Herbed Spinach Bake
Herbed Spinach Bake is a savory, cheesy dish combining tender spinach with aromatic herbs and melted cheddar. Perfect as a side or light main, it appeals to vegetarians and cheese lovers alike, offering a comforting, flavorful experience with a touch of warmth from baked eggs and herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the frozen chopped spinach.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, cooked rice, eggs, softened butter, chopped onion, salt, Worcestershire sauce, shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, milk, and crushed rosemary and thyme.
- Pour the mixture into a 10 x 6 x 1 1/2-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture. If you don't have sharp Cheddar cheese, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, use quinoa instead of rice. Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to avoid a watery bake.
Serving Suggestions
This Herbed Spinach Bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt sauce for added creaminess. For a heartier meal, consider accompanying it with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Spinach Bake contains roughly 450 calories, with 15g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 721mg per serving (31% 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 pound of fresh spinach, which should be cooked down to match the volume of 10 oz. frozen chopped spinach. Be sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Herbed Spinach Bake freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cut it into squares and store them in an airtight container or freezer bags. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the refrigerator 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).