Spinach Tomato Rice Bake

Name: Spinach Tomato Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Balanced Food

I’ve always loved hearty casseroles, and this Spinach Tomato Rice Bake has become one of my go-to comfort foods. It's the perfect dish to prepare when you want something nutritious yet satisfying. The combination of fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and fluffy rice creates a vibrant flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal that can feed a crowd, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or potlucks. You’ll enjoy how easy it is to throw together and the delightful aroma it fills your kitchen with while it bakes!

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:25:35.561Z

Making this Spinach Tomato Rice Bake was a delightful experiment in my kitchen. I decided to layer the ingredients for added texture and flavor – starting with a base of seasoned rice, then adding fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes. This method not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that each serving is packed with nutrients. I recommend using fresh herbs to elevate the dish even further!

What really makes this bake stand out is the bubbling cheese on top. I used a combination of mozzarella and parmesan, which creates a beautiful golden crust that melts perfectly over the vegetables. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set – trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A nutritious blend of spinach and tomatoes for a wholesome taste
Comforting, cheesy topping that adds rich flavor
Versatile dish great for leftovers or meal prep

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of spinach and tomatoes in this bake not only adds an array of colors but infuses the dish with essential nutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, while tomatoes bring a boost of antioxidants, particularly lycopene. Together, these ingredients enhance both the flavor profile and health benefits of the casserole, making it a perfect choice for a guilt-free indulgence.

When selecting your tomatoes, consider using fresh ripe tomatoes during the season for a sweeter profile. If using canned tomatoes, opt for whole peeled varieties for their robust flavor. This small choice can elevate the overall taste of the dish significantly, especially when you let them simmer with onion and garlic until they meld together into a rich base.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

Baking this casserole covered for the initial 20 minutes helps steam the ingredients, keeping them moist. It’s crucial to remove the foil during the final baking phase to achieve that desirable bubbly and golden cheese topping. Keep an eye on the cheese for the last 5 minutes to ensure it does not over-brown or burn, as ovens can vary in heat intensity.

If you prefer a crispy topping, consider broiling the baked dish for an additional 1-2 minutes after removing the foil. Just be ready to watch closely to prevent it from charring; a little char on the edges can add a delightful crunch without compromising the overall dish.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking process.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to mix everything well before baking to enhance the flavors.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot when the dish goes in.

Prepare the Base

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent. Stir in the diced tomatoes and oregano, cooking for another 5 minutes until the mixture is well combined.

Add Spinach and Rice

Mix in the chopped spinach and cooked rice, stirring until everything is evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Layer the Ingredients

Transfer half of the rice mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Layer the remaining rice mixture on top, finishing with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor!

Pro Tips

Using fresh spinach instead of frozen keeps the texture crisp and vibrant. Experiment with adding different herbs for a personalized twist!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Tomato Rice Bake is an ideal candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the casserole up to the layering step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when baked.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it's still cold in the center.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bake alongside a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese. A side of crusty garlic bread also complements the dish wonderfully, allowing your guests to soak up any delicious sauce left on their plates.

For a personalized touch, feel free to add cooked protein like shredded chicken or chickpeas for added heartiness. Not only will this variation enhance the nutritional profile, but it also makes the dish even more filling if you're serving it as a main course for a crowd.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. Just make sure to use vegetable broth if adding any liquids.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just remember to adjust the cooking time for the brown rice, as it typically takes longer to cook.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or zucchini.