Savory Spinach Croissant Bake
Highlighted under: Bakeshop Favorites
I absolutely love making this Savory Spinach Croissant Bake for brunch gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The flaky croissants soak up the creamy spinach and cheese filling, creating a dish that's indulgent yet comforting. It feels like a warm hug on a plate! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to use leftover croissants, which I often have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it both delicious and a bit nutritious.
Making this dish for the first time was a delightful experience. I remember the scent of buttery croissants filling the kitchen as they baked, mingling perfectly with the sautéed spinach and melted cheese. The loose filling creates a wonderfully creamy texture that absorbs into the croissants, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
What I found most remarkable was how the flavors meld together — the garlic adds depth while the nutmeg provides a surprising warmth. If you want to really elevate this dish, consider adding a sprinkle of feta on top before baking for that extra kick!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky croissants infused with savory spinach and cheese
- A great way to use leftover croissants creatively
- Comfort food that’s perfect for brunch or dinner
Understanding the Ingredients
The choice of croissants is crucial in this recipe. Fresh, flaky croissants provide the best texture, soaking up the creamy filling while maintaining a nice bite. If you’re using day-old croissants, consider preheating them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes before assembly to refresh them. This step enhances their flavor and helps them absorb the filling without becoming too soggy during baking.
Spinach is not just a filler in this dish; it adds a natural earthiness that complements the richness of the cheeses. Fresh spinach is preferred for its vibrant flavor and texture, but you can substitute frozen spinach if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to remove excess moisture, which can make the filling watery.
Perfecting the Technique
When sautéing the spinach, be cautious not to overcook it. You want the spinach to wilt but still retain a bright green color—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Overcooked spinach can lose its nutrients and flavor, leading to a less vibrant dish. Keep the heat at medium and stir regularly to ensure even cooking.
As you mix the egg and milk base, whisk until thoroughly blended. This helps aerate the mixture, resulting in a light and fluffy texture once baked. Don’t skip adding nutmeg; it elevates the flavor profile and pairs beautifully with the spinach and cheeses. Just a pinch can significantly enhance the overall dish, making it feel more gourmet.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful dish.
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, split
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Once you've gathered everything, you're ready to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your Savory Spinach Croissant Bake.
Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté the Spinach
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Stir in the ricotta and half of the mozzarella. Add the sautéed spinach and mix until well combined.
Assemble the Bake
Arrange the split croissants in a greased baking dish. Pour the spinach mixture over the croissants, ensuring they are well soaked. Top with remaining mozzarella.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is set.
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes or herbs like dill or basil into the filling.
Make-Ahead Tips
This Savory Spinach Croissant Bake can easily be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature for even cooking.
For storing leftovers, let the bake cool completely before cutting it into portions. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad contrasts nicely with the rich and creamy bake. For brunch gatherings, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a selection of pastries to create a well-rounded buffet spread.
You can also customize this recipe based on your taste preferences! For instance, adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes can offer additional layers of flavor. If you want a different cheese profile, feta or goat cheese can introduce a tangy note. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use stale croissants for this recipe?
Absolutely! Stale croissants soak up the custard mixture beautifully and add more flavor.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ Is there a vegetarian option?
This recipe is already vegetarian. Just keep an eye on any additional toppings you add!
→ What can I serve with this bake?
A light salad or some fresh fruit makes a perfect side for this rich dish.
Savory Spinach Croissant Bake
I absolutely love making this Savory Spinach Croissant Bake for brunch gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The flaky croissants soak up the creamy spinach and cheese filling, creating a dish that's indulgent yet comforting. It feels like a warm hug on a plate! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to use leftover croissants, which I often have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it both delicious and a bit nutritious.
Created by: Georgia Lane
Recipe Type: Bakeshop Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, split
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Stir in the ricotta and half of the mozzarella. Add the sautéed spinach and mix until well combined.
Arrange the split croissants in a greased baking dish. Pour the spinach mixture over the croissants, ensuring they are well soaked. Top with remaining mozzarella.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is set.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes or herbs like dill or basil into the filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 15g