Savory Spinach and Cheese Bake with Creamy Egg Batter

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This Savory Spinach and Cheese Bake is a wonderfully moist, flavorful, and protein-rich dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. Packed with nutritious spinach, aromatic onions, and a creamy egg-based batter, this bake offers a fluffy, quiche-like texture without the crust. Cream cheese adds richness, while triangular cheese slices on top create a visually appealing golden finish. The balance of herbs and spices enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables, and the soft center makes each bite irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a veggie-packed comfort meal, this spinach bake delivers simplicity and flavor in one wholesome dish.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Comfort Food

Ingredients

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 1 bunch fresh spinach, washed and chopped

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • Black pepper, to taste

  • Garlic powder, to taste

  • ¼ cup (50 ml) oil (sunflower, olive, or vegetable)

  • ½ cup (80 ml) milk

  • 1 tablespoon cream cheese

  • 1¼ cups (150 grams) all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon (8 grams) baking powder

  • Triangular cheese slices (e.g., processed cheese wedges), as needed for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a medium baking dish (9×9 inch or equivalent). You may also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

  2. Chop the Onion and Spinach
    Finely chop the onion and fresh spinach. If using baby spinach, there’s no need to remove stems; otherwise, trim any tough stems.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

  1. Whisk the Eggs
    In a large mixing bowl, crack in the eggs and beat until smooth and slightly frothy.

  2. Add Flavor and Dairy
    Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oil, milk, and cream cheese. Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend until the cream cheese is fully incorporated.

Combine with Vegetables

  1. Fold in Onion and Spinach
    Add the chopped onion and spinach to the egg mixture. Stir well to ensure even distribution. The batter will become dense and colorful.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

  1. Add Flour and Baking Powder
    Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder. Mix gently until a smooth, uniform batter forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.

Prepare for Baking

  1. Transfer to Baking Dish
    Pour the batter into the greased or lined baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.

  2. Top with Cheese
    Place triangular cheese slices evenly across the top. Press them slightly into the surface of the batter so they melt attractively.

Bake the Dish

  1. Bake
    Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  2. Cool Slightly and Slice
    Let the bake rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing into squares or wedges. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)

  • Calories: 210

  • Protein: 9g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 2g

  • Sodium: 320mg

Origin and Popularity

Spinach bakes like this are inspired by Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisine, where leafy greens, cheese, and eggs are often baked together in pies and casseroles. Think of it as a crustless spanakopita or a simplified frittata. These dishes are beloved for their simplicity, flexibility, and comforting nature. The use of triangular processed cheese slices adds a nostalgic touch and creamy texture that melts beautifully during baking. With the rise of low-carb and vegetable-centric eating, savory bakes like this have become popular alternatives to carb-heavy casseroles.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: No need for dough or complicated prep

  • Healthy and Filling: Packed with iron-rich spinach and protein-rich eggs

  • Flexible: Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner

  • Kid-Friendly: Mild flavor, soft texture, and cheesy topping

  • Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully

  • Visually Appealing: Cheese triangles add a charming, golden finish

Health Benefits

This savory bake isn’t just tasty—it’s good for you, too:

  • Spinach: High in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and K

  • Eggs: Great source of high-quality protein and healthy fats

  • Onion and Garlic Powder: Provide antioxidants and immune support

  • Dairy: Offers calcium and probiotics when using real cream cheese

  • Low Carb Option: Lower in carbs than traditional casseroles or pies

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Side Salad: Serve with cucumber-tomato salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette

  • For Breakfast: Pair with a smoothie or fruit bowl

  • For Brunch: Serve with roasted potatoes and fresh bread

  • For Dinner: Enjoy with grilled chicken or soup

  • On the Go: Wrap slices in foil and take for lunch or a picnic

Cooking Tips

  • Use Fresh Spinach: Avoid frozen spinach unless thoroughly drained

  • Cream Cheese at Room Temp: It blends easier into the batter

  • Cheese Slices Variation: Use grated cheese or feta if triangles aren’t available

  • Bake Until Golden: Don’t underbake—color equals flavor and structure

  • Let It Rest Before Slicing: Helps hold its shape and improves texture

Variations

  • Add Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or basil can brighten the flavor

  • Include Feta or Ricotta: For more Mediterranean flair

  • Make It Spicy: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños

  • Add Protein: Mix in diced cooked chicken or turkey

  • Make It Vegan: Use egg replacer, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese

Conclusion

This Savory Spinach and Cheese Bake with Creamy Egg Batter is the kind of versatile, comforting dish that fits any time of day. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and absolutely delicious. With its fluffy texture, melty cheese top, and nourishing ingredients, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen—perfect for meal prepping, potlucks, or casual family meals. It’s wholesome, homey, and heartwarming with every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw it and squeeze out all excess water before adding to the batter.

2. What if I don’t have triangular cheese slices?
Use grated mozzarella, cheddar, or small dollops of cream cheese on top instead.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare, bake, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. Can I freeze this bake?
Absolutely. Slice into portions, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. You can also do half whole wheat, half all-purpose.

6. What kind of cream cheese should I use?
Any plain cream cheese works—regular or light. You can also use herbed varieties for extra flavor.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written. To make it gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and check your baking powder.

8. What other vegetables can I add?
Grated zucchini, corn, mushrooms, or bell peppers all work well—just avoid excess moisture.

9. Can I use only egg whites?
Yes, but the bake will be slightly less rich and fluffy.

10. Can I make this in muffin form?
Absolutely. Divide into greased muffin tins and bake for about 18–22 minutes.

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