Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake Recipe

There is something truly magical about a dish that brings together vibrant greens, creamy cheese, and rich roasted garlic in a comforting, golden bake. The Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake is a delightful combination that showcases fresh spinach’s earthiness, the tangy saltiness of feta, and the deep, mellow sweetness of roasted garlic. It’s an elegant yet simple dish perfect for any meal of the day or as a stunning side. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for a nourishing and flavorful treat!

Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple ingredients that each play a perfect role in flavor, texture, and color. Every item is easy to find and combined thoughtfully to bring out the best in this Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake.

  • Olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the garlic and onions from sticking while infusing the dish with a fruity aroma.
  • Garlic head: Roasting whole garlic softens its pungency, transforming it into a sweet, spreadable treasure.
  • Medium onion: Provides a gentle sweetness and depth when sautéed until translucent.
  • Fresh spinach: Brings vibrant color, slight earthiness, and a tender texture when wilted.
  • Heavy cream: Adds a luscious creaminess that binds the ingredients and balances the feta’s sharpness.
  • Feta cheese: Brings salty tang and creaminess, perfectly complementing the roasted garlic.
  • Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp umami notes and a golden crust when baked.
  • Large eggs: Help set the bake with a light, custardy texture.
  • Nutmeg: A pinch lends warmth and subtle spice that beautifully enhances the spinach.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and elevating the overall flavors.
  • Panko breadcrumbs: Create a crisp, golden topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior.

How to Make Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off a whole garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle generously with olive oil, then wrap it tightly in foil. Place it in the oven and roast for about 35–40 minutes until the cloves are golden and soft enough to mash. This sweet roasted garlic will be the star that elevates the entire bake.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Wilt the Spinach

While the garlic is roasting, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, which usually takes about 5–6 minutes. Then toss in the fresh chopped spinach and cook just until wilted. This step softens the greens so they blend seamlessly into the custardy filling later.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, mashed roasted garlic cloves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed spinach and onions, crumbled feta, and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture packs a punch of flavor and promises a rich, creamy bite in every forkful of your Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish and Add Breadcrumbs

Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour your spinach and cheese mixture into the dish evenly. Top the mixture with a generous layer of panko breadcrumbs and mist or drizzle just a little olive oil on top. This will help create that irresistible crunchy crust you’ll love.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the dish in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes. Look for a golden, slightly puffed top as your sign that it’s perfectly cooked. Let the bake cool for about 5 minutes before serving—this rest time allows the filling to set for easy slicing and serving.

How to Serve Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake

Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill add a pop of color and freshness to contrast the rich filling. A sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add an elegant finishing touch that makes the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up all the cheesy, garlicky goodness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a simple lemony quinoa salad for balanced textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or brunch, cut the bake into small squares and serve warm as finger food. Layer it into a beautiful vegetable tart shell or stuff it inside puff pastry for a show-stopping twist. Its creamy texture and golden crust make it a versatile crowd-pleaser that can be dressed up or down.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as tasty as the fresh bake.

Freezing

You can freeze this Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that gorgeous crispy breadcrumb topping intact; the oven brings it back to life beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for the Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out any excess water from the spinach to prevent the bake from becoming watery.

Is there a vegetarian or vegan version of this bake?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as is, but to make it vegan, you’d need to substitute the eggs, cream, and cheeses with plant-based alternatives like tofu, coconut cream, and vegan feta-style cheese.

How can I make this bake less rich?

To lighten the dish, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. Adding fresh herbs and lemon zest can also lift the flavors without extra richness.

Can I add other vegetables to the bake?

Absolutely! Diced roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts would pair beautifully with the existing ingredients and add more complexity.

What is the best way to serve this dish for a brunch gathering?

Serve this bake warm, cut into small squares alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and crusty bread. It also pairs well with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any celebratory brunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that feels both comforting and classy, the Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake is an absolute must-try. Its creamy, cheesy texture punctuated by the sweetness of roasted garlic and the freshness of spinach is a winning combination that never gets old. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this flavorful masterpiece—you won’t regret it!

Print

Spinach, Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake Recipe

A delicious and creamy spinach, feta, and roasted garlic bake that combines fresh spinach with tangy feta cheese and roasted garlic for a savory, comforting dish perfect as a side or light main.

  • Author: rami
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Casserole, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking, Roasting, Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Roasted Garlic

  • 1 head garlic, roasted (about 50 g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)

Vegetable Mixture

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (150 g)
  • 10 oz (280 g) fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

Custard Mixture

  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (1 g)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheeses and Topping

  • 4 oz (115 g) feta cheese, crumbled
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • Olive oil mist (for breadcrumb topping)

Instructions

  1. Roast the garlic: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off a garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35–40 minutes until golden and soft.
  2. Sauté onions and spinach: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, roasted garlic cloves (squeezed out of the skin), nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed spinach and onion mixture along with the crumbled feta and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until combined.
  4. Assemble the bake: Pour the combined mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Evenly top with panko breadcrumbs and lightly mist with olive oil to help create a golden crust.
  5. Bake and serve: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is slightly puffed. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  • Roasting garlic mellows its flavor and adds a sweet, rich depth to the bake.
  • Fresh spinach is best, but frozen can be used if thoroughly drained.
  • Adjust salt carefully as feta cheese is naturally salty.
  • Serve warm as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
  • For a crispier topping, you can broil the breadcrumbs for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6th of recipe (about 170 g)
  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 470 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: spinach bake, feta cheese casserole, roasted garlic recipe, vegetarian casserole, Mediterranean spinach dish

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