Pie Pan Spinach
A savory spinach and cheese pie with crispy bacon, perfect for brunch or light dinner, combining flaky pastry with creamy filling and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prick the bottom and sides of the pastry shell with a fork.
- Bake the pastry in a 400°F oven for 3 minutes.
- Prick again where necessary to prevent bubbling.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes. Cool completely.
- Drain the thawed frozen chopped spinach well and set aside.
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet until crisp.
- Remove the bacon and reserve, leaving 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet.
- Chop the cooked bacon and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, beaten eggs, pepper, salt, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, cooked bacon, and drained spinach.
- Pour the mixture into the cooled pastry shell.
- Bake at 375°F for about 30-35 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon instead of pork bacon. You can also swap out Swiss cheese for a lower-fat cheese or even feta for a tangy twist. If you have fresh spinach, you can use that instead of frozen; just sauté it until wilted. Make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid a soggy crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this savory pie with a light salad for a complete meal; a simple green salad or a refreshing Peanut-Pea Salad pairs beautifully. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of Sizzling Pinwheels. This dish is great for brunch, lunch, or as a light dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pie Pan Spinach contains roughly 524 calories, with 15g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 824mg per serving (36% 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 absolutely use fresh spinach! If you do, make sure to sauté it until wilted and then drain it well to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the texture of the pie and prevent a soggy crust.
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature, then bake as directed for perfect results.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you don't have cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great alternative, providing a similar texture. You can also use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and added protein. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may slightly alter the taste and texture of the 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).