Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheeses, vibrant spinach, and aromatic pesto with this Three Cheese Pesto Spinach Flatbread Pizza. Perfect for a quick meal or as a savory appetizer, this recipe offers gourmet flavors with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Flavorful Combination: The trio of cheeses paired with pesto and spinach creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Versatile: Suitable as a main course, appetizer, or party snack.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with additional toppings or substitutions to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh spinach
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic clove
- Heavy cream (or whole milk)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Garlic naan flatbread
- Mozzarella cheese, grated
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Basil pesto
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Prepare the Spinach Mixture:
- Roughly chop the fresh spinach and mince the garlic.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach to the skillet, sautéing until the spinach wilts.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Flatbread:
- Place the garlic naan flatbread on a baking sheet lined with foil or a silicone baking mat.
- Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the flatbread.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Drizzle the basil pesto over the cheeses.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden finish, switch the oven to broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Slice and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 3 slices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes.
- Total Time: 30 minutes.
Variations
- Protein Addition: Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Vegetable Boost: Add sliced tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the flatbread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flatbread?
Yes, you can use pita bread, lavash, or even a pre-baked pizza crust as alternatives.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Whole milk can be used, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream.
Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the spinach mixture in advance and assemble just before baking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flatbread or pizza crust to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
What can I serve alongside this flatbread pizza?
A fresh green salad or a bowl of soup complements this dish well.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the flatbread may become soggy upon reheating.
How do I prevent the flatbread from becoming too crispy?
Monitor the baking time closely and avoid overbaking. If you prefer a softer crust, reduce the initial baking time by a couple of minutes.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely, store-bought pesto works well and saves time.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this flatbread pizza is vegetarian-friendly.
How can I add more flavor to the spinach mixture?
Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or some sautéed onions for additional depth of flavor.
Conclusion
This Three Cheese Pesto Spinach Flatbread Pizza offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with variations to make it your own!
PrintThree Cheese Pesto Spinach Flatbread Pizza
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 flatbreads (2–4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Three Cheese Pesto Spinach Flatbread Pizza is a fast and flavorful way to satisfy your pizza cravings! Creamy pesto, melty cheese, and fresh spinach all come together on a crispy flatbread for a delicious homemade meal in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy days or meatless dinners!
Ingredients
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2 flatbreads or naan (store-bought or homemade)
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1/3 cup basil pesto
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1 cup fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Olive oil, for brushing
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Place flatbreads on a baking sheet and lightly brush with olive oil.
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Spread a generous layer of pesto over each flatbread.
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Top with chopped spinach, then sprinkle on mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses.
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Season with a little salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
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Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden.
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Slice and serve warm!
Notes
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Add extra toppings like sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts.
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For a crispier crust, bake directly on the oven rack.
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Easily make it gluten-free with gluten-free flatbread.
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