Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love a dish that brings together simple ingredients and creates something truly comforting. This Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake is my go-to recipe for cozy afternoons. The combination of creamy spinach, vibrant tomatoes, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. I find that using fresh spinach adds a delightful brightness, while the tomatoes provide a satisfying acidity that balances the richness. Whether it’s a weekend gathering or a quiet dinner for two, this bake never fails to impress. You need to try it to experience the warm, homey comfort it brings!

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:17:34.878Z

When I first tried to create this dish, I wanted something that felt indulgent but was also packed with nutrition. I opted for a creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt, which not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a protein boost. The key to success here is to sauté the spinach just enough to wilt it, maintaining its fresh flavor while blending harmoniously with the tomatoes and cheese.

This bake has become a family favorite, and I always look forward to sharing it with friends. I’ve found that the freshness of herbs like basil elevates the flavor even more. Plus, it’s perfect for make-ahead meals, as it keeps well in the fridge and tastes just as good reheated!

Why You'll Love This Recipe:
Rich, creamy texture that comforts on colder days
Vibrant burst of flavor from fresh tomatoes and spinach
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion

Perfectly Sautéed Spinach

Sautéing the spinach is a crucial step that not only enhances its flavor but also ensures the right texture in your bake. Cooking the spinach until just wilted, which takes about 2-3 minutes, allows it to retain some of its vibrant color and nutrients. If you overcook it, you risk losing that bright green hue and making it overly mushy. Pay attention to the garlic as well; it should just become fragrant without browning, which can impart a bitter taste.

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg when sautéing your spinach. This adds a warm depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the yogurt and cheese. Just a pinch can elevate the dish, adding a hint of sophistication without overwhelming the primary ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for Greek yogurt, you can swap it out for sour cream or even a dairy-free yogurt if needed. The goal is to maintain a creamy consistency, so choose options that provide similar thickness and tang. If you’re looking for extra protein, cottage cheese could be an interesting alternative—just blend it for a smoother texture before adding it to the mix.

Cherry tomatoes are a delightful choice, but feel free to substitute with any variety of tomato you have on hand. Larger tomatoes can be chopped into similar-sized pieces to mimic the bite-sized nature of cherries. For added sweetness, consider roasting the tomatoes beforehand at 400°F (200°C) until their skins start to caramelize, intensifying their flavor in the final dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a flavorful and comforting dish.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake.

Sauté the Spinach

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach, cooking until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and Parmesan until well mixed.

Bake the Mixture

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad.

Enjoy your delicious Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped fresh basil or oregano to the mix before baking. You can also substitute cream cheese for additional creaminess.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Prepare the creamy spinach and tomato mixture a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and bubbly, about 20 minutes. This way, you save time while still enjoying a homemade meal full of flavor.

If you're thinking about freezing it, I suggest freezing before the baking step. Transfer the mixture into an airtight container; it can be frozen for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy your creamy bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This method ensures that the dish retains its delightful texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Sunday Creamy Spinach Tomato Bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a simple quinoa salad with a citrus vinaigrette to brighten up the flavors. Alternatively, crusty, toasted bread is excellent for scooping up the creamy goodness, soaking up any delicious juices that escape during baking.

For a lighter option, consider a mixed green salad dressed with a light balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing complements the richness of the bake, creating a balanced meal. Feel free to sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving for added freshness and color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just ensure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the mix.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

It pairs nicely with a simple green salad or some toasted baguette slices for dipping.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for meatless meals.