Joanne'S Spinach Squares
Creamy spinach squares with sharp cheddar cheese and a buttery crust, perfect as a savory snack or appetizer for family gatherings and casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt butter in a baking pan; remove and cool.
- Mix eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, and salt well.
- Add spinach, cheese, and diced onion; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Let stand for 15 minutes before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you don't have sharp Cheddar cheese, mild Cheddar or a blend of cheeses can work as substitutes. To save time, use pre-chopped frozen spinach, and ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the squares. This recipe is versatile and can easily accommodate other vegetables or herbs you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach squares make a delightful appetizer or side dish and pair beautifully with a fresh salad or a bowl of Creamy Cabbage Soup for a light meal. They can also be served as a hearty breakfast option alongside eggs or bacon. For a vegetarian spread, consider adding a fruit platter or serving with a dipping sauce.
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 until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will help maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joanne'S Spinach Squares contains roughly 709 calories, with 13g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (50% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1578mg per serving (69% 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?
Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, you'll need about 10-12 ounces. Sauté it briefly in a pan until wilted, then drain and chop before adding it to the mixture. Fresh spinach will provide a vibrant flavor and texture to the squares.
How can I make these squares gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder, are certified gluten-free. This adjustment will ensure that the texture remains similar to the original recipe.
Can I freeze the spinach squares?
Yes, these squares freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).