Carol'S Spinach Bread
A savory spinach and cheese stuffed bread perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a delicious appetizer, combining fresh greens, melted cheeses, and toasted bread flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach according to package directions; drain.
- Press spinach between layers of paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Saute onion and garlic in melted butter over medium heat until tender.
- Combine the sautéed onion and garlic, spinach, Cheddar cheese, and Mozzarella cheese; stir well.
- Slice the French bread in half horizontally.
- Spread the spinach mixture evenly on the cut sides of the bread; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Place the prepared bread on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some Italian herbs to the spinach mixture. If you don't have frozen spinach, fresh spinach can be used; just sauté it until wilted and then squeeze out excess moisture. For a twist, try substituting the Mozzarella with feta cheese for a tangy flavor. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spinach bread as an appetizer or a side dish alongside a fresh salad or soup. It pairs beautifully with a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. For a more substantial dish, enjoy it with grilled chicken or a side of Buttered Beans. It's a perfect addition to any gathering or family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carol'S Spinach Bread contains roughly 795 calories, with 9g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (13% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Sauté about 6 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then drain and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This will provide a vibrant flavor and texture.
What can I do if I don't have French bread?
If French bread isn't available, you can substitute it with Italian bread or even a baguette. Just ensure that the bread is sturdy enough to hold the spinach mixture without becoming soggy.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use vegan cheese options for the Cheddar and Mozzarella, and skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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).