Artichoke Cheese Squares
Cheesy, savory artichoke squares with a crunchy cracker crust, perfect as an appetizer or party snack for cheese lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the artichoke hearts, reserving about 2 tablespoons of marinade.
- Saute the chopped onion in the reserved marinade until softened; drain excess marinade.
- Combine the drained onion with the drained artichoke hearts, beaten eggs, crushed saltine crackers, and remaining marinade.
- Mix well after each addition to combine ingredients thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until set and golden.
- Cool thoroughly before cutting into 1-inch squares.
- Reheat squares before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If you don't have saltine crackers, crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. Make sure to drain the artichoke hearts thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the squares.
Serving Suggestions
These Artichoke Cheese Squares are delicious served warm or at room temperature. They make a great appetizer for parties or a light lunch option. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve alongside a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch. They also complement well with dishes from American recipes, adding a flavorful twist to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be cautious not to overheat, as they may become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Artichoke Cheese Squares contains roughly 932 calories, with 24g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1147mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and pour it into the baking dish a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
What can I use instead of marinated artichoke hearts?
If you can't find marinated artichoke hearts, you can use canned or frozen artichokes. Just be sure to marinate them in olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for a few hours to replicate the flavor. This will enhance the dish significantly.
Can I freeze the artichoke cheese squares?
Yes, these squares freeze well! After baking and cooling, cut them into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Just reheat from frozen when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).