This Spinach Rice Casserole with Feta Cheese is the kind of cozy-meets-fresh dish that makes dinner feel both effortless and exciting. Think creamy feta, fluffy brown rice, savory sautéed spinach, and a kiss of dill—all baked to golden perfection. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Bonus? It makes a great meatless main or the ultimate Mediterranean-style side!
Spinach and feta is a flavor combo that never goes out of style—it’s earthy, creamy, salty, and comforting all at once. This spinach rice casserole is a wholesome, flavor-packed bake that brings together hearty grains, leafy greens, and creamy cheese—all in one easy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. If you love the flavor of spanakopita then you'll want to add this veggie-forward dish to your rotation.
Inspired by my love for baked Mediterranean flavors, this cheesy casserole pairs beautifully with pan-fried creamy salmon or greek feta salad for a complete meal.
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💖 Why This Recipe Works
- Easy to Make – Basic pantry staples, minimal chopping, and one pan to bake it all in.
- Perfect Texture – Creamy, fluffy, and just a little crisp on top.
- Versatile – Serve it as a vegetarian main or a side dish with grilled meats or paprika shrimp.
- Packed with Flavor – Feta, dill, garlic, lemon... it’s a flavor-packed bite every time!
🌟 Star Ingredients
- Spinach – Loaded with iron and vibrant green goodness, spinach is the veggie backbone of this dish. You can use fresh or frozen (thawed and squeezed dry).
- Cooked Brown Rice – Adds a nutty, hearty texture and keeps things filling. Perfect for using up leftovers or meal-prepped rice.
- Feta Cheese – Brings that salty, creamy, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the spinach and herbs.
- Eggs + Sour Cream – This duo helps hold everything together and gives the bake its creamy, fluffy texture with a little tang.
For the complete list of ingredients with measurements and instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
- No Dill? Try basil, oregano, or a pinch of mint instead.
- Want Protein? Stir in leftover grilled chicken, cooked turkey, or chickpeas.
- Extra Cheesy? Add a handful of mozzarella or cheddar for gooey, melty goodness.
- Amp the Mediterranean Vibes – Toss in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped artichokes.
🔪How To Make Spinach Rice Casserole
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Sauté the shallots until tender,
- Step 2: Add the spinach and garlic, cooking until the spinach is just warmed. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Step 3: Combine the cooked spinach mixture with rice, feta cheese, dill, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the egg and sour cream into the rice mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine.
- Step 6: Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet, smoothing the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown.
- Step 7: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
- Step 8: Serve your spinach rice casserole on its own or with your favorite meat dish.
💡 Hint: Make this ahead! This spinach rice casserole holds up beautifully in the fridge and tastes even better the next day. Just reheat gently and enjoy leftovers for lunch all week long.
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- Use Day-Old Rice: It's drier and helps the casserole hold its shape better.
- Go for Block Feta: Crumble it yourself for a creamier, more flavorful bite.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for a golden, crispy finish that adds texture and extra flavor.
💭 FAQs
Yes, you can use frozen chopped spinach instead of fresh. Just thaw it first and press out excess water with a towel or cheesecloth.
Not at all. White rice, basmati, or even quinoa will work—just adjust cook time accordingly.
Yes, you can cook Spinach Rice Casserole in a baking dish! Simply transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish, spread it evenly, and bake as directed. A 9×13-inch dish works well for most recipes.
Yes! Freeze in slices, wrap tightly, and reheat in the oven or microwave for an easy meal.
Swap in dairy-free feta and vegan sour cream if you like—just make sure the texture still holds.
💖 Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Rice Casserole with Feta Cheese is delicious all on its own, but here are a few dreamy pairings:
Pair this spinach rice casserole with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken or Air Fried Cod Fillet for a filling main, or add Roasted Broccolini and Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks for a cozy vegetarian spread.
🍽 More Tasty Casserole Recipes
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Spinach Rice Casserole With Feta Cheese
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp. Olive Oil
- ½ Cup Shallot Chopped Fine
- 10 oz. Frozen Spinach Thawed, Squeezed
- 2 tbsp. Garlic Minced
- 3 Cups Brown Rice Cooked
- ¾ Cup Feta Cheese Crumbled
- 1 tsp. Dry Dill
- Pinch Salt
- Pinch Pepper
- 4 Eggs
- ¼ Cup Sour Cream
- 1 tbsp. Lemon Juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Sauté the shallots until tender.
- Add the spinach and garlic, cooking until the spinach is just warmed. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Combine the cooked spinach mixture with rice, feta cheese, dill, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the egg and sour cream into the rice mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet, smoothing the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
- Serve your spinach rice casserole on its own or with your favorite meat dish.
Notes
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- Frozen Spinach is Totally Fine: Just thaw and squeeze out any moisture before adding to the skillet.
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- Use Day-Old Rice: It's drier and helps the casserole hold its shape better.
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- Go for Block Feta: Crumble it yourself for a creamier, more flavorful bite.
Nutrition
