Easy Feta and Spinach Casserole
Easy Feta and Spinach Casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe embodies simplicity and satisfaction, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend brunches. With vibrant greens enveloped in creamy cheeses and all bound together by wholesome eggs, this casserole is a celebration of flavor that is sure to please family and guests alike. What’s more? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for cooks of all skill levels. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a dish that’s not only nourishing but also unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the standout features of this Easy Feta and Spinach Casserole is its uncomplicated preparation. You can whip up this dish in no time, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. With minimal ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple—just frozen spinach, a few cheeses, and eggs come together to create a hearty meal.
Moreover, this casserole is not only comforting but also highly nutritious. Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, while feta and cottage cheese provide a creamy richness without overwhelming heaviness. Plus, it’s baked to perfection, creating a light, fluffy texture that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach – Thawed and drained, this vibrant green ingredient serves as the star of the dish, infusing it with refreshing flavor.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese – Creamy and tangy, feta adds a delightful burst of savory goodness, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
- 1 cup cottage cheese – This smooth, creamy ingredient boosts the casserole’s richness while keeping it light and fluffy.
- 4 large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together, eggs ensure the casserole holds its shape and adds protein to the mix.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped – Adding an aromatic base, the sweet flavor of the onion complements the earthy spinach beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings depth and a warm, savory aroma to the dish, making every bite more satisfying.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, balancing the savory and creamy elements.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick that elevates the dish’s overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing) – This adds a rich, savory note to the sautéed onions and garlic, enhancing the dish even more.
Step-by-Step Directions
Thaw the Spinach: Make sure the frozen spinach is completely thawed. To remove excess moisture, wring it out in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step is crucial for a perfect casserole consistency.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained spinach, sautéed onion and garlic, crumbled feta, cottage cheese, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until fully combined.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish of your choice. Pour the spinach mixture into the dish, smoothing the top for an even bake.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 35–40 minutes. It should be firm and lightly golden on top when done.
Rest and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set and makes cutting easier.
Tips & Tricks
- Fresh Spinach: If you prefer fresh over frozen, you can use fresh spinach instead. Just sauté it until wilted before adding it to the mixture.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the cheeses and eggs with vegan alternatives for a plant-based version of this casserole.
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add fresh or dried herbs such as dill or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheese Variations: You can mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Ricotta or mozzarella can be great substitutes.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Easy Feta and Spinach Casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standalone dish, or pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal. It’s perfect for brunch alongside fresh fruit, or you can enjoy it with crusty bread for dinner. For an elegant touch, serve it with a glass of chilled sparkling water or a refreshing herbal tea.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this casserole is packed with protein and essential nutrients. On average, a slice contains approximately 180 calories, with a generous helping of vitamins A and C from the spinach, thanks to its essence and versatility.
Storing Tips & Variations
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole can last for up to 3 days in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Consider transforming this casserole by adding ingredients such as cooked chicken or other vegetables for varied textures and flavors.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying dish, the Easy Feta and Spinach Casserole is the perfect recipe to try. It’s simple enough for a weekday meal but impressive enough for company. A comforting dish that’s bound to become a family favorite, it captures the essence of home-cooked goodness. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and share your experiences in the comments below!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh spinach in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach for frozen. Just sauté it until wilted before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute with vegan cheeses and consider egg replacements such as flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer.
3. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to include diced bell peppers, tomatoes, or even mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
4. How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the top is lightly golden and the center is firm. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
5. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it when you are ready to serve!
Easy Feta and Spinach Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy casserole combining feta, spinach, and eggs, perfect for weeknight dinners or brunch.
Ingredients
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Thaw the spinach and remove excess moisture.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained spinach, sautéed onion and garlic, feta, cottage cheese, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Grease a baking dish and pour the spinach mixture into it, smoothing the top.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes until firm and lightly golden on top.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute cheeses and eggs with plant-based alternatives. You can also add fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
