There’s something truly special about gathering in the kitchen, especially when you’re greeted by the warm scent of baking bread. Recently, I found myself rifling through my pantry when I stumbled upon a treasure—some leftover feta cheese and a bag of frozen spinach. It hit me that I could create a delightful dish that would be perfect for sharing. Enter my Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread!
This recipe combines creamy feta, rich cream cheese, and gooey mozzarella, all nestled within the crunchy embrace of sourdough. It’s reminiscent of the beloved Greek spanakopita, but in a format everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re preparing for a party or just looking to elevate your comfort food game at home, this dish is simple to whip up yet impressively delicious. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your friends and family with this cheesy delight that’s sure to be the star of your next gathering!
Why will you love Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread?
Comforting flavor: The rich blend of feta, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates a mouthwatering experience that feels like a warm hug.
Easy to make: This recipe is simple enough for beginners, requiring minimal hands-on time yet delivering impressive results.
Versatile options: Whether you’re serving it as a large loaf for a party or mini baguettes for easy sharing, you can customize it to fit any occasion!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect as an appetizer or a cozy dinner option, it’s a dish that will leave your guests raving and coming back for more.
Don’t forget to explore some delicious variation ideas to keep things exciting!
Ingredients for Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread
• Dive into this cheesy delight with ease!
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and a rich base for the filling; use goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
- Mayonnaise – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Sour Cream – Contributes creaminess and a slight tang; Greek yogurt can be used for similar consistency.
- Lipton Onion Soup Mix – Offers flavor depth; replace it with a homemade mix using dried onion powder and seasoning.
- Fresh Cracked Black Pepper – Adds spice and enhances overall flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Creates a gooey, melty texture; swap for provolone for a different flavor.
- Feta Cheese – The star ingredient, delivering a sharp, tangy taste; substitute with ricotta for a milder note.
- Frozen Chopped Spinach – Adds nutrients and vibrant green color; fresh spinach can work if sautéed and finely chopped.
- Sliced Salami Rounds – Offers a savory kick; omit for a vegetarian version or substitute with chopped olives.
For the Bread
- French Bread or Baguettes – The vessel for the filling; any crusty bread can be used for delicious results.
Embrace the scrumptiousness of Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread and share it with those you love!
How to Make Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly golden-brown top.
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Thaw the frozen spinach and drain it thoroughly by pressing out the excess moisture, ensuring your filling doesn’t turn watery.
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Cut the top off the loaf of bread horizontally and scoop out the interior to create a hollow vessel, saving the removed bread for later use.
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Blend cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, onion soup mix, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth, forming the deliciously rich filling.
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Mix in mozzarella and feta cheese, followed by the chopped spinach and salami, stirring until well combined for that perfect balance of flavors.
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Fill the cavity of the bread with the prepared mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, adding an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
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Bake for 20-24 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling, filling your kitchen with irresistible scents.
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Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serve warm, enjoying each gooey, cheesy bite with friends and family.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread?
Creating a memorable meal goes beyond just one delicious dish; it’s about curating the perfect spread that sings in harmony.
- Crispy Green Salad: A simple mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the bread.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: The succulent, buttery shrimp bring a delightful seafood twist that pairs beautifully with the cheesy bread.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasted seasonal vegetables contribute comforting textures and earthy flavors that complement the stuffed bread’s creaminess.
- Creamy Mushroom Soup: Warm and velvety, this soup enhances the meal’s comforting feel while providing a lovely depth alongside the savory bread.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine brings out the cheese’s tanginess and elevates the whole dish, creating a delightful dining experience.
- Tzatziki Dip: This refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce cools the palate and adds a zing that perfectly contrasts the cheesy filling.
Transform every bite into an exquisite experience with these delightful accompaniments!
Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread Variations
Looking to add your personal touch to this cheesy delight? Here are some fun and flavorful variations!
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Goat Cheese: Swap out the cream cheese for goat cheese, lending a tangy twist to the filling.
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Greek Yogurt: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier option that enhances creaminess.
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Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for a fresher taste; simply sauté and chop it before mixing.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the filling for an aromatic lift that brightens the flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick, transforming your dish into a spicy sensation.
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Veggie Delight: Go vegetarian by omitting the salami; substitute with chopped marinated olives or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor dimensions.
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Nutty Twist: Throw in pine nuts or chopped walnuts to the mix for a delightful crunch that offers an unexpected texture.
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Layered Variations: Create a layered variant by adding roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts, enhancing the depth of your stuffed bread while bringing a Mediterranean flair.
Feel free to experiment! Each tweak could lead to a new favorite take on your Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread.
Expert Tips for Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread
- Thaw Spinach Properly: Thaw and drain your spinach thoroughly to prevent a soggy filling. Pressing out excess moisture is key for the best Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Consider using fresh spinach for an even better flavor profile, but ensure it’s well-dried to avoid wateriness.
- Mind the Salt: Be cautious with salt levels, as feta is quite salty; adjust the amount of onion soup mix accordingly to suit your taste.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bread while it bakes; every oven varies, and you want it golden brown, not overly browned.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to swap salami for other meats or omit it altogether for a vegetarian delight, adding flavor as you wish!
Make Ahead Options
This Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance, combining the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, onion soup mix, and spices in a bowl. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can hollow out the bread and wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the bread with the chilled mixture and top it with mozzarella before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy a warm, cheesy delight that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread
Room Temperature: Store any leftover Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread in a cool, dry place for up to 2 hours to maintain its freshness.
Fridge: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating will help restore the bread’s lovely texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through for the best results.
Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh spinach, look for vibrant green leaves without any wilting or dark spots. For frozen spinach, choose a brand that is organic and avoid any packages with ice crystals inside, indicating freezer burn.
What is the best way to store leftover Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread?
Store any leftover Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the bread moist while preserving the cheesy filling. For optimal texture, reheat it in the oven before serving again.
Can I freeze Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread?
Yes, you can! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. They will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
What should I do if my filling turned out too watery?
If your filling is watery, it may be due to excess moisture in the spinach. To prevent this in the future, thaw and drain your frozen spinach thoroughly, pressing it with a paper towel to squeeze out as much water as possible. If you’ve already mixed the filling, try adding a bit more cream cheese or other cheese to absorb some of that moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Very! To make the Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread vegetarian, simply omit the sliced salami rounds. You can even substitute with chopped olives or sundried tomatoes for added flavor. Enjoy!
Can my dog eat Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread?
It’s best to avoid sharing this dish with your dog. Ingredients like garlic and onions in the soup mix can be harmful to pets, and the richness of cheese may upset their stomachs. Always consult your vet for specific dietary concerns for your furry friends.
Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread for Ultimate Comfort Sharing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Thaw the frozen spinach and drain it thoroughly by pressing out the excess moisture.
- Cut the top off the loaf of bread horizontally and scoop out the interior, saving the removed bread for later use.
- Blend cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, onion soup mix, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Mix in mozzarella and feta cheese, followed by the chopped spinach and salami, stirring until well combined.
- Fill the cavity of the bread with the prepared mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-24 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.