Spinach Squish
Spinach Squish is a cheesy, savory casserole featuring tender spinach combined with ricotta, cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella. Flavored with herbs and baked to perfection, it's a comforting dish ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, offering a delightful mix of creamy textures and fresh herb notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Allow frozen spinach to thaw and then squish out as much water as possible in a colander; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, eggs, flour, ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, dried parsley, dried basil, and salt. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the spinach mixture. If you're short on ricotta, you can substitute it with additional cottage cheese for a similar texture. For a gluten-free version, try using almond flour instead of regular flour. Always ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spinach Squish as a main dish, paired with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also makes a delicious side dish alongside chicken or fish. For a comforting meal, consider serving it with Parmesan Peas for a delightful vegetarian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Squish contains roughly 481 calories, with 17g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1169mg per serving (51% 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, fresh spinach can be used! You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Cook it down in a pan until wilted, then drain and squish out excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This gives a fresh flavor and texture to your Spinach Squish.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the ricotta and cottage cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese or tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Use a dairy-free mozzarella for the topping, ensuring all ingredients align with your dietary preferences.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and place it in the baking dish a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the mozzarella and cook as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).