If you are on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious dish, the Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. This delightful casserole brings together tender spinach, tangy feta, and a medley of creamy cheeses, baked to golden perfection. Its rich texture, vibrant color, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s vegetarian and gluten-free, making it accessible and satisfying for many dietary preferences. You’ll love how this recipe turns simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe is key to nailing its taste and texture. Each item plays an essential role, from the freshness of the spinach to the creamy sharpness of the feta and the warmth of the nutmeg. These basics come together to create a beautiful balance of flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps sauté the onions perfectly.
- 1 small onion (finely chopped): Brings a sweet, savory base to the casserole.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach (thawed and well-drained): The star ingredient, providing vibrant color and earthiness.
- 4 large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together while giving the casserole structure.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: Offers a tangy, salty burst that makes this casserole truly shine.
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese or ricotta: Adds creaminess and a subtle milky flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a nutty, savory note and helps with browning.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): A warm spice that complements spinach beautifully without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors.
How to Make Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Aromatics
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Then, warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for one more minute to awaken the flavors without burning the garlic’s delicate essence.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Once the onion and garlic are ready, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the well-drained spinach, eggs, crumbled feta, cottage or ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until you achieve an even, homogenous mixture. This is the moment you’ll appreciate how all these simple ingredients come together to create a rich filling.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour your spinach and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top evenly, which ensures consistent cooking and a beautiful finish. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole sets completely and develops a lightly golden crust on top. Let it rest briefly after baking; this allows it to firm up and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite magnificently. You might also enjoy a dusting of extra Parmesan for those who love that umami kick. Thin lemon zest curls can introduce a subtle zing that complements the feta’s tang perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with light sides such as a crisp mixed greens salad or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar. For heartier meals, try serving alongside roasted potatoes or grilled chicken to round out the plate. The creamy spinach bake lends itself well to a variety of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties. You can also scoop the casserole onto toasted slices of rustic bread to create tasty open-faced sandwiches. Another idea is to cut it into squares and serve warm as finger food at gatherings; everyone will swoon over this crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spinach casserole keeps very well in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or a quick lunch option during busy weeks.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by wrapping the casserole tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or placing portions in freezer-safe containers. It will maintain its delicious flavors for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in a microwave until heated through, or place the casserole in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until hot and bubbly again. Cover it loosely with foil during reheating to prevent the top from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, you will need about 1 1/2 pounds. Sauté it until wilted, then squeeze out excess moisture before mixing into the casserole. This will prevent the bake from becoming soggy.
What if I don’t have feta cheese on hand?
Feta cheese is key for that distinct tang, but you can substitute with goat cheese or a crumbly ricotta salata. Keep in mind these alternatives will slightly change the flavor but still keep the creamy texture.
Is this casserole suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or breadcrumbs. Just double-check your cheeses to ensure no additives with gluten.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Sure! Chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms are wonderful additions that complement the spinach and feta flavors beautifully.
How do I make the casserole without nutmeg?
The nutmeg is optional and adds warmth, but if you don’t have it, just omit it. The casserole will still be delicious, as the cheese and spinach provide plenty of flavor.
Final Thoughts
It’s truly hard to resist the charm of the Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe. From the perfect blend of textures to the bright, savory notes that cheese and spinach bring, this dish offers comforting satisfaction every time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself to a wholesome meal, this casserole is guaranteed to impress and nourish. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy spinach with a Mediterranean twist.
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Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish perfect as a main course or side. It features tender spinach combined with tangy feta, creamy cottage cheese, and fragrant Parmesan, all baked to a golden perfection. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this Mediterranean-inspired casserole is both comforting and healthy, ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
Dairy and Eggs
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese or ricotta
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mix casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach with the sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, crumbled feta cheese, cottage or ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, ground nutmeg (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the spinach mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top turns lightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- The casserole can be served hot or at room temperature for versatile dining.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra brightness and freshness.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes to add a Mediterranean twist and depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
