Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares

Category: Food That Makes People Think You've Got Life Figured Out

These bacon cheddar spinach squares combine the smoky crunch of thick-cut bacon, sharp cheddar, and pepper jack cheese with tender spinach and aromatic herbs for a flavorful bite. The mixture—featuring sautéed onion, a dash of lemon juice, and a blend of spices—creates a rich, savory base. Baked until golden and irresistible, each square delivers cheesy goodness, making them a popular choice for parties, family sides, or casual snacking. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature; the texture holds beautifully for serving. Simple prep, satisfying taste, and crowd-pleasing appeal in every slice.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Fri, 08 Aug 2025 22:15:02 GMT
Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares. Save
Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares. | lilicooks.com

These savory Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares are loaded with smoky bacon crispy sharp cheddar and plenty of veggies for a side or appetizer that always disappears fast I love serving them at game nights and holiday parties because they are hardy bite sized and so simple to make ahead

I started making these years ago for neighborhood potlucks They became such a hit that friends would text for the recipe weeks later Whenever I have leftovers they never last a day in my house

Ingredients

  • Thick cut bacon: brings smoky salty flavor Use a block-style bacon for bigger bites and less shrinkage
  • Frozen chopped spinach: offers convenience and texture Squeeze it really dry for best results
  • All purpose flour: creates structure Use a fresh bag for lighter baking
  • Baking powder: helps the squares puff slightly Select an aluminum free variety for a clean taste
  • Kosher salt: balances bold flavors Go for fine grain for even mixing
  • Dried oregano and dried thyme: add layers of herb flavor Mediterranean blends work perfectly
  • Black pepper: brings subtle heat Fresh cracked will be more aromatic
  • Milk: keeps the mix moist Whole milk is ideal for richness
  • Lemon juice: brightens and activates the baking powder Fresh squeezed makes a difference
  • Large eggs: bind everything Use room temperature eggs for best incorporation
  • Seriously Sharp Cheddar Cheese: delivers tangy depth Look for hand-shredded cheese from a block for meltability
  • Pepper Jack Cheese: infuses an extra kick Pre-shredded works in a pinch but hand-shredded blends better
  • Yellow onion: diced fine for gentle sweetness Choose a firm heavy onion for best flavor
  • Minced garlic: wakes up all the flavors Fresh minced will outperform jarred every time

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Bacon:
Begin by cooking the bacon in a large skillet until very crisp Set aside on a towel lined plate and let cool so the fat solidifies This makes it easier to crumble and mix throughout the batter for rich bites in every piece
Prepare the Spinach:
Cook the spinach straight from frozen following the package instructions When ready squeeze out every last bit of liquid using paper towels or a dishcloth Dry spinach is key or the squares will turn soggy
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl combine flour baking powder salt oregano pepper and thyme Stir well so the leavening and seasoning are completely blended to prevent flavor pockets
Combine Wet Ingredients and Bacon:
Add milk lemon juice eggs two cups of cheddar cheese Pepper Jack cheese diced onions and minced garlic to the spinach and bacon mixture This is where the base comes together Use a sturdy spoon to work everything until no streaks of flour remain
Assemble and Top:
Spray your baking pan liberally with nonstick spray to avoid sticking Pour in the thick spinach mixture and press it gently into corners Even out the top with a spatula for uniform texture Sprinkle the last half cup of cheddar cheese all over so you get a bubbly golden crust
Bake and Cool:
Slide the pan into a preheated oven at three seventy five degrees and bake forty five to fifty minutes until deep golden and completely set The edges should pull slightly from the sides Cool at least fifteen minutes for clean cutting
Slice and Serve:
Use a sharp knife to portion the warm or room temperature bake into squares Serve piled on a platter or right from the pan for a rustic look
Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares stacked on a plate. Save
Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares stacked on a plate. | lilicooks.com

You Must Know

  • Packed with protein and calcium thanks to cheese and bacon
  • Can be frozen for quick snacks anytime
  • Perfect way to use up leftover spinach or bits of cheese

Using sharp cheddar really boosts the savory flavor which makes this dish impossible for my family to resist The first time I whipped this up my grandfather ate half the tray before dinner even started and now it is the most requested recipe at our reunions

Storage Tips

Wrap the squares tightly after cooling and refrigerate up to four days For best fresh flavor store in layers with parchment paper If you plan to freeze separate the squares first before stacking in an airtight bag Reheat in a low oven or microwave until just warmed through

Ingredient Substitutions

No cheddar Use a combo of Monterey Jack and Parmesan Craving more veggie vibes Try swapping half the spinach for tender kale or Swiss chard Turkey bacon or even plant based bacon works here for a lighter twist Change up the savory herbs with Italian seasoning or a dash of nutmeg

Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares. Save
Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares. | lilicooks.com

Serving Suggestions

Stack them onto a brunch board with fruit and muffins For a party pass with spicy mustard or ranch dipping sauce I also like to tuck a square into my kids lunchbox as a protein boost They go well with tomato soup for a cozy dinner at home

A Little History

Spinach cheese bakes like this have roots in European home kitchens where bits of vegetables and cheese were combined with eggs to make a hearty meal This version leans American with the addition of smoky bacon and sharp cheddar transforming humble ingredients into comfort food

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach can be substituted. Sauté and drain thoroughly before adding to the mixture to remove excess moisture.

→ What type of bacon works best?

Thick-cut bacon provides a satisfying texture and flavor, but you can use your preferred variety. Ensure it's cooked until crispy.

→ How should I store leftovers?

After cooling, store squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can these squares be frozen?

Yes, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Are there cheese alternatives to cheddar?

Feel free to experiment with other sharp or melting cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for flavor variations.

→ What can I serve with these squares?

Pair with fresh salads, soups, or fruit trays for a balanced meal or appetizer spread.

Bacon Cheddar Spinach Squares

Savory squares packed with bacon, cheddar, and spinach. Great warm or at room temperature for gatherings.

Preparation Time
25 min
Cooking Time
50 min
Overall Time
75 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Party & Snacks

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 15 Serves (15 squares)

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 8 oz thick-cut bacon
02 20 oz frozen chopped spinach
03 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
04 1 tsp baking powder
05 1 tsp kosher salt
06 ½ tsp dried oregano
07 ½ tsp black pepper
08 ¼ tsp dried thyme
09 1 cup milk
10 1 Tbsp lemon juice
11 3 large eggs
12 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (10 oz total)
13 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (4 oz)
14 1 medium yellow onion, diced
15 1 tsp minced garlic

Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Step 02

Using a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy.

Step 03

Cook the spinach according to the package instructions. Once cooked, press the spinach into a colander to drain out as much liquid as possible. Place spinach into a large mixing bowl.

Step 04

Press spinach firmly with paper towels to soak up the extra liquid.

Step 05

Crumble cooked bacon into the mixing bowl with the spinach. Add flour, baking powder, salt, oregano, pepper, and thyme; stir until well combined.

Step 06

Add milk, lemon juice, eggs, 2 cups of cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, diced onions, and minced garlic; stir until well combined.

Step 07

Spray a 9”x13” baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 08

Transfer mixture into prepared pan. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 09

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 10

Let cool in pan for 15 minutes before slicing into squares for serving.

Step 11

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

  1. Press the spinach firmly to remove as much liquid as possible for the best texture.

Required Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Paper towels
  • 9”x13” baking dish

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains gluten

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 243
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Proteins: ~