Spinach and Cottage Cheese Spaghetti Bake

Creamy Cottage Cheese Noodle Bake

Description

This dish is a delightful twist on the classic Greek Spanakopita, using spaghetti in place of traditional filo dough. It’s a comforting and convenient one-dish meal that’s as delicious the next day as it is freshly baked. Ideal for potlucks and gatherings, this recipe combines creamy cottage cheese with savory spinach and aromatic spices, layered with tender spaghetti to create a hearty, flavorful casserole that will please any crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 package (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup seedless raisins
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for topping)
• Dollops of yogurt (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with a small amount of butter or cooking spray.

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2. Prepare the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, drain thoroughly, and set aside.

3. Cook the Spinach: In a large skillet, cook the thawed spinach over medium heat until tender. Drain the spinach well, pressing out excess moisture. Transfer the spinach to a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the spinach. Stir to combine and set aside.

4. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become transparent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the dried basil, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to let the spices bloom.

5. Combine Rice and Raisins: Add the cooked rice, water, and seedless raisins to the skillet with the onions. Heat through, stirring occasionally, then remove from heat and set aside.

6. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Add the cottage cheese and mix well until combined. Set aside.

7. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Mix well to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

8. Assemble the Bake: In the prepared baking dish, layer the ingredients as follows:

   • Spread half of the sautéed onions and rice mixture evenly over the bottom of the dish.
   • Add 1/3 of the cooked spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
   • Layer all of the spinach mixture over the spaghetti.
   • Add another 1/3 of the spaghetti on top of the spinach.
   • Spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the second layer of spaghetti.
   • Top with the remaining onions and rice mixture.
   • Finish with the remaining spaghetti, spreading it evenly over the top.

9. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. If desired, dab a few small pieces of butter on top for extra richness.

10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, cover the dish with aluminum foil and continue baking for an additional 35 minutes, or until the bake is set and golden brown on top.

11. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting. This resting time helps the bake set and makes it easier to serve.

12. Optional Garnish: For added flavor, you can top individual servings with a dollop of yogurt if desired.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 527
• Fat: 15.5g
• Saturated Fat: 5.9g
• Cholesterol: 74.2mg
• Sodium: 970.5mg
• Carbohydrates: 68.5g
• Fiber: 2.8g
• Sugar: 5.8g
• Protein: 28.7g

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful casserole at your next gathering or as a hearty family dinner. It’s sure to be a hit with its blend of creamy cottage cheese, savory spinach, and perfectly seasoned spaghetti! 🍴🥄🍲