Baked Brie Spanakopita

Introduction

Baked Brie Spanakopita is a delicious fusion dish that marries the creamy richness of Brie cheese with the savory, flaky layers of traditional Greek spanakopita. This savory pastry is filled with a mixture of spinach, feta, and aromatic herbs, creating a balanced flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. When paired with Brie, the result is a luxurious and crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish that is perfect for entertaining or a cozy meal at home.

Whether you are hosting a party, gathering friends for a special occasion, or simply craving something indulgent, Baked Brie Spanakopita will surely be a hit. With its golden, flaky crust and creamy, gooey interior, this dish will transport you to the Mediterranean with each bite.

Perfect for:

• Special occasions and holiday gatherings
• Hosting dinner parties
• A delightful appetizer or main course
• Mediterranean flavor lovers
• Enjoying alongside a warm bowl of soup or salad

Why You’ll Love This Baked Brie Spanakopita Recipe

Here’s why Baked Brie Spanakopita will become your go-to dish for entertaining and family meals:

• Creamy Brie: The Brie cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich and creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the savory spinach mixture.
• Flaky Phyllo Pastry: The crisp, buttery layers of phyllo dough provide a satisfying crunch and make the pastry light and delicate.
• Flavorful Spinach and Feta Filling: Spinach and feta cheese, combined with fresh herbs and spices, create a savory filling that perfectly complements the Brie.
• Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe is completely halal, containing no pork, bacon, or wine, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For this Baked Brie Spanakopita recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 sheet of phyllo dough (about 12 sheets)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the phyllo dough)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing the phyllo dough)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 round (8 oz) Brie cheese, chilled
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Brie Cheese: Brie is a soft, creamy cheese that melts beautifully, making it the perfect addition to the spanakopita. It provides richness and a mild, buttery flavor.
• Spinach: A nutrient-packed vegetable, spinach adds freshness and earthiness to the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• Feta and Ricotta: These cheeses bring tang and creaminess to the spinach filling, complementing the Brie perfectly.
• Phyllo Dough: Phyllo dough creates a light, crispy crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling. Be sure to handle it gently to avoid tearing the sheets.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Brie Spanakopita

Follow these simple steps to prepare and bake the perfect Baked Brie Spanakopita:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Cook the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the spinach cooks evenly.
3. Season the Filling: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine the seasonings evenly.
4. Mix the Cheeses: Remove the spinach mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, and the cooked spinach mixture. Add the lemon juice and mix well to combine. Set aside.

Prepare the Phyllo Dough:

5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
6. Prepare the Phyllo: Unroll the phyllo dough and place it on a clean, dry surface. Brush the top sheet lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Layer another sheet of phyllo on top and brush it with butter again. Repeat this process until you have about 6 layers of phyllo dough.
7. Place the Brie: On top of the prepared phyllo dough, place the chilled Brie cheese, trimming the rind if desired (the rind is edible, but it can be removed if you prefer a milder flavor). Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture over the Brie, covering it completely.

Assemble and Bake:

8. Wrap the Brie: Carefully fold the edges of the phyllo dough over the filling, bringing the corners toward the center to enclose the Brie and spinach mixture. If needed, add a few more sheets of phyllo on top to completely encase the filling. Brush the top with more melted butter or olive oil to ensure a golden, crispy crust.
9. Bake: Place the assembled pastry on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crisp.
10. Cool and Serve: Let the Baked Brie Spanakopita cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.

How to Serve Baked Brie Spanakopita

Baked Brie Spanakopita can be served in a variety of ways to elevate your meal or gathering:

• With Fresh Bread: Serve the spanakopita with slices of warm, crusty baguette or pita bread for a delicious combination of textures.
• As an Appetizer: Cut the Baked Brie Spanakopita into smaller pieces to serve as an appetizer at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Pair with Salad: Serve with a light, refreshing salad, such as a Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, for a well-rounded meal.
• With Dips: Consider pairing this dish with a creamy yogurt or tzatziki sauce for extra richness and flavor.

Additional Tips for Baked Brie Spanakopita

Here are some helpful tips to make your Baked Brie Spanakopita even more perfect:

• Work Quickly with Phyllo Dough: Phyllo dough dries out quickly, so keep the sheets covered with a damp towel while you work to prevent them from becoming brittle.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients in the filling, such as sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.
• Chill the Brie: Chilling the Brie cheese before baking helps it hold its shape and ensures that it melts evenly within the pastry.
• Brush with Ghee: For a richer flavor, try brushing the phyllo dough with ghee instead of butter or olive oil.

Recipe Variations of Baked Brie Spanakopita

Here are some fun variations you can try with your Baked Brie Spanakopita:

1. Mushroom and Brie Spanakopita: Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach and feta filling for an earthy, umami flavor.
2. Sun-Dried Tomato Spanakopita: Mix chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the spinach and cheese filling for a tangy and vibrant twist.
3. Artichoke Spinach Brie: Add canned or marinated artichoke hearts to the filling for a Mediterranean flair.
4. Nutty Spinach Spanakopita: Stir in toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts into the spinach mixture for added texture.
5. Zaatar-Spiced Spanakopita: Incorporate za’atar seasoning into the filling for a Middle Eastern-inspired version.
6. Sweet and Savory Spanakopita: Add a drizzle of honey or fig jam over the baked spanakopita for a sweet contrast to the savory filling.
7. Vegan Spanakopita: Use plant-based cheese alternatives and olive oil to make this dish vegan-friendly.
8. Caramelized Onion and Brie Spanakopita: Add sweet caramelized onions to the filling for extra flavor complexity.
9. Spinach and Ricotta Brie Rolls: Instead of making a single large pastry, roll the filling in individual portions of phyllo dough for a more bite-sized version.
10. Smoked Salmon Spanakopita: Add smoked salmon to the spinach filling for a luxurious, fishy twist on this savory dish.

Freezing and Storage for Baked Brie Spanakopita

• Freezing: You can freeze the Baked Brie Spanakopita before baking. Simply assemble the pastry and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, remove from the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to maintain the crispness of the phyllo dough.

Special Equipment for Baked Brie Spanakopita

Here are some items that might be helpful when making Baked Brie Spanakopita:

• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet with parchment paper will make it easier to bake and remove the pastry without it sticking.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is essential for evenly applying butter or olive oil to the phyllo dough.
• Phyllo Dough: Store-bought phyllo dough makes this recipe easy and accessible. Be sure to thaw it in advance if frozen.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will help you slice through the baked pastry neatly for serving.
• Large Skillet: A large skillet is needed to sauté the spinach and vegetables for the filling.

FAQ Section about Baked Brie Spanakopita

1. Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie? Yes, you can substitute Brie with other creamy cheeses like Camembert or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the spanakopita up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free? No, the phyllo dough used in this recipe contains gluten. However, you can look for gluten-free phyllo dough as an alternative.
4. Can I make this vegan? Yes, you can make this dish vegan by using plant-based cheese alternatives and olive oil instead of butter.
5. How can I make this spicier? If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the spinach filling for a spicy kick.

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Conclusion of Baked Brie Spanakopita

Baked Brie Spanakopita is a delightful and savory dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or casual meal. With its flaky, buttery phyllo crust, creamy Brie cheese, and flavorful spinach filling, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or side, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. Enjoy every bite!