Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread Recipe

Introduction

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread is a savory, indulgent treat that combines the earthy flavors of spinach with the creamy richness of cheese, all wrapped up in soft, pillowy bread. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful baked goods that can serve as a main dish, side dish, or appetizer. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party, or a special occasion, Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The combination of fresh spinach, melty cheese, and seasoned bread dough creates a delicious filling that bakes to perfection. The bread forms a golden, crispy crust on the outside, while the inside remains soft and cheesy. This dish is easy to prepare, and the flavors meld together to create a comforting, satisfying meal. It can be served as a stand-alone snack or paired with soups, salads, or pasta dishes for a more substantial meal.

With minimal ingredients and a simple baking process, this stuffed bread recipe will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Plus, it can be customized with different types of cheese and seasonings to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread

• Flavorful & Savory Filling: The combination of sautéed spinach and melty cheese creates a rich, savory filling that is both comforting and satisfying. The spinach adds a burst of color and nutritional value, while the cheese provides a creamy, indulgent contrast.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread is incredibly easy to make. The recipe involves simple steps and basic ingredients, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
• Versatile: This stuffed bread can be made with various types of cheese, from mozzarella to cheddar to feta, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking. You can also add other ingredients like garlic, herbs, or bacon to enhance the filling.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a delicious snack, Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread is the perfect choice. It works wonderfully as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a main course for a light meal.
• Deliciously Satisfying: With its golden, crispy crust and creamy filling, Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per slice, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 12-16g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 8-10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread:

• 1 loaf of bread dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing spinach)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a cheese of your choice)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach Filling

Start by preparing the spinach. Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly before chopping it into smaller pieces. If you’re using pre-washed spinach, this step will be quick. Sauté the spinach in a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the spinach from the pan and set it aside to cool.

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them in the leftover olive oil for about 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Once the onions and garlic are cooked, remove them from the pan and let them cool slightly.

Once the spinach has cooled, squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. This step is crucial to ensure the bread stays light and crisp after baking.

2. Mix the Filling Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cooked onions and garlic, shredded mozzarella, and grated parmesan cheese. Add the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. The cheeses will help hold the spinach mixture together while adding rich flavor to the filling.

At this point, you can also customize the filling. For example, you can add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist, or incorporate cooked bacon or sausage for extra savory flavor. If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

3. Prepare the Bread Dough

If you’re using store-bought bread dough, follow the package instructions for thawing and preparing it. If you’re making your own dough, ensure it has been kneaded and allowed to rise properly according to your recipe.

Once the dough is ready, lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out into a rectangular shape. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch (0.6 cm), ensuring it’s large enough to accommodate the filling and allow for some folding at the edges.

4. Stuff the Bread

Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the bread. Be generous with the filling, but avoid overstuffing, as this can cause the dough to tear or spill out during baking.

Once the filling is spread, carefully roll the dough up into a log shape, starting from one of the longer edges. Try to roll it tightly but not too tightly, as the dough will expand during baking. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the bread, making sure the filling stays inside.

5. Bake the Stuffed Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Transfer the stuffed bread onto the prepared baking sheet, placing the seam side down.

For a golden, shiny finish, you can brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg wash. This will give the bread a beautiful, glossy finish as it bakes. If you like, you can also brush the bread with melted butter after baking for extra flavor and a shiny crust.

Bake the stuffed bread for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through. The crust should be crispy, and the cheese inside should be melted and bubbly. If you’re unsure whether the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean, and the bread should feel firm to the touch.

6. Cool and Slice

Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time will make it easier to slice without losing too much filling. Slice the stuffed bread into individual portions, either into thick slices or smaller, bite-sized pieces.

Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, garlic butter, or ranch dressing, for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread

• Squeeze Out Extra Moisture: Be sure to squeeze the excess moisture out of the spinach before mixing it into the filling. This step will prevent the bread from becoming soggy and help the filling hold together better.
• Customize the Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for stuffed bread, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Cheddar, gouda, fontina, or a mixture of cheeses all work wonderfully. If you like a tangy flavor, consider adding crumbled feta or goat cheese.
• Use Fresh or Frozen Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, but you can use frozen spinach as well. Just be sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach thoroughly before using it in the filling.
• Add Extra Flavor with Garlic and Herbs: Garlic and herbs elevate the flavor of the spinach and cheese filling. Don’t skip the garlic, and feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for extra depth.
• Brush with Egg Wash: For a shiny, golden crust, brush the dough with a beaten egg wash before baking. If you prefer a softer crust, you can skip this step, but it adds a beautiful finish to the bread.
• Serve with Dipping Sauces: Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with a dipping sauce. Try marinara, garlic butter, or ranch for a flavor boost.

Variations of Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread

• Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Bread: Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach and cheese filling for an earthy, umami-rich twist.
• Bacon and Spinach Stuffed Bread: Crisp up some bacon and crumble it into the filling for a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the spinach and cheese.
• Italian Herb Stuffed Bread: Enhance the flavor of the filling with Italian seasonings like basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes for a more Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Vegan Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread: Use a plant-based cheese substitute and non-dairy butter to create a vegan version of this stuffed bread. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Storage and Shelf Life

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to store it for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat, simply place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed bread before baking. Assemble the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and drinks:

• Soup: Serve with a light tomato soup, creamy vegetable soup, or a hearty minestrone for a comforting, complete meal.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed bread. Try a mixed greens salad or a Caesar salad.
• Wine: Pair with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to balance the richness of the bread. A light red, like Pinot Noir, also works well.
• Dipping Sauces: Try serving the bread with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or ranch dressing for dipping.

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Conclusion

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Bread is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines savory spinach, melty cheese, and soft, golden bread. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or side dish, this stuffed bread is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and customizable filling, it’s a recipe that can be tailored to suit any occasion. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this delightful bread, and watch it become a favorite in your baking repertoire!