Baked Spinach Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Spinach Casserole is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet in a delicious and comforting way. The creamy cheese mixture blends beautifully with the spinach, making it a flavorful dish that both kids and adults will enjoy. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly contrasts with the creamy interior. It’s easy to prepare, and the casserole is versatile enough to be served with a variety of main dishes. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option for busy days!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh spinach (or 1 lb frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for the topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.

2. Prepare the spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and cook it down in a large skillet over medium heat until wilted. Once wilted, drain any excess water and chop the spinach. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible before using.

3. Mix the cheese filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), eggs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme (if using), and milk. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine spinach and cheese mixture: Add the cooked spinach to the cheese mixture and stir to combine evenly.

5. Assemble the casserole: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

6. Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or a main course!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use different cheese: Swap mozzarella for another cheese like cheddar, gouda, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

• Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese alternatives, such as vegan ricotta, dairy-free sour cream, and plant-based mozzarella, to make the casserole vegan-friendly.

• Add more vegetables: You can add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or onions to the mixture for extra vegetables and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out all the excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, Parmesan, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the texture if needed.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the dish gluten-free.

5. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, and the center is bubbly. You can also test it by inserting a fork into the center—if it comes out hot, it’s ready.

6. How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh jalapeños to the spinach and cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

7. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble it, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

8. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with roasted potatoes, a side salad, or a piece of crusty bread for a complete meal.

9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese, dairy-free sour cream, and non-dairy milk.

Conclusion

Baked Spinach Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty greens, making it a deliciously comforting dish. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a fantastic side dish or vegetarian main course that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as part of a larger spread, this casserole is sure to become a favorite!

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