Stuffed Spinach Casserole
A savory stuffed spinach casserole featuring melted mozzarella, mushrooms, onions, and a crispy crust, perfect for family dinners and spinach lovers seeking comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the bread dough rise to twice its size.
- Divide the dough into thirds. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Pat one-third of the dough into the bottom and sides of a 9x9-inch baker.
- Layer half of the shredded Mozzarella cheese on top of the dough.
- Spread the mixture of thawed spinach, chopped mushrooms, and chopped onions over the cheese.
- Top with the remaining Mozzarella cheese.
- Roll out another one-third of the dough into a 9-inch square. Place it on top of the filling.
- Pinch the sides together to seal the top with the bottom layer.
- Spread pizza sauce and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake for 10 minutes more until golden and bubbly.
- Cut into wedges and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat bread dough or adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you're short on time, pre-made pizza dough can be a great substitute. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid a soggy casserole. You can also enhance flavors with garlic or herbs like oregano. For extra creaminess, mix in some ricotta cheese with the spinach.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed spinach casserole is delicious on its own, but you can serve it alongside a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a light Potato Vegetable Salad for a well-rounded dinner. It's also great as a party dish, cut into smaller pieces for easy serving at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat as it may become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Spinach Casserole contains roughly 295 calories, with 21g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 831mg 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 substitute fresh spinach for frozen. Use about 1 pound of fresh spinach, sauté it until wilted, and then drain any excess liquid before mixing it with the other filling ingredients. This will give your casserole a fresh taste and vibrant color.
What can I use instead of Mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have Mozzarella, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses such as Cheddar and Gouda. Each will give the casserole a different flavor profile while still providing that melty texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).