30-Minute Garlic Mozzarella Spinach Crostini
Crispy French bread toasted with garlic salt, topped with wilted spinach mixed into tangy cream cheese, then layered with melted mozzarella. A simple appetizer that comes together in minutes, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking. The contrast between the crunchy bread base and creamy, melted cheese topping makes this crowd-pleasing. Serve warm as a starter or light bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Cut French bread loaf in half lengthwise.
- 2
Place cut sides up on baking sheet and toast in oven until lightly browned.
- 3
Sprinkle toasted bread with garlic salt.
- 4
Cook spinach with small amount of water in saucepan until tender.
- 5
Drain spinach thoroughly and squeeze out all moisture.
- 6
Combine drained spinach with cream cheese and mix well.
- 7
Spread spinach mixture over toasted bread halves.
- 8
Lay mozzarella slices over spinach layer.
- 9
Broil until cheese melts completely.
- 10
Slice into 1- or 2-inch pieces and serve.
Tips
Squeeze spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture so the bread doesn't become soggy.
Watch broiler carefully as cheese melts quickly and can burn in seconds.
Good to Know
Store leftovers in airtight container up to 2 days refrigerated. Best served fresh.
Prepare spinach-cream cheese mixture up to 1 day ahead. Toast bread and assemble just before broiling.
Serve warm immediately after broiling. Arrange on platter with cocktail napkins for easy serving.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip draining spinach to avoid soggy, watery crostini.
Do not spread cheese mixture on untoasted bread to avoid soggy base.
Watch broiler constantly to avoid burnt cheese.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these ahead?
Toast bread and prepare spinach mixture separately up to 1 day ahead. Assemble and broil just before serving for best texture and melted cheese consistency.
What if I don't have a broiler?
Bake assembled crostini in a 400F oven for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Can I freeze these?
Freeze unbroiled assembled crostini on baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bag up to 1 month. Broil from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cooking time.