Spanakopita Casserole

Discover the Deliciousness of Spanakopita Casserole

If you love the rich flavors of Greek cuisine but dread the intricate preparation of traditional dishes, you’re in for a treat! This Spanakopita Casserole offers all the savory goodness of the classic spinach and feta pie without the fuss of phyllo pastry. In just under an hour, you can serve a comforting main dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spanakopita Casserole captures the essence of Greek flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines the delightful taste of spanakopita into a hearty, pasta-based dish. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens thanks to the spinach. Expect a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• 3-quart (9×13 inch) baking dish
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 16-ounce box penne
• 1 10-ounce box frozen chopped spinach (or 1 pound fresh spinach, chopped)
• 1 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh dill, chopped (or 3 teaspoons dried dill)
• 1 15-ounce tub ricotta cheese
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• 1 8-ounce package part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Begin by cooking the penne pasta on the stovetop for just 5 minutes. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water.
3. Add the spinach to the pot just before draining to allow it to thaw. If you’re using fresh spinach, flash cook it using the same method.
4. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, spinach, reserved pasta water, ricotta cheese, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir in all but 1/4 cup of the feta and mozzarella cheeses.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 3-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining feta and mozzarella cheeses.
6. Bake the casserole covered for 25 minutes.
7. Uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and turn golden.

Tips for Success

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly, make sure not to overcook the pasta initially. It will continue to cook in the oven, absorbing the flavors and achieving the ideal texture. Fresh dill adds a burst of flavor, but dried dill works just as well if that’s what you have on hand.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe. You can add cooked chicken or mushrooms for extra protein and flavor. For a bit of crunch, top the casserole with breadcrumbs before baking. If you like a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is a great source of calcium and iron, thanks to the spinach and cheeses. It’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a day. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing it in an airtight container.
• What can I serve with Spanakopita Casserole? A simple Greek salad or a side of roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with this dish.

Conclusion

Ready to bring a taste of Greece to your dinner table? Try this Spanakopita Casserole and enjoy the delicious flavors with your loved ones. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you’ve added to the recipe!