Spinach Pie Recipe

A savory, golden puff pastry filled with creamy cheeses, caramelized onions, and perfectly seasoned spinach—this easy spinach pie is perfect for brunch, dinner, or any special occasion. Learn how to make this comforting and versatile dish that’s sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons salted butter (1/2 stick)
• 2 large yellow onions
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (10 oz.) packages frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (Italian or plain)
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or ⅔ teaspoon dried thyme)
• ½ teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed overnight in the refrigerator

Instructions

Prepare the Puff Pastry

• Allow the puff pastry to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Avoid unrolling it while frozen, and don’t let it sit at room temperature for too long, as this can hinder its ability to rise properly.

Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cut the onions into ½-inch pieces (avoid dicing too finely as they shrink during cooking).
3. Cook the onions for 15 minutes on medium heat, then lower to medium-low and continue cooking until caramelized and golden brown, about 35 minutes total. This step enhances flavor but can be shortened if needed (use one onion and cook for 7 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, crack one egg and whisk with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the remaining 4 eggs vigorously until well-combined to create air pockets for a fluffier texture.
4. Add the spinach, breadcrumbs, Gruyere, Parmesan, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and the caramelized onion mixture. Stir until thoroughly combined.

Assemble the Pie

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Roll out one sheet of thawed puff pastry to cover the bottom and sides of the dish. Lay it in gently, ensuring the edges are covered.
3. Spread the spinach filling evenly over the pastry.
4. Roll out the second puff pastry sheet to cover the top. Place it over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
5. Use a fork to create decorative indentations along the edges of the dish.
6. Brush the top of the puff pastry with the egg wash, avoiding drips down the sides to ensure proper rising.
7. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake

1. Bake for 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
2. Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of caramelized onions, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs makes this pie a savory delight.
• Versatile: Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner and ideal for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat for a hassle-free meal.
• Impressive Yet Simple: The golden, flaky puff pastry adds a restaurant-quality touch with minimal effort.

Tips

• Caramelizing Onions: Don’t rush this step—low and slow cooking is key to deep flavor. If short on time, you can soften one onion instead of caramelizing two.
• Draining Spinach: Press out as much liquid as possible from the thawed spinach to avoid a soggy filling.
• Egg Wash: Use a light hand when brushing to prevent drips, which can affect how the puff pastry rises.
• Cutting Slits: Ensure slits on the top crust are evenly spaced to allow steam to escape and prevent sogginess.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Substitute Gruyere with Swiss or mozzarella and Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for different flavor profiles.
• Greens: Replace spinach with kale or chard for a twist.
• Herbs: Experiment with fresh parsley, dill, or oregano instead of thyme and sage.
• Additions: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or cooked bacon for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can. Sauté fresh spinach in a pan until wilted, then drain and chop before adding to the filling.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free puff pastry and breadcrumbs to adapt the recipe.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! Assemble the pie and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it fresh the next day.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve warm with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir.
• For brunch, complement with fresh fruit and a mimosa.

Enjoy this delectable Spinach Pie that’s sure to impress your family and friends!