Browse through our list of the best canned spinach recipes and gain useful insights into cooking this convenient ingredient and smart buying tips.
When we were kids, we enjoyed eating canned spinach because we thought it would make us strong, just like the cartoon character Popeye.
Though gaining super strength from spinach might be a bit unrealistic, canned spinach offers many good things.
Besides being nutritious, canned food is known for its versatility and long shelf life, plus it can be used in soups, casseroles, and even pasta sauces.
Spinach offers a lot of spinach in a single can, just be sure to adjust your recipes for the salt content and drain the spinach really well.
We’ve curated a list of the best canned spinach recipes that will change any doubter’s mind.
From the classic creamed spinach to underrated spinach quiche, you will want more of these Popeye-approved dishes.
- Check the expiration date. Unopened canned goods can last for years, but it’s crucial to check the expiration date before purchasing them.
- Look for BPA-free cans. BPA is a harmful chemical that can contaminate food from BPA-lined cans. Look for “BPA-free” products.
- Check for damage. If cans are dented, rusted, or swollen, do not use them, as they could have food safety issues.
- Read the label. Check canned vegetables for spinach as the main ingredient and no unwanted additives, as some may have added sugars or preservatives.
- Buy in bulk. Buy canned spinach in bulk to save money if you use it often, but ensure you have enough storage space and consume it before it expires.
- Consider the flavor and texture. Different brands of canned spinach can vary in flavor and texture. Go for a low-sodium version if you are sensitive to too much salt.
- Read the reviews. Read online reviews to learn from others’ experiences and opinions.
Tips On Cooking With Canned Spinach
Cooking with canned spinach can be a convenient way to add greens to your meals. Here are some tips to help you make the most of canned spinach:
- Drain the spinach well. Drain canned spinach well before adding to most recipes.
- Rinse the spinach if desired. Rinse high-sodium canned spinach to reduce salt content.
- Season the spinach. Canned spinach somewhat lacks freshness, so season it to taste using salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite spice blends.
- Adjust cooking times. Canned spinach is already cooked.
- Add spinach to your favorite dishes. Add canned spinach to omelets, soups, stews, pasta dishes, and casseroles.
- Storage. If you don’t use the entire can of spinach, transfer any leftovers to a covered container and store them in the refrigerator.
Best Canned Spinach Recipes
For those who love the convenience of an air fryer, here’s another straightforward reheating method that goes a step above the microwave.
Ingredients include: Canned spinach, butter, and seasonings.
Creamed spinach is made by mixing spinach with a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a scrumptious side that goes well with many meals. Because canned spinach has plenty of salt, keep that in mind when adding your seasoning.
Ingredients include: Spinach, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, butter, and shallot.
You can quickly whip up this versatile Spinach With Eggs Breakfast for any meal of the day. It even offers options for scrambled egg lovers.
Ingredients include: Olive oil, spinach, salt, black pepper, and eggs.
This dish shines by enhancing the taste of canned spinach with other ingredients. The recipe also allows you to use various types of canned spinach available on the market.
Ingredients include: Mushrooms, butter, spinach, pepper, and tomato.
Mix all the ingredients to make the tangy, salsa-like Southern Caviar Dip. After chilling it for at least 3 hours, enjoy this dip with chips, fresh vegetables, or crackers.
Ingredients include: Canned peas, canned beans, canned spinach, red bell pepper, and cumin.
Spinach Gratin, a creamy side dish with a crisp topping, is an ideal choice for any meal. Ready in 35 minutes, this gratin highlights the use of nutmeg and crushed buttery crackers.
Ingredients include: Canned spinach, butter, onion, cream cheese, and nutmeg.
Garlic and butter enrich this Fried Spinach recipe, making it savory, creamy, and easy to eat. The quick frying of spinach with other ingredients results in a warm, hearty dish.
Ingredients include: Canned spinach, egg, milk, and bacon bits.
This savory dip delivers a satisfying crunch and gooey center. It’s great for make-ahead party preparations and offers diverse pairing options from chips to veggies and bread.
Ingredients include: Spinach, canned artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, and sour cream.
The spinach makes the dip creamy and tasty, and the crab adds a rich flavor. Make it in 15 minutes, cool it, then sprinkle some chives to add a fresh, aromatic taste. Here are some tips for reheating spinach dip if you like yours warmed up.
Ingredients include: Canned spinach, crab meat, cream cheese, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
I grew up with a spinach casserole much like this one. My mom made it in a bain marie (water bath) so the edges didn’t get too crisp. The bacon and crisp onion topping would really make this next level. It’s going to be salty, so consider rinsing your canned spinach and draining well before adding to the recipe.
Ingredients include: Canned spinach, eggs, bacon, mushroom soup, and cheddar.
