Get 'Em To Eat Spinach Squares
Cheesy spinach squares with a buttery crust, perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or side—deliciously creamy and savory, great for brunch or lunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place 4 Tbsp. margarine or butter in a 13 x 9-inch pan and bake until melted, then remove from oven and set aside.
- Beat 3 eggs, then add 1 cup flour, 1 cup milk, and 1 tsp baking powder; mix until smooth.
- Stir in 1 lb shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 4 cups chopped fresh spinach (or 2 10-oz packages frozen spinach, thawed and drained).
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Let cool for 30 minutes, then cut into 24 (2-inch) squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs like dill or parsley to the spinach mixture. If you're short on time, frozen spinach is a great alternative; just ensure it's thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture. You can also substitute Monterey Jack cheese with another cheese of your choice, such as cheddar or a blend for a different taste. This recipe is a great way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach squares are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair beautifully with a light salad or a dollop of sour cream for serving. You can also enjoy them warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for picnics or potlucks. For a delightful dessert afterward, consider serving with a slice of Fruit Danish Delight.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled spinach squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Get 'Em To Eat Spinach Squares contains roughly 344 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (12% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack provides a creamy texture, you can substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend to customize the flavor to your liking. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the baking time slightly.
How can I make these squares gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still turn out deliciously!
Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cook any additional vegetables beforehand to reduce moisture in the final dish.
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).