Spinach Squares are a refreshing savory snack with creamy spinach and savory Monterey Jack cheese baked into bite-sized squares. Perfect for parties, family functions, or as a freeze-friendly, make-ahead snack, this recipe is versatile and people-loving! Quick to prepare with just under an hour total (30–35 minutes bake), these can be just the appetizer you need in flavor—with nutrition.
Here’s a full recipe guide for this healthy morsel, along with benefits, preparation steps, presentation ideas, and more.
Recipe Overview
This spinach cheese squares recipe yields approximately 36 small squares—ideal for serving 8–12 people as an appetizer (about 3–4 squares per person). The combination of spinach, cheese, eggs, and a simple batter creates a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Perfect if you’re looking for spinach cheese appetizer squares or a light dish with crowd appeal. It also adapts well if you want to halve the recipe for two.
Spinach Squares
Equipment
- 1 13×9 inch Baking Dish Glass or metal
- 1 Mixing Bowl Medium size
- 1 Whisk For combining wet ingredients
- 1 Spatula For folding cheese and spinach
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup stick Butter Melted
- 1 cup All-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free blend
- 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 3 large Eggs
- 1 cup Milk Preferably whole or 2%
- 20 oz Frozen chopped spinach Thawed and squeezed dry, two 10 oz packages
- 4 cups Shredded Monterey Jack cheese 16 oz, freshly shredded if possible
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt 1/2 cup butter and pour into a 13×9-inch baking dish, tilting to coat evenly.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp baking powder.
- In a large bowl, whisk 3 large eggs and 1 cup milk until smooth. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just blended.
- Fold in 20 oz thawed and squeezed-dry spinach and 4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake, uncovered, for 30–35 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool for 5 minutes, then cut into 36 small squares. Serve immediately or freeze for later.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. Freeze cooled squares in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Variations: Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Serving Ideas: Serve on a party platter with marinara or ranch dip, as a brunch side with scrambled eggs, or as a lunchbox snack.
- Tips: Use freshly shredded cheese to avoid anti-caking agents. Squeeze spinach thoroughly to prevent a watery texture.
- Beverage Pairings: Pair with Sauvignon Blanc, light lager, or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing complement.
Health Benefits Breakdown
- Butter: High in saturated fat, but grass-fed butter contains vitamin A (eye health) and vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant. Opt for grass-fed for higher omega-3 content.
- Flour: Source of carbohydrates. Whole wheat flour can be used for more fiber, though all-purpose works just fine.
- Eggs: Packed with essential amino acids and choline—great for brain and cellular health.
- Milk: High in calcium and vitamin D, helping support strong bones and reduce osteoporosis risk.
- Spinach: A star ingredient in fresh spinach appetizers, rich in lutein, zeaxanthin (for eye health), vitamin K (blood clotting), and iron. High fiber helps digestion.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: High in calcium and protein, but also saturated fat. Enjoy in moderation for a rich flavor and smooth melt.
Looking for alternatives? These benefits carry over whether you make fresh spinach squares or even spinach squares with feta.
Serving Ideas and Variations
Whether serving for a gathering or prepping snacks for the week, these Spinach Squares fit every setting:
Serving Ideas:
- Party Platter: Place squares on a board or tray with tomato twine for easy grabbing. Serve with dips like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
- Brunch Station: Pair with scrambled eggs and fruit for a morning spread.
- Lunchbox Snack: Cooled squares pack easily into lunchboxes for a high-protein, nutritious bite.
Variations:
- Cheese Change-Up: Try cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Want a Greek-inspired take? Use feta for spinach squares with feta flavor.
- Vegetarian Vibe: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for added texture and nutrients.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend so that spinach and cheese appetizers can be enjoyed by all.
- Herbs: Mix in parsley, dill, or chives to elevate the flavor.
Tips on Ingredient Selection and Storage
- Spinach: Frozen spinach works well—just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water. Fresh spinach is great too, if blanched and finely chopped.
- Cheese: Shred your own Monterey Jack for best melt quality. Pre-shredded cheese often includes anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Eggs & Milk: Go with large eggs and full-fat milk for richness (or 2% if needed).
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled squares in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Beverage Pairings
Pair your Spinach Squares with these delicious drinks:
- Wine: Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pair well. Light Pinot Noir works for red lovers.
- Beer: Wheat beer or a light lager complements without overpowering.
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon, cucumber-mint infused water, or cozy herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint.
Best Time to Consume
These spinach and cheese appetizers are versatile any time of day:
- Breakfast/Brunch: Serve with fruit and eggs for a protein-rich start.
- Lunch: Pack into a snack box or serve during midday gatherings.
- Evening: A great make-ahead bite for cocktail hour, game nights, or cozy evenings on the patio. Nearly guilt-free and always enjoyed.
Conclusion
Spinach Squares are the trifecta of ease, taste, and nutrition. Their simplicity and versatility make them a go-to for everything from brunch spreads to cocktail parties. Whether you’re catering a large event or making spinach cheese squares for two, this recipe delivers flavor and convenience.
With nutrient-rich spinach, protein-packed eggs, and calcium-filled cheese, this dish is filling and freezer-friendly. Whether you prefer fresh spinach squares or spinach cheese appetizer squares, bring these to your next event and watch them disappear — square by happy square!
