Spanakopita Casserole: A Comforting Twist on a Greek Classic

A Warm, Cheesy Dish Inspired by Greek Tradition

Imagine the rich, savory flavors of classic spanakopita—flaky phyllo pastry filled with spinach, feta, and herbs—transformed into a comforting, cheesy baked casserole. This Spanakopita Casserole takes everything you love about the traditional Greek dish and makes it even easier to prepare.

Instead of delicate phyllo dough, this version uses tender penne pasta, combining it with creamy ricotta, tangy feta, and perfectly seasoned spinach. The result? A warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep for the week.

Whether you’ve enjoyed Greek spanakopita before or you’re trying it for the first time, this Spanakopita Casserole is a dish that will quickly become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe, tips, and everything you need to make it perfect!

Why You’ll Love This Spanakopita Casserole

• Quick & Easy: No need to fuss with layering phyllo dough.
• Creamy & Cheesy: Ricotta, feta, and mozzarella create an irresistible texture.
• Packed with Greens: A nutritious way to enjoy spinach.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this comforting dish.

Ingredients for Spanakopita Casserole

Here’s what you need to make this cheesy Greek-inspired casserole:

Ingredient	Amount
Penne pasta	1 (16-ounce) box
Frozen chopped spinach	1 (10-ounce) box, thawed
Feta cheese, crumbled	1 ½ cups
Fresh dill, chopped	¼ cup (or 3 teaspoons dried dill)
Ricotta cheese	1 (15-ounce) tub
Salt	Pinch
Black pepper	Pinch
Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 (8-ounce) package

These ingredients work together to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful casserole with all the elements of traditional spanakopita but in an easier-to-make format.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Spinach Mixture

• If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture.
• If using fresh spinach, chop it finely and sauté in a dry pan over medium heat until wilted.
• In a large bowl, combine spinach, crumbled feta, ricotta, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta.
• Spread half of the spinach mixture over the pasta.
• Repeat with the remaining pasta and spinach mixture.
• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

4. Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of feta for a fresh touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Spanakopita Casserole

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill adds brightness and depth of flavor.
• Drain the Spinach Well: Excess moisture can make the casserole watery.
• Add Garlic for Extra Flavor: Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic with the spinach for a richer taste.
• Use a Different Pasta: Swap penne for rigatoni, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta.
• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

What to Serve with Spanakopita Casserole

This dish is satisfying on its own but pairs well with:

• Greek Salad – Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and kalamata olives.
• Warm Pita Bread – Perfect for scooping up cheesy bites.
• Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
• Tzatziki Sauce – A cool and creamy dip for contrast.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Let the casserole cool completely before covering.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water.

Freezing Instructions:

• Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze before baking.
• When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 50–55 minutes.

Variations & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Try these delicious twists:

1. Meat Lovers Spanakopita Casserole

• Add cooked ground turkey, chicken, or lamb to the spinach mixture.

2. Low-Carb Option

• Replace the pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

3. Vegan Spanakopita Casserole

• Use tofu ricotta instead of dairy ricotta.
• Swap vegan mozzarella and nutritional yeast for cheesiness.

4. Mediterranean-Inspired Version

• Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and olives for extra Mediterranean flavors.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	48g
Fat	16g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	580mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I Make Spanakopita Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?

Absolutely! Use 1 pound of fresh spinach, chop it, and sauté before mixing it in.

3. What’s the Best Type of Pasta for This Casserole?

Penne works great, but rigatoni, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni can be used.

4. Can I Freeze Leftover Casserole?

Yes! Wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.

5. How Do I Prevent the Casserole from Being Watery?

Make sure to drain spinach well and avoid overcooking the pasta.

6. Can I Add More Cheese?

Of course! A sprinkle of Parmesan or goat cheese on top adds extra flavor.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Spanakopita Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make twist on a Greek classic, offering all the flavors of traditional spanakopita in a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a meal prep favorite, this recipe is sure to impress.

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