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.