly from ingredients to the preparation steps.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and preheated our oven to 375°F, let’s walk through the steps to craft our savory Spinach Ricotta Pie. We’ll use straightforward techniques to ensure a flaky crust and a creamy, flavorful filling that delights the senses.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin cooking, it’s essential to prep our ingredients for efficiency and optimal flavor. Start by washing 10 ounces of fresh spinach under cold water to remove any grit, then pat it dry and roughly chop it into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the pie.
Next, peel and finely dice 1 medium onion and 2 garlic cloves to release their aromatic essence. In a separate bowl, crumble 15 ounces of ricotta cheese and grate 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese for a smooth, creamy texture. Crack 2 large eggs into a small dish and whisk them lightly to incorporate air, enhancing the filling’s lightness. Finally, chop 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and measure out 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and 1 teaspoon of salt for seasoning. This preparation sets the stage for a vibrant, herbaceous filling that promises a burst of fresh flavors in every bite.
Make the Filling
With our ingredients ready, we shift to creating the heart of the pie—the rich, creamy filling. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Once aromatic, stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts and releases its vibrant green color and earthy moisture. Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with the crumbled ricotta, whisked eggs, grated Parmesan, chopped herbs, nutmeg, and salt, stirring until everything blends into a smooth, velvety filling. This step ensures a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, from the tender spinach to the tangy cheese, creating a filling that’s as comforting as it is nutritious.
Assemble the Pie
Now we assemble our pie, layering flavors for a golden, irresistible finish. Roll out our pre-made pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides to form an even base that will crisp up perfectly.
Pour the prepared filling into the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a uniform bake. If desired, top with another pie crust or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added crunch and flavor. This assembly transforms simple ingredients into a visually appealing pie, with the creamy filling nestled securely, ready to bake into a dish that boasts a flaky exterior and a moist, savory interior.
Bake the Pie
Finally, we bake our pie to achieve that perfect golden crust and set filling. Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then slide it into the preheated 375°F oven.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, rotating the pie halfway through for even browning, until the crust turns a deep golden color and the filling sets with a slight jiggle in the center. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing, allowing the flavors to meld and the pie to hold its shape for a satisfying, warm serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We understand that life gets busy, so making our Spinach Ricotta Pie ahead of time is a game-changer for effortless meals. This approach lets you prepare components in advance, ensuring fresh flavors and a golden crust without last-minute stress. Below, we break down the steps for optimal results.
Preparing the Filling Ahead
To keep the vibrant greens and creamy ricotta at their best, we suggest making the filling up to 2 days in advance:
- Step 1: After sautéing the spinach, onion, and garlic as outlined in our preparation steps, let the mixture cool completely in a mixing bowl.
- Step 2: Stir in the ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan, fresh herbs, nutmeg, and seasoning until fully combined.
- Step 3: Transfer the filling to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly to maintain its fresh, savory profile.
Assembling the Pie in Advance
For even more convenience, you can assemble the entire pie ahead and bake it later:
- Option 1 (Refrigerate): Roll out your pie crust into the 9-inch pie dish, add the prepared filling, and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes as per our baking instructions.
- Option 2 (Freeze): For longer storage, assemble the pie without baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Our expert tip: Label the package with the date and instructions. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with baking as above, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
| Make-Ahead Method | Storage Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerating Filling | Up to 2 days | Use within 48 hours for best texture and flavor. |
| Refrigerating Assembled Pie | Up to 24 hours | Allow time to reach room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking. |
| Freezing Assembled Pie | Up to 2 months | Thaw fully to avoid a soggy crust; reheat at 375°F until internal temperature reaches 165°F. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your Spinach Ricotta Pie remains a nutritious, comforting delight ready whenever you are. Always prioritize food safety by using clean utensils and checking for spoilage before use.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Spinach Ricotta Pie recipe with you, as it’s become a staple in our kitchen for its effortless charm and satisfying flavors. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a simple way to bring fresh, nutritious goodness to your table.
Give it a try and see how it adds a touch of comfort to your routine; we’re confident you’ll make it again and again. Share your twists with us in the comments—we can’t wait to hear how it turns out!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spinach Ricotta Pie?
Spinach Ricotta Pie is a comforting savory dish featuring fresh spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, and herbs baked in a golden crust. It’s versatile for weeknight dinners or gatherings, offering simple preparation and nutritional benefits like vitamins from greens and protein from cheese. This recipe suits all skill levels for a delicious, repeatable meal.
What ingredients are needed for Spinach Ricotta Pie?
Key ingredients include a pie crust, fresh spinach, onion, garlic, ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, nutmeg, and seasoning. These elements create a fresh, creamy texture and flavorful profile, making the pie both nutritious and satisfying. Measure accurately for the best results.
How do I prepare Spinach Ricotta Pie?
Start by prepping ingredients: wash and chop spinach, dice onion and garlic, and whisk eggs. Sauté onion, garlic, and spinach, then mix with ricotta, Parmesan, herbs, nutmeg, and seasoning. Pour into a rolled-out crust, add optional toppings, and bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes until golden and set. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
How long does it take to bake Spinach Ricotta Pie?
Bake the pie at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is fully set. This ensures even cooking and melds the flavors perfectly. Always preheat your oven for the best results.
Can I make Spinach Ricotta Pie ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. You can also assemble the pie and freeze it for up to a month, then bake from frozen with extra time. Follow food safety guidelines for storage to keep it fresh and nutritious.
Is Spinach Ricotta Pie healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with nutrients from fresh spinach, like vitamins A and C, plus protein from ricotta and eggs. The herbs and veggies add flavor without excess calories, making it a balanced, wholesome option for everyday meals.
What equipment do I need for Spinach Ricotta Pie?
You’ll need a 9-inch pie dish for baking, mixing bowls for ingredients, a skillet for sautéing, a baking sheet for drips, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk for blending, and a cutting board with knife for chopping. These basics ensure smooth preparation.