Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Savory Spinach and Cheese Tortilla Bake?
It is a delightful one-dish meal featuring a crispy flour tortilla base filled with fresh spinach, creamy cheese, and a seasoned egg mixture.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 5 jumbo eggs, though 7 large eggs can be used as a substitute.
Can I use any type of milk?
Yes, you can use any milk type, and it is considered an optional ingredient for the egg mixture.
How should the garlic be prepared?
You should use 3 roasted garlic cloves and crush them before whisking them into the egg mixture.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
It can be made vegetarian if you omit the optional cooked bacon slices.
What size tortilla is needed?
The recipe requires one large flour tortilla to serve as the crust for the bake.
What type of cheese should I use?
You can use 1.5 cups of any shredded cheese blend of your choice.
How much spinach is included in the bake?
The recipe uses 3 cups of fresh spinach, which can be washed and left whole or chopped.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 365ยฐF (185ยฐC) for the best results.
What kind of baking dish is best for this recipe?
A glass pie dish is recommended because it helps achieve a perfect golden crust on the tortilla.
How do I fit the tortilla into the pie dish?
Lightly press the flour tortilla into the dish so it covers the bottom and sides; it does not need to lay perfectly flat.
How do I layer the ingredients inside the tortilla?
Start with 1/2 cup of cheese, then add the spinach, followed by the remaining cheese, and finally the egg mixture.
How long should the tortilla bake be in the oven?
Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the egg is set.
How do I check if the bake is fully cooked?
The bake is ready when a fork inserted into the center comes out clean.
Should I let the dish cool before slicing?
Yes, allowing the pie to cool for a few minutes makes it easier to slice into clean wedges.
Can I add other vegetables to this bake?
Absolutely! You can customize it by adding sautรฉed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes.
Is there a recommended side dish?
Serving the bake with a side of homemade salsa provides a great flavor boost.
Can I use feta cheese in this recipe?
Yes, adding crumbled feta cheese is a recommended way to add a twist to the filling.
What seasonings are used in the egg mixture?
The mixture is seasoned with lemon pepper, crushed roasted garlic, and a dash of salt.
How should I pour the eggs into the dish?
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layers to ensure it doesn't spill over the edges of the tortilla.
Is the spinach cooked before being added?
No, the fresh spinach is added raw and will cook inside the oven as the bake heats.
Can this be served for breakfast?
Yes, it is versatile enough to be served for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
What is the texture of the crust?
The flour tortilla base becomes crispy and golden during the baking process.
Can I add bacon to this recipe?
Yes, adding 3 slices of chopped, cooked bacon is an optional way to enhance the savory flavor.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, its mild but savory flavors and easy preparation make it a hit for family weeknight dinners.
How do I cut the tortilla bake?
Use a sharp knife to cut the bake into wedges, similar to how you would slice a traditional pie.
What makes this dish a one-dish meal?
It combines protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates all within a single pie dish, minimizing cleanup.
Can I use different spices?
Yes, while lemon pepper is suggested, you can customize the seasonings to your preference.
How should the spinach be packed?
Press down gently on the spinach when layering it to ensure you can fit all 3 cups into the tortilla.
Does the recipe require any special skills?
No, it is an easy recipe that primarily involves whisking, layering, and baking.