Whether you’ve stocked your freezer with excess spinach from your garden or scored a great deal at your local supermarket, you’re in need of creative ways to use frozen spinach. Before we dive into the recipes, let’s cover the basics.
Preparing Frozen Spinach: Thawing and Drying
All the recipes below require thawed spinach, unless otherwise stated.
You can thaw frozen spinach by microwaving it, leaving it at room temperature, refrigerating it overnight, heating it on low heat, or running warm water over it in a strainer.
Regardless of the method you choose, you’ll encounter excess moisture. Unlike fresh spinach, frozen spinach has a higher water content that can impact recipe outcomes. To remedy this, squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing with other ingredients.
One effective way is to place the thawed spinach in a strainer and push out the water. You can also use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to recipe ideas. Are you a meat lover? Try the cream cheese spinach stuffed chicken. If you’re vegan, sautéed spinach with garlic is a great option, and many of these recipes can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences.
If you’re looking for an impressive appetizer to bring to a party, check out recipe #25. It’s sure to impress your guests.
Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals and explored some delicious recipe ideas, it’s time to get cooking! So, go ahead and thaw those greens, and get ready to enjoy the flavors of frozen spinach.
Creamed Spinach
To create this mouthwatering recipe, gather just 15 minutes of your time and a few simple pantry staples: garlic, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, ground nutmeg, and frozen spinach. Begin by defrosting the spinach in the microwave to thaw it out. Next, combine all the ingredients in a pot over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir constantly until everything is heated through and the flavors are fully incorporated. Then, sit back and savor the delicious outcome!
Creamy Spinach Enchiladas
Unleash the flavors of Mexico by starting with a 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach. As you prepare this delectable dish, don’t forget to incorporate green chilies for an added kick and heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese to bring richness to the table.
Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200°C) and place your enchiladas in a shallow baking dish. Bake them for 25 to 35 minutes, then remove the cover for the final 10 to 15 minutes to allow the tops to golden brown.
Spinach Dip
The era of relying on ranch seasoning mix for dip has come to an end, replaced by a triumvirate of yogurt, mayonnaise, and spinach. This unconventional combination yields a rich, creamy base that’s ready to be elevated with the addition of your preferred flavors. Think garlic, shallots, cayenne pepper – the possibilities are endless! Once you’ve seasoned the dip to your liking, it’s simply a matter of pairing it with your favorite chips (perhaps those crispy Air Fryer Tortilla Chips?
) and getting ready to indulge.
Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with this indulgent spinach recipe. To prepare, you’ll need to use substantial pieces of salmon, ensuring that each piece has at least ½ inch of space on all sides after cutting.
To create the stuffing, combine 10 ounces of thawed frozen spinach with a dash of hot sauce and your preferred seasoning. Once prepared, bake your stuffed salmon for approximately 12 minutes at 400°F, allowing the flavors to meld together and the dish to reach its full potential.
Lamb And Spinach Curry
If you’re seeking a comforting winter dish that incorporates the richness of frozen spinach, this curry recipe is an excellent choice for a cozy day indoors. A blend of aromatic spices including ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and bay leaves creates a warm and inviting flavor profile. As your curry reaches its final stages of simmering, add in the frozen spinach about 30 minutes beforehand.
The key to this step is finding the perfect balance of flavors, which ultimately comes down to personal taste preferences – so feel free to experiment with different amounts to suit your palate.
Gnocchi Verde | Spinach Gnocchi
To create this delectable gnocchi recipe, it’s essential to start by preparing the finest chopped spinach you can find. Thawed and frozen spinach should be your go-to choice. The key to a successful dish is to finely chop the spinach, as this will help to distribute its flavor evenly throughout the final product.
Next, combine the chopped spinach with eggs, flour, and other desired spices to create a smooth batter.
Once you’ve achieved the perfect consistency, refrigerate the mixture until it firms up. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
After the batter has firmed in the fridge, it’s time to shape the gnocchi into bite-sized balls. Gently place these delicate morsels into a pot of boiling water and cook until they float to the surface.
For an added touch of indulgence, transfer the cooked gnocchi to a dish, topping them with a generous helping of parmesan cheese before placing under the broiler.
Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Building on the spinach stuffing momentum, we now introduce a mouthwatering chicken breast recipe that combines the flavors and textures of creamy spinach with savory cheese. To start, retrieve a 10-ounce package of thawed frozen spinach and blend it with a rich fusion of cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and aromatic spices. Next, prepare your chicken breasts by making an incision three-quarters of the way through each breast.
As you stuff the mixture into the cavity, use toothpicks to secure the filling in place, ensuring a delightful presentation and a burst of flavor with every bite.
Spinach Lasagna
Why limit yourself to traditional tomato-based lasagna when you can create a delicious spinach version? This ricotta cheese-based dish is a game-changer, offering a unique flavor profile that’s just as satisfying. What’s more, it can be prepared in under an hour – a perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep. The key to success lies in using frozen spinach, not fresh, which ensures the right texture and flavor.
To take it to the next level, add hints of nutmeg and grated black pepper to give your dish an extra boost of flavor.
Greek Spinach Feta Burger
For veggie lovers, this Greek-inspired burger is a game-changer. Not only does it incorporate frozen spinach, but it also comes with a tangy homemade cucumber yogurt sauce to elevate the flavor experience. The secret to holding the spinach and herb stuffing mixture together lies in the duo of eggs and olive oil, which provide a rich foundation for the dish. Feta cheese adds a salty punch, while tomato and onion toppings allow you to customize the burger to your taste.
Stuffed Spinach Bread
Indulge in the delightful combination of warm, gooey cheese and savory spinach, as this bread quickly becomes a beloved staple in your household. The tender crumb and flavorful filling will leave you craving another slice, and then another, and so on. What’s more, this recipe offers incredible flexibility – simply omit or add Italian sausage to suit your taste, and take advantage of convenient frozen bread dough that requires no waiting for the dough to rise, making it a breeze to prepare.
Spinach Garlic Pizza
Get ready to win over even the pickiest eaters with this mouthwatering homemade chopped spinach recipe. And the best part? It’s a key ingredient in a show-stopping deep-dish pizza that’s packed with flavor. Imagine a crust topped with melted Parmesan and cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and dried herbs – it’s a combination that’s hard to resist. To take it to the next level, add five ounces of frozen spinach to the mix, along with some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
It’s a game-changer that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Spinach Smoothie With Fruit
Indulge in a creamy and protein-packed no-bake spinach smoothie that combines the best of both worlds – sweet and savory. To start, mix together 1/2 cup of cottage cheese, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon of whey powder to create a power-packed base. This trio provides a boost of protein to keep you satisfied and energized. Next, add in some natural sweetness with 1/4 cup of peaches, 1/4 cup of strawberries, and a drizzle of honey.
These fruits not only add flavor but also provide a burst of essential vitamins and minerals. To give the smoothie its signature green color and a nutritious kick, add a ⅓ package of frozen spinach. Blend all the ingredients together until smooth and enjoy your creation with a straw. This no-bake spinach recipe is perfect for a quick and easy snack or post-workout treat.
Spinach & Pepper Jack Cheese Bread Pudding
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors! With just 30 minutes and a 10-ounce package of thawed spinach, you can whip up this nutritious dish that’s as satisfying as it is tasty. To achieve the perfect texture, opt for firm white bread as your foundation. When it comes to milk, whole is definitely the way to go, offering a richer and creamier consistency. Simply combine the ingredients and pop them into the oven at 370F for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together in harmony.
Classic Spinach & Artichoke Dip
When it comes to creating a mouthwatering artichoke dip, spinach plays a crucial role in amplifying the color and depth of flavors. Meanwhile, be prepared to tackle some calories – this recipe packs a punch with cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and an array of cheeses. To get started, take 6-10 ounces of frozen spinach and coarsely chop it to release its nutrients. Next, season with garlic, black pepper, and other spices to taste.
Spinach Mashed Potatoes
When it comes to pleasing the pickiest eaters in your family, sometimes the key is to disguise healthy ingredients within a familiar dish. In this case, we’re talking about mashed potatoes that just so happen to pack a nutritious punch thanks to the addition of frozen spinach. Here’s how you can make these delicious and kid-friendly mashed potatoes: Start by boiling diced potatoes until they’re tender, then drain them in a colander.
Next, combine the cooked potatoes with one cup of milk, a pat of butter (amounting to your personal taste), and a single package of thawed frozen spinach. Blend all the ingredients together using an electric blender or food processor until smooth, and serve immediately for maximum freshness.
