Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie: A Flavorful Delight!

Introduction to Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie

Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic, especially when juggling family, work, and everything in between. That’s why I’m excited to share my Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie with you! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With layers of pasta, fresh spinach, and creamy feta, it’s a delightful way to sneak in some greens while satisfying those taste buds. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this pie is sure to impress your loved ones without keeping you in the kitchen for hours!

Why You’ll Love This Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie

This Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie is a lifesaver for busy days! It’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor that will have your family asking for seconds. The combination of creamy cheeses and fresh spinach makes it a deliciously satisfying meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie

Let’s dive into the delicious ingredients that make up this Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie! Each component plays a vital role in creating that comforting, hearty flavor we all crave. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive Oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, it adds richness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
• Onion: Chopped onion brings a sweet, aromatic base to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with the spinach and cheeses.
• Fresh Spinach: This leafy green is the star of the show! It wilts down to create a nutritious and vibrant filling.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a tangy, creamy texture that complements the spinach perfectly.
• Ricotta Cheese: This soft cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together.
• Eggs: Large eggs act as a binding agent, ensuring your pie holds its shape when sliced.
• Dried Oregano: A sprinkle of this herb brings a warm, earthy flavor that’s quintessential in Mediterranean dishes.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the pie.
• Penne Pasta: This pasta serves as the hearty base, providing a satisfying texture that pairs well with the filling.
• Marinara Sauce: A rich tomato sauce that adds moisture and a burst of flavor to the pasta.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This melty cheese on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that’s simply irresistible.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish to the pie.

Feel free to get creative! If you want to add a bit of protein, cooked ground beef or turkey can be mixed into the spinach filling. For those with gluten sensitivities, simply swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free variety. You can find all the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out and take to the kitchen!

How to Make Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Making this Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar in no time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This will help your pie come out easily and prevent any sticking. Trust me, you don’t want to lose any of that cheesy goodness!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté it until it’s translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. Now, it’s time to add the chopped spinach! Stir it in and cook until it’s wilted, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

Once your spinach mixture has cooled slightly, transfer it to a large bowl. Add in the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, eggs, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This cheesy filling is the heart of your Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie, so make sure it’s mixed just right!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While you’re mixing the filling, it’s a great time to cook the penne pasta. Follow the package instructions and cook it until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. This is where the magic happens—stir in the marinara sauce until the pasta is evenly coated. It’s going to be a delicious base for your pie!

Step 5: Layer the Ingredients

Now, let’s build our pie! Start by layering half of the pasta mixture in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Next, spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the pasta. Finally, top it off with the remaining pasta. This layering creates a beautiful, hearty pie that’s bursting with flavor!

Step 6: Bake the Pie

It’s time to bake! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of your layered pie. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The anticipation will be worth it, and your kitchen will smell divine!

Tips for Success

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
• Don’t skip the cooling step for the spinach mixture; it helps the filling set better.
• Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
• Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing; it helps maintain those beautiful layers.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for a quick lunch the next day!

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Essential for layering your pie. A similar-sized casserole dish works too!
• Large Skillet: Perfect for sautéing veggies. A non-stick pan can make cleanup easier.
• Mixing Bowls: Use any size you have on hand for combining ingredients.
• Pot for Pasta: A large pot is ideal for cooking the penne. A deep saucepan can work as well.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Handy for precise ingredient measurements, but eyeballing can work in a pinch!

Variations

• Meat Lover’s Twist: For those who crave a heartier dish, add cooked ground beef or turkey to the spinach mixture. It adds a savory depth that meat lovers will adore!
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the penne pasta for gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of delicious options available that will work just as well!
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor. Just chop them finely and mix them into the cheese filling.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture. It’ll give your pie a delightful zing!
• Veggie Boost: Sneak in other vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions!

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh Salad: Pair your Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up any extra marinara sauce—yum!
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
• Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie

1. Can I make Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

2. How do I store leftovers of Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual slices in the microwave or pop them back in the oven until warmed through. It makes for a quick and satisfying lunch!

3. Can I freeze Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie?
Yes, you can freeze this pie! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

4. What can I substitute for the ricotta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or even cream cheese as a substitute. Just blend it a bit to get a smoother texture before mixing it with the spinach. Both options will still give you that creamy goodness!

5. Is Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly! With its layers of pasta, spinach, and delicious cheeses, it’s a hearty meal that even meat lovers will enjoy. If you want to add some protein, consider mixing in some beans or lentils for a vegetarian twist!

Final Thoughts

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, especially on those busy days when time is tight. But my Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie transforms the kitchen into a joyful space filled with warmth and delicious aromas. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to gather loved ones around the table and share a hearty dish that everyone will adore. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this pie brings smiles and satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this delightful dish become a cherished favorite in your home!

Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie: A Flavorful Delight!

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Print Recipe

A delicious and hearty Spinach and Feta Pastitsio Pie that combines layers of pasta, spinach, and cheese for a flavorful meal.

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 package (16 ounces) penne pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, eggs, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. In a separate pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
6. Stir in the marinara sauce with the cooked pasta until evenly coated.
7. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture on the bottom. Spread the spinach and cheese mixture over the pasta, then top with the remaining pasta.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

• For a meatier version, add cooked ground beef or turkey to the spinach mixture.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta.

• Author: Chef Adam
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 120mg