This Spinach and Cheese Savory Bake is a quick, flavorful dish that combines fresh spinach with rich, creamy cheese in a light, fluffy texture. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, and 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 yourself or a crowd, this dish is wholesome, satisfying, and 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:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Chop the onion and spinach finely. - Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oil, milk, and cream cheese. Mix until well combined. - Combine with Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and spinach to the egg mixture. Stir well to distribute evenly. - Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour and baking powder, stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms. - Prepare for Baking:
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with triangular cheese slices. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Serve:
Let the bake cool slightly, then cut into squares or slices. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Enjoy with crusty bread for a hearty brunch.
- Add roasted vegetables on the side for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined for a light, fluffy bake.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to use mozzarella, cheddar, or feta for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Protein: Eggs and cheese provide a solid source of protein.
- Rich in Vitamins: Spinach adds vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
- Balanced Meal: This dish offers a well-rounded balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Can be Gluten-Free: Swap out the flour with a gluten-free alternative to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
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 in the refrigerator 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: Made with simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or cheeses to suit your preferences.
- Perfect Anytime: Great for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.
Conclusion:
This Spinach and Cheese Savory Bake is a versatile, nutritious dish that fits seamlessly into any meal. Its combination of creamy cheese, fluffy texture, and fresh spinach makes it both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, as a light dinner, or enjoying leftovers for meal prep, this bake is an all-around winner. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the mixture. - Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a replacement. - What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or feta are great options. You can choose your favorite! - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - How do I prevent the bake from sticking to the dish?
Grease the dish well with butter or oil, or line it with parchment paper. - Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini are great additions. - Can this recipe be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. - How do I know when the bake is done?
The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. - Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, using low-fat milk, cheese, and cream cheese is a great way to reduce the calorie content. - Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.