If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances creamy textures, vibrant flavors, and wholesome ingredients, this Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender spinach mingling with tangy feta, rich ricotta, and a hint of nutmeg, baked to golden perfection. It’s a cozy, Mediterranean-inspired bake that feels both comforting and fresh, making it a fantastic choice whether you’re serving a weeknight family dinner or impressing guests with a wholesome vegetarian delight. This casserole truly brings together simple ingredients that shine together in one savory, satisfying dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is delightfully easy because it relies on straightforward ingredients that each bring their own special touch. From the silky ricotta to the salty, crumbly feta, every component plays a crucial role in crafting the casserole’s luscious taste, appealing texture, and inviting color.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the onions, giving a lovely aromatic base.
- 1 small onion (finely chopped): Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed gently.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a subtle pungency that brightens the whole dish.
- 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed dry): The star leafy green that packs nutrients and vibrant color.
- 4 large eggs: These bind everything together, ensuring the casserole holds its shape when sliced.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, mild richness that balances the stronger cheeses.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: Gives a delicious tang and crumbly texture that defines this casserole.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a nutty, savory note enhancing overall flavor complexity.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the mixture moist and smooth before baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and aromatic depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle warm spice that complements the spinach and cheeses beautifully.
How to Make Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
First things first, set your oven to 350°F so it’s nice and ready when your ingredients are mixed. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to ensure the casserole browns evenly without losing any of that delicious cheesy crust.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it cook gently for about 4 to 5 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Add the minced garlic and give it another 30 seconds in the pan—enough to release its aroma without burning. This sizzling combo forms the perfect flavorful base for your casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Transfer those tender onions and garlic to a large mixing bowl. Add the thawed and thoroughly squeezed spinach to avoid sogginess. Then, crack in the eggs and spoon in the ricotta, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, and pour the milk in as well. Finally, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir everything together until you have a uniform, creamy mixture ready to be baked.
Step 4: Bake Your Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is lightly golden and the casserole feels set in the center. Allow it to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing—it helps everything firm up perfectly for serving.
How to Serve Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten your lovely casserole, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or dill on top just before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few halved cherry tomatoes can add fresh color and exciting flavor contrasts that harmonize beautifully with the feta’s tang.
Side Dishes
This spinach casserole shines as a hearty vegetarian main, but also pairs wonderfully with side dishes like roasted potatoes, crisp green salads, or even grilled Mediterranean vegetables. It’s flexible enough to accompany your favorite proteins too, such as lemon herb chicken or baked fish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try scooping portions into individual ramekins and baking in smaller servings for personal presentations. Alternatively, serve it warm alongside slices of crusty bread or pita for a Mediterranean-inspired spread that’s perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, you can cover the casserole tightly and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its creamy texture and rich flavors without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save portions for later, the casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place in airtight containers. Frozen leftovers can be kept for up to 2 months without a significant loss in taste or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the casserole after refrigeration or freezing, reheat it gently in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning, removing it toward the end for a crisp top if desired.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach works great—simply sauté it until wilted and drain well before mixing. This keeps your casserole from becoming watery while giving it a fresher taste.
Is this Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it naturally gluten-free and great for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the casserole?
Definitely. Fresh parsley, dill, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can add extra flavor layers to the dish without overpowering the delicate cheese and spinach blend.
Could I make this casserole vegan?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy and eggs for flavor and texture, but you can experiment with plant-based cheeses, tofu, and egg substitutes to create a vegan-friendly version, though results may vary.
How many servings does this casserole make?
The recipe yields about 6 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or to share with friends.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the wholesome goodness of spinach paired with bold, tangy cheese. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and reliably delicious, making it a staple worth having in your recipe collection. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the cozy, cheesy comfort this casserole brings to the table!
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Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese is a delicious Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian dish combining sautéed spinach, savory cheeses, and fragrant spices baked to perfection. Ideal as a main course or a hearty side, it’s a healthy and satisfying recipe featuring creamy ricotta, tangy feta, and Parmesan cheese, lightly seasoned with garlic, nutmeg, and black pepper.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
Dairy & Eggs
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesnÂ’t stick.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to a large mixing bowl. Add the thawed and well-drained chopped spinach, then add the eggs, ricotta cheese, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, milk, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir everything together thoroughly until you achieve a uniform mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, until the casserole is set in the center and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes. This resting time helps the casserole firm up and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Notes
- Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just sauté and drain it well before mixing.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- This casserole makes a great vegetarian main dish or a flavorful side to complement roasted meats.
