The first time I baked this delightful Artichoke Squares recipe, I was simply looking to use up some pantry staples. But as the savory aroma filled my kitchen, a wave of excitement washed over me—this dish was destined to be a family favorite! Imagine creamy cheddar mingling with the subtle earthiness of artichokes, all enveloped in fluffy baked eggs. It’s that scrumptious, comforting meal you crave while keeping the joy of homemade food alive.
Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy dinner, these Artichoke Squares are a breeze to whip up, boasting flavors that delight without the fuss. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just seeking a comforting, satisfying meal on a busy weeknight, these easy-to-make squares have you covered. With a hint of spice and the crunch of breadcrumbs, every bite promises a delicious surprise! Give this recipe a try—it could become your new go-to dish!
Why are Artichoke Squares so appealing?
Comfort Food: These Artichoke Squares bring together the rich creaminess of cheddar and the unique flavor of artichokes, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll find yourself serving a dish that looks and tastes gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Serving: Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even dinner, these squares can be adapted to fit any occasion, appealing to any crowd.
Flavorful Twist: The addition of Tabasco sauce adds a touch of heat, elevating this dish beyond ordinary egg bakes.
Impressive Presentation: Slice into these golden squares and watch as the gooey cheese pulls away—guaranteed to impress your guests.
Explore more ways to enjoy your egg dishes by checking out our guide on perfecting egg bakes for endless inspiration!
Artichoke Squares Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful blend of flavors with these essential ingredients!
For the Base
- 1/2 medium onion, minced – Aiming for a savory start, the onion adds a rich depth to the dish.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor; don’t skip it!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This helps sauté the onion and keeps everything moist.
- 1 14-ounce can of artichoke hearts in water – The star of the dish, artichokes add a unique, earthy taste.
For the Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley – Fresh parsley brightens the flavors and adds a hint of color.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your Artichoke Squares.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper – Just a hint of spice that makes the dish sing!
- 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano – The oregano rounds out the flavor profile with a touch of herbaceousness.
For the Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs – The binding agent that holds this delightful dish together!
- 1/8 teaspoon Tabasco sauce or your favorite hot pepper sauce – A splash of heat elevates these artichoke squares.
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup fine dried bread crumbs – Adds a lovely crunch and golden topping to your bake.
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 cups) – The creamy, cheesy goodness that makes these squares irresistible.
These Artichoke Squares ingredients come together in perfect harmony for an easy, delicious meal that will be a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Artichoke Squares
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Preheat the oven to 325°F. Prepare a 1 1/2 or 2-quart baking dish by spraying it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This helps ensure your Artichoke Squares won’t stick!
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Sauté the onion in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Cook until the onion is softened and starts to brown slightly, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Chop the drained artichoke hearts into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Add minced parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano, stirring everything together until well combined.
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Whisk together the eggs and Tabasco sauce in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture into the artichoke bowl along with the dry bread crumbs, stirring well to combine. Don’t forget to fold in the grated cheddar cheese!
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Spread the entire mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes, or until the top is set and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares and serving warm.
Optional: Sprinkle with additional parsley for a fresh touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Artichoke Squares
Fridge: Store leftover Artichoke Squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to retain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through, or microwave for a quick option. Enjoy warm!
Serving Tip: For the best flavor, reheat individual portions if possible, as this keeps the edges crispy while warming the center.
Tips for the Best Artichoke Squares
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Prep Ahead: Consider preparing your ingredients in advance. Chopping the onion and garlic the night before can save time when you’re ready to bake.
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Cheese Choice: Opt for sharp cheddar to maximize flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added depth in your Artichoke Squares.
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Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Ensure the artichokes are well-drained and patted dry. This prevents excess moisture from making the squares soggy.
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Add More Veggies: Feel free to sneak in other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the onion to enhance the flavor!
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Cool Before Cutting: Allow the Artichoke Squares to cool for a few minutes before slicing to help maintain their shape and make serving easier.
