Spinach And Feta Egg Bake
Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Favorites
I absolutely love how easy and nutritious this Spinach and Feta Egg Bake is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a delicious dish that serves perfectly for breakfast or brunch. The combination of spinach's earthy flavor with tangy feta cheese makes for a delightful contrast that has become a family favorite. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to whip up and pop in the oven, making it a go-to recipe for busy mornings or leisurely weekends.
When I first tried making this Spinach and Feta Egg Bake, I was blown away by how simple it is to transform basic ingredients into something spectacular. I learned that pre-sautéing the spinach adds depth of flavor and helps release moisture, which prevents the dish from becoming soggy. Plus, baking it allows the eggs to puff up beautifully, creating a comforting and fluffy texture.
One memorable morning, I tweaked the recipe by adding a pinch of nutmeg, which elevated the flavors and was an instant hit with my family. The balance between the creamy feta and fresh spinach is just heavenly, making it my go-to brunch dish whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy feta cheese that perfectly complements the spinach
- Easy to prepare and bake, ideal for any meal of the day
- Packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice
Perfecting Texture and Flavor
To achieve the best texture in your Spinach and Feta Egg Bake, be sure to cook the spinach just until it's wilted, around 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and diminish its vibrant color. Once cooled, this sautéed spinach adds not only moisture but also a subtle earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy feta, ensuring every bite is loaded with balanced flavors.
The key to achieving a fluffy egg bake lies in how thoroughly you whisk your egg mixture. Take a moment to whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy. This aeration is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, which makes the final dish light and airy rather than dense. I recommend using a whisk instead of a fork for the best results.
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
If you're looking to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, consider replacing the feta cheese with a vegan alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy. For a different twist, you could swap out half of the spinach for kale or Swiss chard, both of which provide excellent nutrients and a similar earthy taste while adding variety.
For those who prefer a spicier dish, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the egg mixture can bring a delightful kick. Alternatively, mixing in sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes can add an unexpected burst of flavor and texture, complementing the existing ingredients without overpowering them.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Egg Bake Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Sauté the Spinach
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese, stirring to combine.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and lightly golden on top.
Serve
Let the egg bake cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Spinach and Feta Egg Bake!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also substitute the feta with goat cheese if preferred.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Spinach and Feta Egg Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure not to bake it until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld while maintaining the freshness of the ingredients. If you choose this route, remember to bring it to room temperature before baking, as placing a cold dish directly in the oven can result in uneven cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing the egg bake. Cut it into individual portions before freezing for convenience. To reheat, simply pop a piece in the microwave or oven until warmed through, which will typically take about 5-10 minutes, ensuring you get that fantastic freshly baked taste back.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this egg bake with a simple side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal. The refreshing crunch of a garden salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette can enhance the savory flavors of the dish. Alternatively, serving it alongside crusty whole-grain bread or toasted bagels creates a filling brunch spread.
For special occasions, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top before serving. These additions brighten the dish and provide a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the feta and eggs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients and refrigerate overnight. Just bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.
→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just let the egg bake cool completely, then slice and freeze it in an airtight container.
→ Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes; however, be aware that the texture may vary slightly.
→ What can I serve with the egg bake?
It's great on its own or served with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal.
Spinach And Feta Egg Bake
I absolutely love how easy and nutritious this Spinach and Feta Egg Bake is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a delicious dish that serves perfectly for breakfast or brunch. The combination of spinach's earthy flavor with tangy feta cheese makes for a delightful contrast that has become a family favorite. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to whip up and pop in the oven, making it a go-to recipe for busy mornings or leisurely weekends.
Created by: Chloe Baker
Recipe Type: Simple Healthy Meals Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Egg Bake Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese, stirring to combine.
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and lightly golden on top.
Let the egg bake cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Spinach and Feta Egg Bake!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also substitute the feta with goat cheese if preferred.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
- Sodium: 380mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 12g