Spinach and Cheese Squares

Introduction

These Spinach and Cheese Squares are the ultimate savory bite-sized comfort! Packed with creamy ricotta, tangy feta, and nutty Parmesan, each square is rich, satisfying, and perfectly golden on top. Whether served warm from the oven or cooled to room temp, they make an excellent appetizer, brunch treat, or meatless lunchbox option.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, feta, and Parmesan. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, flour, nutmeg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Pour the egg mixture into the cheese and spinach bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and set. A toothpick should come out clean.
  7. Let cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Variation

  1. Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions – For extra savory depth, fold in about 1/2 cup of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions before baking. They pair beautifully with the spinach and cheeses, giving each bite a richer umami flavor.
  2. Use different greens like kale or Swiss chard – Swap out the spinach for finely chopped kale or Swiss chard if you’d like a heartier green. Just be sure to cook and soften tougher greens before mixing them in.
  3. Make it spicy with a dash of chili flakes or jalapeños – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a kick of heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheeses.

Cooking Notes

  • Drain excess moisture from the spinach – Whether using fresh or frozen spinach, be sure to press out any moisture. Too much liquid can prevent the squares from setting properly.
  • Use room temperature eggs and cheeses – Bringing your ingredients to room temperature before mixing helps them blend more smoothly and evenly.
  • Don’t overbake – Keep a close eye in the last 5 minutes. Overbaking can dry out the squares, so pull them when the top is just golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve as a brunch bite with fresh fruit or salad – These squares are perfect for brunch platters. Pair them with a light side like a citrus salad or fresh melon for a refreshing contrast.
  2. Cut into smaller pieces for party appetizers – Slice them into mini squares or even triangles, insert toothpicks, and serve warm or at room temp as a crowd-pleasing finger food.
  3. Enjoy with a side of tomato soup – For a comforting meal, serve a warm square with a bowl of creamy tomato soup. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

Tips

  • Line your baking dish with parchment for easy removal – It makes cleanup a breeze and helps you lift the entire bake out for perfect slicing.
  • Mix gently but thoroughly – Stir just enough to incorporate everything evenly without overmixing, which could lead to a dense texture.
  • Let it cool slightly before cutting – Giving the bake a few minutes to rest helps it firm up, making slicing cleaner and neater for serving.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Protein: 11 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
    Yes! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This keeps the squares from becoming soggy.

  2. Can these be made ahead of time?
    Absolutely. You can prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate. Just reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes before serving to bring back the warmth and texture.

  3. Can I make this gluten-free?
    Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. The texture may vary slightly but it will still hold together well.

  4. How should I store leftovers?
    Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.

Conclusion

These Spinach and Cheese Squares are simple, satisfying, and full of savory flavor perfect for brunch spreads, light lunches, or healthy snacks on the go. With a creamy texture, golden top, and plenty of cheesy goodness, they’re sure to be a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spinach and Cheese Squares


  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Spinach and Cheese Squares are the ultimate savory bite-sized comfort! Packed with creamy ricotta, tangy feta, and nutty Parmesan, each square is rich, satisfying, and perfectly golden on top. Whether served warm from the oven or cooled to room temp, they make an excellent appetizer, brunch treat, or meatless lunchbox option.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, feta, and Parmesan. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, flour, nutmeg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Pour the egg mixture into the cheese and spinach bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and set. A toothpick should come out clean.
  7. Let cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • You can substitute frozen spinach (thawed and well-drained) if fresh isn’t available.
  • Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
  • These squares reheat well in the oven or air fryer perfect for meal prep.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack, Brunch
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 11 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg

Keywords: spinach and cheese squares, spinach egg bake, ricotta spinach recipe, cheesy spinach bites

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating