Greek Feta and Spinach Potato Casserole

When a dish can serve as both comfort food and a nutritional powerhouse, you know you’ve stumbled upon a winner. Imagine sitting down to a warm, golden casserole bubbling with layers of silky potatoes, vibrant spinach, and tangy Greek feta, coaxing you into relaxation after a long day. With almost 39% of our daily recommended intake of Vitamin A in just one potion, this Greek Feta and Spinach Potato Casserole not only satisfies your craving for something hearty but also offers a delightful twist on your standard dinner fare. Trust me, your family will thank you for bringing this veggie-rich delight to the table.

Print

Why This Greek Feta and Spinach Potato Casserole Is a Must-Make

If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers on both flavor and nutrition, look no further. This Greek Feta and Spinach Potato Casserole brings a delightful balance of creamy and crunchy textures, with a hint of zest from the lemon. Imagine the earthy flavor of Yukon Gold potatoes intertwined with robust feta, brightened by fresh mint and the peppery bite of cayenne. This dish not only pleases the palate but also serves as an excellent way to sneak veggies into your family’s dinner routine without them even realizing it!

What You’ll Need

• 2 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and halved
• 8 ounces spinach
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves peeled garlic
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Cayenne pepper, to taste
• 1 large egg
• 6 ounces Greek feta, crumbled, divided
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

Let’s Cook

1. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water; bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until barely tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Drain well and allow to cool to room temperature.
4. Meanwhile, add spinach to a dry saucepan over medium-high heat and wilt, turning continuously with tongs so it doesn’t burn, for 1 to 2 minutes.
5. Transfer wilted spinach to a high container.
6. Add water, olive oil, peeled garlic, green onions, lemon zest, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, egg, 1/2 of the feta cheese, and mint leaves to the container.
7. Puree using an immersion blender until well combined.
8. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
9. Slice potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place in a bowl.
10. Pour spinach mixture over sliced potatoes and toss well until each slice is evenly coated.
11. Transfer the mixture to a shallow baking dish, smooth the top, and sprinkle with remaining feta cheese.
12. Bake on the center rack in the preheated oven until the edges of the feta start to just turn golden, approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
13. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Breakdown

This casserole serves about six generous portions, with each serving containing roughly 320 calories, 12 grams of protein, 40 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of fat. You’ll also benefit from about 5 grams of dietary fiber. With a healthy dose of spinach, this dish provides an excellent source of Vitamin K along with various essential minerals. Who knew comfort food could be so good for you?

How to Serve It Best

Serve this Greek Feta and Spinach Potato Casserole warm, and watch as it becomes the star of your dinner table. Pair it with a light lemony salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing contrast. It’s perfect for family gatherings or as a savory centerpiece during any holiday feast—because who doesn’t love a versatile dish that channels the essence of comfort food?

Smart Reheat Tricks

To store your delicious leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to savor it for a bit longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. For reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and then pop it back in a 350-degree F oven for about 20-25 minutes. Pro tip: Cover with foil during the first part of reheating to keep it moist!

Pro Tips

1. For creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the spinach mixture before blending.
2. If you’re a fan of crispy edges, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
3. Experiment with your greens—switch spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
4. Make sure not to overcook the potatoes; you want them tender but not falling apart to hold their shape in the casserole.
5. Garnish with additional fresh mint just before serving for a bright pop of color and freshness!

Flavor Experiments

1. Seasonal Twist: Toss in some roasted butternut squash for a fall-inspired casserole that’s a real crowd-pleaser.
2. Gourmet Variation: Substitute the Greek feta with a roasted garlic goat cheese for a sophisticated flavor addition.
3. Playful Take: Add a splash of buffalo sauce for a fiery twist, perfect for those who love a little extra kick in their meals.

Learn from My Mistakes

1. Overcooking the spinach can result in a mushy texture—keep an eye on it and just wilt, don’t fully cook.
2. Skipping the cooling time for potatoes can lead to a watery casserole; let them cool fully for optimal texture.
3. Forgetting to season during the blending can lead to a bland casserole; season each layer as you go for better depth of flavor.
4. Not greasing the baking dish will lead to a sticky mess—always use a splash of oil or cooking spray.
5. Ignoring the resting time after baking will result in a casserole that falls apart upon serving—allow it to set for a few minutes!

Creative Second-Day Ideas

1. Transform leftovers into a comforting breakfast fritatta—simply whisk eggs, combine with the casserole, and bake!
2. Mix leftovers into a hearty soup base alongside vegetable broth for a cozy dish that warms the soul.
3. Use the casserole as a filling for stuffed peppers, topped with a sprinkle of extra feta for a delightful twist!

Curious Cooks Ask

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve—easy as pie!

What can I use instead of Greek feta? If you’re not a fan of feta, try using crumbled goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier taste and different texture. Both are delicious alternatives!

Can I add meat to this casserole? Sure! Cooked ground chicken or lamb can easily be incorporated into the layers for added protein and flavor. Just mix it into the spinach blend!

Is this dish gluten-free? Yes! All of the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy!