Spinach and Feta Shepherd’s Bake

Name: Spinach and Feta Shepherd’s Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 200g feta cheese, crumbled; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Spinach and Feta Shepherd’s Bake when I want a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. The combination of creamy feta cheese, nutritious spinach, and a flaky pastry creates a deliciously satisfying dish that my family can’t get enough of. With this recipe, I found the perfect balance of seasoning and texture, ensuring every bite is layered with taste. It’s quick to prepare and absolutely perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:37:09.732Z

When I first made this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly everything came together. Carefully combining the spinach and feta really brings out their flavors, and I’ve learned that adding a dash of nutmeg enhances the earthiness of the spinach. I suggest using fresh spinach for the best texture!

During my countless attempts at perfecting this recipe, I discovered that a golden, flaky crust is essential. I usually let the pastry rest a bit before baking, which helps it puff up beautifully. Remember, the quality of the feta makes a significant difference—opting for a creamy version elevates the dish overall!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory flavors of spinach and feta create an irresistible combination
Comfort food that is both nourishing and satisfying
Perfectly crispy pastry that contrasts beautifully with the filling

Unlocking Flavor

The magic of Spinach and Feta Shepherd’s Bake lies in how the flavors meld together. The creamy feta not only adds a rich tang but also serves as a binding agent when mixed with the egg, helping to hold the spinach filling together as it cooks. When incorporating the spinach, remember to squeeze out excess water after wilting it in the skillet; this prevents a soggy texture in the final bake. Properly cooked spinach should be vibrant green and tender, making the filling both colorful and enjoyable.

A touch of nutmeg elevates the dish with subtle warmth, an element that often transforms a simple filling into something extraordinary. If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider increasing the nutmeg to ½ teaspoon, but be cautious not to overpower the delicate taste of the spinach and feta. Tasting your filling before sealing it ensures that the balance of salt and pepper is just right, resulting in every bite being perfectly seasoned.

Perfecting the Pastry

Using a high-quality puff pastry is essential for achieving that delightful flaky crust. When rolling out the pastry, ensure it’s not too thin; aim for about ¼ inch thickness for optimal puffing. If your pastry has been sitting out too long and becomes too soft to handle, simply place it back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up. This will help it maintain its structure and create a beautiful, airy texture in the oven.

As you prepare to assemble, keep an eye on the edges of your pastry. Sealing them well is crucial to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. A simple pinch or use of a fork to crimp the edges can ensure a secure seal. Additionally, for a decorative touch, you can cut small slits in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape, helping the bake achieve an even golden color and avoiding soggy spots.

Ingredients

For the Filling

300g fresh spinach, washed and chopped
200g feta cheese, crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pastry

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled feta, beaten egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let it cool slightly.

Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut into a rectangle that fits your baking dish. Spread the filling in the center, leaving edges clear for folding. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges.

Bake the Dish

Place this on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with the beaten egg to give it a golden color. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider stirring in some sundried tomatoes or olives into the filling. They pair wonderfully with the feta and spinach.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the spinach and feta filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. When you're ready to bake, let the filling come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before using it in your pastry to ensure even cooking.

The assembled shepherd's bake can also be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, simply bake it from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure that the center is hot and the pastry is perfectly golden.

Serving Suggestions

This bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, adding a bright, complementary element to your meal. A tangy yogurt sauce or tzatziki on the side can enhance the flavors, giving a cool contrast to the warm, savory filling. You could also sprinkle additional feta on top of the bake before serving for extra cheesiness and visual appeal.

For a twist on the recipe, try adding other vegetables like artichokes or roasted red peppers to the filling. You can also substitute the feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture or try adding herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness. These variations can keep the dish exciting and allow for different flavor profiles depending on your mood or the season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it primarily uses spinach and feta.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove any excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I add other ingredients to this bake?

Definitely! Feel free to add cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some herbs for extra flavor.