Chalmer'S Spinach Squares
Chalmer's Spinach Squares are savory, cheesy baked squares combining tender spinach, sharp cheddar, and a fluffy egg and flour mixture. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or as a side dish, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Put butter in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and melt in the oven.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven once the butter is melted.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add milk, flour, baking powder, and salt to the eggs and mix well.
- Stir in the grated Cheddar cheese and squeezed dry chopped spinach.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish over the melted butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the cheddar cheese with a lower-fat variety or use Greek yogurt instead of margarine. If you're short on time, pre-packaged shredded cheese works well, but grating your own will enhance the flavor. Make sure to squeeze the spinach thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the squares. This recipe is great for using up leftover Cheddar from dishes like Cheesy Hash.
Serving Suggestions
Chalmer's Spinach Squares are delicious on their own but pair well with a fresh salad or a side of Buttermilk Biscuits, making for a complete meal. They also make an excellent appetizer for gatherings or brunch. Consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or a light vinaigrette for added flavor, or enjoy as a savory snack alongside a cup of Spiced Tea Cake.
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, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1 minute, but the oven method will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chalmer'S Spinach Squares contains roughly 523 calories, with 13g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (48% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1655mg per serving (72% 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 1 lb of fresh spinach. Cook it down until wilted, then squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This will give you a fresher taste and a different texture.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas for each egg. Alternatively, 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth can also work well, ensuring the mixture maintains its binding properties.
How do I ensure the squares are baked evenly?
To ensure even baking, make sure to spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish and rotate it halfway through baking. Also, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
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).