Savory Quinoa and Spinach Bake

Name: Savory Quinoa and Spinach Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 large eggs, beaten

Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals

I absolutely love making this Savory Quinoa and Spinach Bake for weeknight dinners. It’s not just a great way to use up fresh spinach, but it also fills me up thanks to the hearty quinoa. The flavors blend beautifully, and it never feels heavy. What I really enjoy is the simplicity of throwing everything together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the recipe is versatile, so I can add my favorite cheeses or spices depending on what I have in the fridge!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T19:34:27.974Z

When I first experimented with a quinoa bake, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create an incredibly satisfying dish. I’ve found that the key is to cook the quinoa just right, which ensures it absorbs all the flavors from the spinach and seasoning. I also love using fresh herbs, which really elevate the taste.

Once I had perfected this recipe, it quickly became a family favorite. Now, I often make it during gatherings, and everyone raves about it. I recommend letting it sit for a few minutes before serving; it holds together beautifully and makes for an impressive presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious bite packed with protein and green goodness
Comforting flavor that satisfies even the pickiest eaters
Perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays or gatherings

Understanding Quinoa and Its Role

Quinoa is not only a great source of protein, but it also brings a fluffy and slightly nutty texture to the Savory Quinoa and Spinach Bake. This pseudo-grain acts as the foundation, holding the dish together while absorbing the flavors from the sautéed vegetables and seasonings. When cooked properly, the quinoa should be tender yet slightly chewy. To achieve this, make sure the vegetable broth is boiling before adding the rinsed quinoa, and keep it covered during the simmering process to trap steam.

If you're looking for alternatives to quinoa, consider bulgur or farro; both provide a similar texture but will alter the flavor profile slightly. However, if you need a gluten-free option, quinoa remains the best choice. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as bulgur cooks faster than quinoa, while farro usually takes longer.

Vegetable Variations and Flavor Boosts

The beauty of this bake lies in its versatility. While the base of spinach and cherry tomatoes adds a fresh and vibrant flavor, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Think about incorporating grated carrots for sweetness, bell peppers for crunch, or even zucchini for added moisture. Just be sure to sauté any additional vegetables sufficiently so they can release their moisture before baking, which helps maintain the desired texture.

Herbs and spices are another fantastic way to enhance the flavors of your dish. If you're a fan of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onion and garlic as they sauté. Alternatively, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving can provide a burst of freshness that complements the baked dish beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the standout features of this Savory Quinoa and Spinach Bake is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, assembling everything in the baking dish and covering it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop it in the oven; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven instead of the microwave for the best texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bake for about 15 minutes, allowing it to heat through while keeping the edges slightly crisp.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add in the rinsed quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add in the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted.

Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, cherry tomatoes, oregano, salt, black pepper, mozzarella cheese, and beaten eggs. Stir to mix well.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and set in the middle.

Serve

Let the bake cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bake by adding different vegetables or spices according to your preference. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add a nice kick!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To elevate your Savory Quinoa and Spinach Bake, consider serving it alongside a light salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the dish's heartiness. Additionally, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese right before serving adds a creamy richness that complements the bake's flavors wonderfully.

If you're in the mood for a complete meal, pair it with a protein source such as grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for extra satisfaction. This dish works beautifully as part of a brunch spread or as a side dish during dinner gatherings, making it a wonderful option to impress your guests.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common challenge when making this bake is ensuring that the middle cooks through while the top doesn’t burn. If you find that the top is browning too quickly, covering the dish loosely with aluminum foil partway through baking can prevent over-browning while allowing the inside to set properly. Also, check the doneness around the 25-minute mark; a gentle shake should show no movement in the center if it is fully cooked.

If your bake ends up too dry, it’s often due to overcooking or not enough moisture in the quinoa. Be sure to accurately measure your ingredients and watch the baking time closely. You can always add a splash of vegetable broth before serving if you find it lacks moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well before adding it to the mixture.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just allow additional baking time.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This bake pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Try using feta, goat cheese, or any cheese you prefer for a different flavor profile.