Sauteed Spinach With Garlic
To turn spinach into a tasty meal, you don’t need many ingredients. In fact, all you require are a few basic components: canned corn, garlic, butter, sea salt, and black pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some sautéed peppers or onions to elevate the dish. One important tip is to cook frozen spinach straight from its frozen state – this helps preserve the nutrients and flavor.
Spinach & Tuna Noodle Casserole
While it may seem like a lot is going on in this spinach casserole recipe, the end result is well worth the trip to the store. The foundation of this dish starts with chunky canned tuna, four cups of frozen spinach, and breadcrumbs – an unlikely combination that yields surprisingly delicious results.
Spinach Basil Pesto
When it comes to innovative uses of frozen spinach, one approach that stands out is incorporating it into a pesto recipe. While the other ingredients may not surprise you if you’re familiar with making pesto, the addition of frozen spinach adds a unique twist. For this recipe, use high-quality pine nuts and heat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to bring out their flavor.
Once toasted, combine all the ingredients – including the frozen spinach – in a food processor and blend until well combined.
Spinach & Ham Omelet
Elevate your classic ham omelet by incorporating thawed spinach for a flavorful twist. Start by pouring the egg mixture into a heated pan and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across the surface.
Next, add the spinach to either side of the omelet before placing the ham on one half. This strategic placement ensures that each bite delivers an extra boost of nutritious spinach.
Spinach Mac & Cheese
When considering creative ways to use frozen spinach that kids will enjoy, one surprisingly effective option is incorporating it into a classic macaroni and cheese dish. This twist not only satisfies the palate of young eaters but also adds a delightful surprise through the combination of garlic, sriracha sauce, and sour cream, providing a tangy contrast to the rich pasta. To take this comfort food to the next level, consider using an Instant Pot to cook it to perfection in mere minutes.
Baked Potatoes Stuffed With Spinach
Add a pop of color to your baked potatoes by incorporating one package of thawed frozen spinach into every six large potatoes. This simple twist can elevate the flavor and visual appeal of this classic dish. In addition to the spinach, you’ll also need mushrooms, parmesan cheese, and butter to create a rich and savory mixture. To assemble the recipe, mash the potato pulp and mix it with the prepared ingredients.
Spoon the resulting mixture back into the potato shells and bake at 350 °F for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Rice, Cheddar & Spinach Pie
Indulge your guests with a delectable savory spinach pie that’s sure to leave them craving more. The key to this mouthwatering dish is the harmonious blend of one package of thawed spinach, nutty brown rice, tangy cheddar cheese, and a hint of spices. Simply combine these ingredients in a bowl, taking care to mix well until they’re fully incorporated. Next, level the mixture into a pie pan and pop it into the oven at 425 °F for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
To ensure the perfect slice, let your spinach pie sit for a mere five minutes before serving.
Spinach Ravioli
For those who may be intimidated by the process of making handmade ravioli, fear not! This particular recipe is an exception that proves the rule. Instead of dedicating time to crafting individual pieces of pasta from scratch, you’ll utilize pre-made ravioli and add a burst of flavor with spinach at the very end. The result is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. And the best part?
You won’t need to worry about perfecting the art of ravioli-making, as you’ll be focusing on crafting a rich and creamy sauce using ingredients like cream cheese, tomato paste, and heavy cream.
Au Gratin Potatoes With Spinach
Indulge your creative side with a visually stunning dish that layers potato and frozen spinach. The addition of Gruyère and Parmesan cheese brings an unparalleled richness to this culinary masterpiece. Once you’ve constructed your edible art, place it in the oven for 25-35 minutes covered, followed by a 10-minute uncovered baking period to achieve the perfect golden crust.
Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
When it comes to finger foods that incorporate frozen spinach, stuffed mushrooms are a fantastic option. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with a blend of three cheeses, thawed spinach, garlic, and crunchy panko bread crumbs. To prepare, simply fill your mushroom caps with the mixture and bake until golden brown. Be warned: these bite-sized treats are so delicious that you may need to double or even triple the recipe to satisfy everyone’s cravings!
The bottom line
Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle or simply enjoy the nutritional benefits of leafy greens, frozen spinach offers an impressive range of versatility for all palates. From plant-based enthusiasts to those who savor the taste of meat, the possibilities for incorporating this convenient and nutritious ingredient into your daily meals are virtually endless.
