Description
This Spinach Casserole with Feta Cheese is a delicious Greek-inspired vegetarian dish that combines fresh spinach, creamy cheeses, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect as a main course or a flavorful side dish, it’s easy to prepare and bakes to a golden brown perfection, delivering a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or use frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
Cheeses and Dairy
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until it softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its fragrance.
- Cook the spinach: Add the fresh or thawed spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted or warmed through. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly to prevent curdling in the next step.
- Combine the filling: In a large bowl, mix the spinach mixture with the crumbled feta, ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the spinach and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the surface of the casserole to create a satisfying crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set in the center when gently shaken.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to help it set further and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- This casserole works wonderfully as a hearty vegetarian main dish or as a flavorful side.
- Enhance the flavor by adding fresh dill or parsley to the filling mixture.
- You can prepare this dish a day ahead and refrigerate it; simply bake it just before serving for maximum freshness.
