Baked Eggs with Spinach, Tomatoes, Ricotta & Basil

Baked Eggs with Spinach, Tomatoes, Ricotta & Basil is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The combination of rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, earthy spinach, and fragrant basil creates a beautifully balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Wholesome: A nourishing dish packed with vegetables, protein, and flavor.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for serving family-style at brunch or for a cozy dinner.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
• Visually Appealing: Bright, colorful, and appetizing right out of the oven.
• Customizable: Easy to modify with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste or sun-dried tomato pesto
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 8 large eggs
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Crusty bread or focaccia, for serving

Directions

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the garlic and chili flakes, cooking for another minute.
2. Add the tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, until thickened slightly.
3. Stir in spinach: Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Create egg wells: Make 6–8 wells in the sauce using the back of a spoon and crack an egg into each one.
6. Add cheese: Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan.
7. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but yolks are still runny (or to your preferred doneness).
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and scatter fresh basil leaves over the top. Serve with warm crusty bread or focaccia.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Try adding cooked bacon, sausage, or chorizo before the eggs.
• Make it spicy: Use hot paprika or extra chili flakes for a kick.
• Use different greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be substituted for spinach.
• Cheese swaps: Use goat cheese or feta for a tangier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The yolks may firm up slightly upon reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make the tomato and spinach base ahead and refrigerate. Add eggs and bake just before serving.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess liquid before adding to the tomato sauce.

What’s the best pan for this recipe?

Use an oven-safe skillet or a shallow casserole dish to go from stovetop to oven.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely. Use about 6–8 fresh tomatoes, chopped. Simmer longer to reduce liquid.

What kind of ricotta should I use?

Full-fat ricotta works best for a rich, creamy texture.

Are there any dairy-free alternatives?

Yes, use a plant-based ricotta substitute or omit it altogether.

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini work well in this dish.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

With minor tweaks (fewer tomatoes and low-carb cheese), it can be adapted for a low-carb diet.

Can I make this with fewer eggs?

Yes, scale down the number of eggs depending on servings and preference.

What bread pairs well with this?

Rustic sourdough, focaccia, or garlic bread are great for dipping in the sauce.

Conclusion

Baked Eggs with Spinach, Tomatoes, Ricotta & Basil is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal of the day. With its creamy texture, hearty base, and fresh herbs, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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