This Baked Spinach & Parmesan Potato Pie is a comforting, savory baked dish that brings together creamy mashed potatoes, fresh spinach, caramelized onions, garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. Topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and melty mozzarella, it’s a satisfying one-dish meal perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting & Flavorful: A hearty mix of potatoes, spinach, and Parmesan creates a deeply savory flavor profile.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mozzarella and Parmesan combine for the perfect gooey, golden finish.
- Versatile: Serve warm for breakfast, as a side dish, or as a light main course.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
- 3 medium potatoes (about 600g), peeled and cubed
- Water, for boiling
- Salt, to taste (divided)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 100g fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 large egg
- 100g Parmesan cheese, finely grated (divided)
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 6–7 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 5–6 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Oil, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
Step 1: Boil and Mash Potatoes
Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 teaspoon of salt .
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes , or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain thoroughly and return to the pot.
Mash with 1 tablespoon of butter , and season with a little salt and pepper .
Step 2: Sauté Onion & Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter .
Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes , until soft and golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes , just until fragrant—avoid browning.
Step 3: Wilt Spinach
Add the roughly chopped spinach to the skillet. Season lightly with salt and pepper .
Sauté for 2–3 minutes , until the spinach is just wilted. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Combine Filling
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes , onion-garlic-spinach mixture , egg , and half of the Parmesan cheese (50g) .
Mix well until everything is fully incorporated and forms a smooth, cohesive potato filling.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) .
Grease an 8-inch (20cm) round or square baking dish with oil.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly across the bottom—this helps create a crisp base.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread and smooth the top.
Gently nestle the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls into the surface.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese (50g) evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crisp.
A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 8: Rest & Serve
Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows it to set and makes cutting easier.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro , if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Success:
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pie ahead of time and refrigerate. Add extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Customize: Add cooked bacon, ham, or mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~2g
This Baked Spinach & Parmesan Potato Pie is a delicious way to enjoy classic comfort food with a touch of elegance. The creamy texture, savory flavors, and gooey cheese topping make it a standout dish for any occasion.
Serve it as a vegetarian main or a flavorful side—it’s sure to become a favorite!
