This Spinach and Cheese Savory Bake is a quick, flavorful dish combining fresh spinach with rich, creamy cheese in a light, fluffy texture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, it uses simple ingredients for an easy-to-make, nutritious meal. With its vibrant flavors and versatility, this bake is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, it’s a wholesome, satisfying dish full of deliciousness.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients:
1 onion, chopped
1 bunch spinach, chopped
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
Black pepper, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
1/4 cup (50 ml) oil
1/2 cup (80 ml) milk
1 tablespoon cream cheese
1 1/4 cups (150 grams) flour
1 teaspoon (8 grams) baking powder
Triangular cheese slices, as needed for topping
Directions:
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Chop the onion and spinach finely.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oil, milk, and cream cheese. Mix until fully combined.
Combine Vegetables:
Stir the chopped onion and spinach into the egg mixture, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually stir in the flour and baking powder until the mixture becomes a smooth batter.
Prepare to Bake:
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with triangular cheese slices.
Bake:
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serve:
Allow to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Serve with crusty bread for a hearty brunch.
Accompany with roasted vegetables for more flavor.
Cooking Tips:
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.
Cheese Options: Swap in mozzarella, cheddar, or feta for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits:
High in Protein: Eggs and cheese provide a strong protein boost.
Rich in Vitamins: Spinach brings in essential vitamins like A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium.
Balanced Meal: This bake offers a well-rounded mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for vegetarians.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):
Calories: 180
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Storage:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients, this dish comes together in no time.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Customizable: Swap out vegetables or cheeses to suit your preferences.
Great for Any Time: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Conclusion:
This Spinach and Cheese Savory Bake is a versatile, nutritious dish that fits into any meal plan. The combination of creamy cheese, fluffy texture, and fresh spinach makes it both satisfying and wholesome. Whether serving it for brunch, a light dinner, or prepping it for later, this bake is bound to become a regular in your kitchen rotation!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Yes, sour cream or Greek yogurt works as a good alternative.
What cheeses work best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or feta are great options.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
How can I prevent it from sticking to the dish?
Grease the dish well with oil or butter, or line with parchment paper.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini are excellent additions.
Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, feel free to use low-fat milk, cheese, and cream cheese to reduce calories.
Is it good for meal prep?
Definitely! It stores well in both the fridge and freezer for easy make-ahead meals.