What to Serve with Artichoke Squares?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that enhance the comforting flavors of these scrumptious squares.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a crisp contrast, balancing the creamy richness of the Artichoke Squares perfectly. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for extra zing!
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Garlic Bread: The delicious aroma of garlic complements the savory flavors of the squares. Plus, who can resist crusty bread for scooping up every last bite?
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Roasted Vegetables: Opt for a medley of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. Their caramelized sweetness and slight char provide a satisfying texture alongside your egg bake.
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Fruit Salad: Brighten up your table with a colorful fruit salad. The sweetness of fruits like cantaloupe or berries adds a refreshing contrast to the savory squares.
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Herbed Quinoa: This wholesome grain dish, tossed with herbs and lemon, brings a lightness that pairs beautifully with the richness of cheese, making for a well-rounded plate.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly beverage with hints of citrus is both refreshing and uplifting, making it a splendid companion for your Artichoke Squares and adding a festive touch to any meal.
Each of these pairings adds its own charm while allowing your Artichoke Squares to shine as the star of the meal!
Artichoke Squares Variations
Looking to spice up your Artichoke Squares? Here are some delightful twists to make this dish uniquely yours!
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Spinach Addition: Fold in 1 cup of fresh spinach for added color and nutrients, giving your squares a vibrant green touch. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the fine dried bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a gluten-free version that still has a satisfying texture.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the Tabasco sauce to 1/4 teaspoon or add diced jalapeños for an extra punch. Your family will love the added warmth!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant twist. These herbs can elevate the dish’s taste to a whole new level!
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Creamy Alternative: Swap half of the cheddar for cream cheese to create extra creaminess. This variation will bring a delightful richness to your Artichoke Squares.
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Roasted Red Peppers: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor and beautiful color. They add not just taste but a touch of elegance!
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Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or pepper jack. Each will create a unique flavor experience, making your dish versatile for every craving.
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Herbed Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs instead of plain ones. This simple change adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile tremendously.
Each variation opens up a new world of flavors—so why not mix and match? Your kitchen is your canvas; paint it with deliciousness!
Make Ahead Options
These Artichoke Squares are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish even on your busiest days! You can prepare the entire mixture (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, pour the mixture into your prepared dish and bake at 325°F for about 30 minutes until golden. To maintain quality, avoid adding the bread crumbs until you’re ready to bake, as they’ll stay crispier in the oven. This way, you’ll have scrumptious Artichoke Squares ready to delight your family with minimal hassle!
Artichoke Squares Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe artichoke hearts?
Absolutely! When selecting canned artichoke hearts, look for those packed in water, not oil, for the best flavor and quality. They should be firm and not have dark spots or an off odor. Also, make sure the can is free from dents or bulges, as those can indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover Artichoke Squares?
Very simple! Store your leftover Artichoke Squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they’ve cooled down completely before sealing to retain freshness. You can also reheat them easily in the oven or microwave—just remember to check the temperature before serving!
Can I freeze my Artichoke Squares?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cooled Artichoke Squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. For reheating, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through. It’s really convenient for meal prep!
What can I do if my Artichoke Squares are too soggy?
If you find your Artichoke Squares soggy, the culprit is often excess moisture from the artichokes. To prevent this, make sure to drain and pat the artichoke hearts dry before chopping. You can also adjust the ratio of breadcrumbs to absorb more moisture in future bakes—it’s all about experimenting to find your perfect texture!
Are these Artichoke Squares suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! These squares can be modified to suit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones. If you have a dairy allergy, try using a plant-based cheese alternative. Always make sure to check the ingredients, particularly in the hot sauce, as some may contain gluten or dairy.
Savory Artichoke Squares: A Cheesy Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Sauté the onion in olive oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Chop the drained artichokes and mix with parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano in a bowl.
- Whisk together eggs and Tabasco in a separate bowl, then mix with artichoke mixture and fold in the cheddar.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish and bake for 30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before cutting.