Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice Bake

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice Bake; it has become a staple in my kitchen. The way the creamy sauce intertwines with the tender rice and the vibrant spinach and tomatoes creates such a satisfying dish. Perfect as a main or a side, this bake is not only delicious but also provides a comforting, homey feel. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights. I can't wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:13:12.182Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was looking for a way to combine some of my favorite ingredients into a comforting dish. The blend of creamy cheese, sautéed spinach, and tangy tomatoes really amplifies the flavor profile. I discovered that baking the dish helps meld the flavors together beautifully, creating a harmonious taste that excites the palate.

To enhance the creamy texture, I added a touch of cream cheese to the sauce, which not only makes the dish richer but also keeps everything velvety. Every time I bake this dish, it brings joy to everyone at my table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that envelops each grain of rice
Vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and tangy tomatoes
Perfectly satisfies both vegetarian and meat-lover cravings

      

Key Techniques for a Perfect Bake

Cooking the rice correctly is essential for achieving the perfect texture in this dish. I recommend rinsing the uncooked rice under cold water first to remove excess starch. This will help prevent clumping and ensure fluffy grains. When simmering, keep the heat low and the lid on tightly to allow the rice to steam properly, absorbing all the vegetable broth flavor without letting steam escape.

As you prepare the filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This avoids clumps in your mixture, ensuring a smooth, creamy consistency throughout. You can microwave the cream cheese for about 15-20 seconds if you're short on time. Mixing the ingredients by hand is helpful since you can appreciate the combination of flavors and textures as you fold in the spinach and tomatoes.

Ingredient Insights and Swaps

Fresh spinach is a star ingredient in this bake, contributing not only vibrant color but also vital nutrients. However, if you can't find fresh spinach, frozen spinach can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to remove excess moisture before adding it to the mix. Alternatively, kale can be used for a heartier option, chopped finely to maintain a pleasant texture.

Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst that balances the savory creaminess of this dish. If they're out of season, canned diced tomatoes work as a decent alternative. Just drain them well and reduce the liquid in the baking dish by a bit to avoid a watery bake. For those avoiding dairy, try using a vegan cream cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain creaminess while keeping the dish plant-based.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice Bake

1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth

Mix all these fantastic ingredients for a delightful outcome!

Instructions

Cook the rice

In a medium pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add uncooked rice, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes or until rice is tender.

Prepare the filling

In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, cream cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Assemble the bake

Transfer the rice mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing onions and garlic before mixing with the spinach and tomatoes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The creamy spinach tomato rice bake can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to take off the chill before placing it in the oven.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating the bake in the oven is ideal, as it keeps the texture intact. Cover with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Serving Ideas and Variations

This bake serves beautifully as a vegetarian main dish accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread. For an added protein boost, consider serving it with grilled chicken or shrimp on top. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with a fresh, zesty side like a citrusy coleslaw, which can help balance the richness of the bake.

Feel free to customize this dish by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. However, be cautious about adding too many wet ingredients, as excess moisture can alter the dish's consistency. For an ethnic twist, you might even experiment with different herbs or spices, like basil or red pepper flakes, to elevate the flavor profile further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that the cooking time will increase. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.

→ Can I add protein to this recipe?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be wonderful additions to this bake.

→ 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.