A Bariatric Ricotta Bake Recipe is a nutritious and satisfying dish designed specifically for individuals who are maintaining a bariatric diet. After undergoing weight loss surgery, a diet demands a certain nutritious balance which should be easy as well, on the digestive system. This dish is a comforting, delicious ricotta bake that is also creamy, low-carb, and high-protein. With the healing purpose of surgery in mind, it is also nutritious; a great blend of ricotta cheese, lean meat, and veggies provides all the post-surgery nutrients needed for healing and long-term health.
The Bariatric Ricotta Bake is great for satisfying a meal. This dish works for all healthy weight loss goals and is great for maintaining weight, as well as easy-to-fix meals, which are nutritious for the needs. The rich, cheesy taste and the robust ingredients easy for people missing “comfort meals” after the surgery.
You can easily change this recipe for different diets, like gluten-free or vegetarian, just by replacing the meat or changing the cheese. It can be a meal or a snack; you can keep it for later, which makes it great for really busy people. If you need a tasty and healthy option after a surgery, the Bariatric Ricotta Bake is just the right choice, for it offers a great combination of flavor and nutrition.
Bariatric Ricotta Bake Recipe From DishBloom!
Bariatric Ricotta Bake
Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish (or similar size)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Cooking spray (optional)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese low-fat or fat-free
- 1 cup cooked ground turkey or chicken or vegetarian option
- 1 cup spinach or other leafy greens chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese low-fat
- 1 egg or egg substitute
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for greasing
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil optional
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked ground turkey (or chicken), spinach, shredded mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and basil (if using). Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the ricotta bake cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy it warm!
Notes
- Customization: You can substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken, lean beef, or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven. It also freezes well for longer storage.
- Protein Boost: Add extra protein by mixing in some cottage cheese or using a higher-protein ricotta cheese.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
