Delicious Layered Cheese Loaf (No Bake)
This enticing no-bake layered cheese loaf is the perfect choice for a delightful luncheon or brunch. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an irresistible treat, and its ease of preparation means you can have it ready in no time. The only catch? You’ll need to plan ahead, as this loaf requires a bit of chilling time to achieve its optimal flavor and texture. When served with slices of French bread, it transforms into a delectable dish that’s bound to impress. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal gathering, this cheese loaf is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons margarine, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, and margarine. Beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set it aside for now.
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Create the Spinach Mixture:
- Using a food processor, blend together the thawed and drained spinach, fresh parsley, chopped walnuts, canola oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. Process until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to this mixture and blend thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the cheese.
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Line the Pan:
- Line a 7-1/2” x 3-1/2” loaf pan with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap covers the sides of the pan completely. This will help you easily unmold the cheese loaf later.
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Layer the Mixtures:
- Spread one-third of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. This will form the first layer.
- Next, spread half of the spinach mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Repeat the layering process: add another layer of one-third of the cream cheese mixture, followed by the remaining spinach mixture.
- Finally, spread the remaining one-third of the cream cheese mixture on top, smoothing it out to cover the spinach layer.
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Chill the Loaf:
- Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 3-4 hours. For best results, allow it to chill overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the loaf to set properly.
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Serve:
- Carefully unmold the cheese loaf from the pan by lifting it out using the plastic wrap. Gently remove the plastic wrap from the loaf.
- Slice the loaf into pieces and serve with slices of French bread.
Notes:
- The texture and flavor of this cheese loaf improve with time, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add extra herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 4418.5
- Fat: 401.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 175.4 g
- Cholesterol: 759.4 mg
- Sodium: 4495.1 mg
- Carbohydrates: 102.5 g
- Fiber: 28.8 g
- Sugar: 11.4 g
- Protein: 136.7 g
Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of this layered cheese loaf that’s perfect for any occasion! 🧀🍞