This Mini Crescent Burritos recipe turns weeknights into something extraordinary. It isn’t only speedy to prepare but also brings the ease and nutrition of canned spinach to your table.
Ingredients include: Spinach, chicken breast, taco seasoning mix, salsa, and egg white.
You can customize this light breakfast dish to your taste. Make it spicier, add more cheese, or increase the protein. It remains fresh in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days, but freezing is not recommended.
Ingredients include: Spinach, butter, onion, milk, eggs, and thyme.
This traditional Persian food calls for spinach and eggs, all cooked in a turmeric-spiced sauce. Serve Nargesi with freshly baked bread or basmati rice.
Ingredients include: Olive oil, spinach, turmeric, egg, and pepper.
Here’s a fantastic option for a wholesome breakfast. This Spinach & Cheese Omelet is made with creamy eggs, spinach, and your favorite cheese, then topped with butter and fresh chives.
Ingredients include: Egg, spinach, cheese, butter, salt, and pepper.
This curry is full of flavor and straightforward, using canned chickpeas and spinach. Feel free to add extra chili if you like it spicier. Serve with steamed rice and plain yogurt.
Ingredients include: Canned tomatoes, canned chickpeas, canned spinach, rapeseed oil, and red onion.
This appetizer is a creamy twist on the classic spinach dip. The recipe mixes cream cheese and sour cream with the vibrant flavors of spinach and red pepper.
Ingredients include: Canned spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, onion soup mix, and red pepper.
This skillet recipe offers a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy canned spinach as a main dish. Combining sautéed onions, garlic, and spices adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Ingredients include: Bacon, spinach, chicken stock, white sugar, and hot sauce.
18. Garlic Spinach
This Garlic Spinach dish stands out for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. The quick cooking time also makes the recipe convenient for anyone seeking an easy addition to their meals.
Ingredients include: Butter, onion, garlic, and canned spinach.
This recipe takes the classic spinach artichoke dip to a whole new level. It’s bursting with creamy, cheesy flavor with notes from spinach and artichoke hearts.
Ingredients include: Cream cheese, artichoke hearts, spinach, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Popeye’s Cheesy Spinach & Tomato Quiche is a flexible meal that can be served any part of the day. It offers a flaky pastry crust filled with a creamy egg mixture.
Ingredients include: Eggs, mayo, black pepper, canned spinach, and tomatoes.
Ready in just 20 minutes this recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients. It combines bacon and canned spinach, then flavored with garlic and garlic.
Ingredients include: Bacon, canned spinach, chicken stock, hot sauce, and white vinegar.
This Creamy Spinach Sauce is an easy way to add a luxurious touch to your favorite dishes. It can be served over pasta, chicken, or rice or used as a vegetable dip.
Ingredients include: Butter, all-purpose flour, basil, milk, and canned spinach.
Spinach and Hamburger Burritos are a flavorful and simple pan-fry meal that takes less than thirty minutes to make. These burritos can be tweaked to your liking.
Ingredients include: Spinach, ground beef, Mexican cheese, olive oil, and honey mustard.
This Cheesy Spinach Dip is excellent for parties and game nights. The dip is baked until bubbly and golden and is best served with celery sticks, crackers, or tortilla chips.
Need tips for reheating? We got you.
Ingredients include: Spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, and Worcestershire sauce.
This dish will become a new family favorite. Made with simple veggies, it’s seasoned with Indian spices. Serve with plain Greek yogurt and pita or naan bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients include: Vegetable oil, onion, garlic, ground ginger, and cayenne pepper.
The bottom line
Canned spinach is a kitchen hero waiting to be appreciated. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t overlook that humble can of spinach.
25 Best Canned Spinach Recipes
Canned spinach makes quick work of weeknight meal planning or using up what you have in the cabinet. Adjust for salt content and drain the spinach really well.
Ingredients
- Air Fried Canned Spinach
- Creamed Spinach
- Spinach With Egg Breakfast
- Spinach & Tomatoes
- Southern Caviar Dip
- Baked Spinach Gratin
- Fried Spinach
- Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Spinach & Crab Dip
- Spinach Casserole
- Mini Crescent Burritos
- Eggs With Spinach
- Persian Spinach & Eggs (Nargesi)
- Spinach & Cheese Omelet
- Chickpea & Spinach Curry
- Spinach Dip With Red Pepper
- Canned Spinach Skillet
- Garlic Spinach
- Mini Spinach Artichoke Dip Casserole
- Cheesy Spinach & Tomato Quiche
- Canned Spinach With Bacon
- Creamy Spinach Sauce
- Spinach & Hamburger Burritos
- Cheesy Spinach Dip
- White Pea & Spinach Indian Masala
Instructions
- Check our Canned Spinach Recipes list.
- Select a dish.
- Cook to your heart's content!
- Don't forget to share this list of meal inspiration!