Spinach and Cheese Pie (Crustless Spanakopita)

This crustless spinach and cheese pie is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a light meal or snack. Inspired by the classic Greek spanakopita, this version skips the filo pastry but retains the delicious combination of spinach, feta, and herbs. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with nutrients. Serve it warm or at room temperature for breakfast, lunch, or as a side dish.

⏳ Prep & Cook Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

Total Time: 40–45 minutes

This appears to be a type of spinach and cheese pie, possibly similar to Greek spanakopita but without the filo pastry. Here’s a possible recipe for it:

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and drained)

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

4 large eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano or dill

2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil.

Prepare Spinach:

If using fresh spinach, sauté it for 2–3 minutes until wilted, then chop and drain excess liquid. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry.

Mix Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and baking powder.

Combine Everything:

Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Then fold in the spinach and cheeses.

Bake:

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown on top and set in the center.

Cool and Serve:

Allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares.

Tips & Variations for Spinach and Cheese Pie (Crustless Spanakopita)

Tips for the Best Spinach and Cheese Pie:

Drain the Spinach Well: If using frozen spinach, squeeze out as much water as possible to prevent a soggy texture.
Use High-Quality Cheese: Feta provides the best flavor, but a mix of feta, Parmesan, and mozzarella gives extra richness.
Let it Cool Slightly: Allowing the pie to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing helps it set and makes cutting easier.
Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg, a bit of garlic powder, or finely chopped onions for extra depth.
Grease the Baking Dish Well: This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

Variations to Try:

⭐ Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend.
⭐ Air Fryer Version: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes in an air fryer-safe dish.
⭐ Dairy-Free Option: Replace feta with dairy-free cheese and use unsweetened plant-based milk.
⭐ Herb-Infused: Add fresh dill, parsley, or green onions for an aromatic boost.
⭐ Protein Boost: Mix in cooked, crumbled turkey sausage or bacon for a heartier dish.
⭐ Crunchy Top: Sprinkle sesame seeds or crushed nuts over the top before baking for added texture.

Q&A for Spinach and Cheese Pie (Crustless Spanakopita)

Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?

✅ Yes! You can prepare and bake it in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.

Q: Can I freeze it?

✅ Absolutely! Let the pie cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: What can I serve it with?

Serve it with a fresh Greek salad, roasted veggies, or a side of tzatziki for a complete meal.

Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

✅ Yes! Just sauté about 4 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the mixture.

Q: How do I prevent the pie from becoming watery?

Make sure to drain spinach well and avoid adding too much liquid (like extra milk or eggs). If needed, bake a little longer until set.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Square)

(Based on 8 servings, may vary depending on ingredients used)

Calories: ~180 kcal
Protein: ~10g
Carbs: ~8g
Fat: ~12g
Fiber: ~2g
Calcium: ~20% DV