Betty'S Spinach Bread
Betty's Spinach Bread is a savory, cheesy dish combining tender spinach, onions, garlic, and melted cheeses, spread over a layer of frozen garlic bread. Perfect for a quick appetizer or comforting snack, it appeals to cheese lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chopped spinach as directed, then salt to taste. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onions and garlic in butter until fragrant and translucent.
- Add cooked spinach and cream cheese to the sautéed mixture, stirring until combined.
- Mix in the mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper to taste.
- Open the frozen garlic bread and spread the spinach mixture evenly over the bread.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake as directed until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and reducing the amount of butter. If you don't have mozzarella, any melty cheese can work, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar. Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mixture can elevate the flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning as the garlic powder can vary in strength.
Serving Suggestions
This spinach bread makes an excellent appetizer or side dish. Pair it with a fresh salad, like Amy'S Fabulous Fruit Salad, or serve it alongside a hearty soup for a comforting meal. It also works well as a snack for gatherings and can be cut into smaller pieces for easy sharing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bread for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty again. This helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Spinach Bread contains roughly 489 calories, with 16g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 782mg per serving (34% 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 use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! You'll need about 12-14 ounces of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted before adding it to the mixture. Ensure to drain any excess moisture to prevent a soggy bread.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the spinach bread gluten-free, simply use gluten-free garlic bread. Many stores offer a variety of gluten-free breads that will work perfectly. Always check the labels to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients are included.
Can I freeze the spinach mixture before baking?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach mixture ahead of time and freeze it. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight and spread it on the garlic bread before baking.
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).