Creamed Spinach Casserole

My family? They are a tough crowd, especially when it comes to vegetables. Getting them to eat anything green that isn’t disguised in a smoothie can feel like a monumental task. So, when I first decided to try my hand at Creamed Spinach Casserole, I wasn’t holding my breath for rave reviews. Boy, was I wrong! From the moment the aroma of creamy, cheesy goodness started wafting from the oven, they were intrigued. And the first bite? Silence, followed by enthusiastic murmurs and second helpings. This isn’t your grandma’s bland, watery spinach dish. This Creamed Spinach Casserole is rich, decadent, and packed with flavor. It’s become a surprisingly requested side dish at our family dinners, holiday gatherings, and even just a cozy weeknight meal. Trust me, even the most ardent spinach skeptics will be converted by this recipe. It’s truly a comfort food classic, elevated and irresistible.

Ingredients: Your Shopping List for Creamy Spinach Bliss

This Creamed Spinach Casserole is all about simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Frozen Spinach (2 pounds): Frozen spinach is convenient and works beautifully in this casserole. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This prevents a watery casserole.
• Cream Cheese (8 ounces): Full-fat cream cheese is key for that rich, creamy texture. It adds tanginess and body to the sauce. Soften it to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Heavy cream contributes to the luxurious creaminess of the sauce and adds richness. You can substitute with half-and-half for a slightly lighter version, but heavy cream delivers the best results.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Milk thins out the sauce to the perfect consistency, ensuring it’s not too thick but still coats the spinach beautifully. Whole milk is recommended for richness, but 2% will also work.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium): A yellow onion provides a mild, savory base flavor for the casserole. Dice it finely so it cooks through evenly and blends seamlessly into the sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Fresh garlic is essential for adding aromatic depth and flavor. Mince it finely or use a garlic press to release its full flavor.
• Butter (4 tablespoons): Butter is used to sauté the onion and garlic, adding richness and flavor. It also helps to create a smooth base for the cream sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons): Flour is used to create a roux, which thickens the cream sauce and gives it its signature creamy texture.
• Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch of ground nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the spinach and cream beautifully. It enhances the overall flavor profile without being overpowering.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste. Adjust to your preference.
• Shredded Cheese for Topping (1 ½ cups): Choose a cheese that melts well and adds flavor. Gruyere, mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, or a combination are all excellent choices. Gruyere offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, mozzarella provides stretch and mildness, cheddar brings sharpness, and Parmesan adds a salty, umami note.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Creamed Spinach Casserole Perfection

Follow these detailed instructions to create a Creamed Spinach Casserole that will impress everyone at the table:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking and ensures easy serving later. You can use butter, cooking spray, or olive oil to grease the dish.
2. Thaw and Drain the Spinach Thoroughly: If using frozen spinach (which is recommended for convenience and consistency), ensure it is completely thawed. Place the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, gather the edges, and squeeze out as much excess water as you possibly can. This step is crucial! Excess water will result in a watery casserole, diluting the flavors and ruining the creamy texture. Squeeze, squeeze, squeeze until you feel like you’ve gotten every last drop. Once drained, roughly chop the spinach to make it easier to incorporate into the casserole.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted and shimmering, add the finely diced yellow onion. Sauté the onion for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent browning. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Sautéing the onion and garlic first develops their flavors and creates a flavorful base for the casserole.
4. Create the Cream Sauce: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic in the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken further. This simmering process is important for developing a rich and creamy sauce.
5. Incorporate the Cream Cheese and Spices: Reduce the heat to very low. Add the softened cream cheese to the sauce, a little at a time, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Ensure the cream cheese is fully incorporated to prevent any lumps in the sauce. Stir in the ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper – they are crucial for bringing out the flavors. A pinch more nutmeg can also enhance the warmth of the dish.
6. Combine Spinach and Sauce: Add the squeezed and chopped spinach to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Stir well to thoroughly coat the spinach with the sauce. Make sure the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is heated through and incorporated into the sauce.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the spinach and cream sauce mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the spinach mixture. Ensure the cheese covers the entire surface for a beautiful golden-brown crust.
8. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese topping is melted and golden brown. The cheese should be nicely browned and slightly crispy in spots.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and cool down enough to serve comfortably. Resting also helps the flavors to meld together even further. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts: A Look at What’s Inside (Per Serving)

This Creamed Spinach Casserole is a decadent and flavorful dish. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information per serving (estimated and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size):

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
• Servings Per Recipe: 12
• Calories: 250-350 kcal
• Fat: 20-30g

Important Note: These are estimated values and can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used, the type of cheese, and the exact serving size. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients you use. This casserole is relatively high in fat due to the cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheese topping, but it also provides a good source of protein and some vitamins and minerals from the spinach.

Preparation Time: From Pantry to Oven in a Breeze

This Creamed Spinach Casserole is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday side dishes.

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (This includes thawing and draining spinach, chopping vegetables, and preparing the sauce.)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (Baking time in the oven.)
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes

From start to finish, you can have this delicious and comforting casserole on the table in under an hour. The majority of the time is hands-off baking time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal preparation.

How to Serve: Unlock the Versatility of Creamed Spinach Casserole

Creamed Spinach Casserole is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Side Dish: Serve it alongside roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak for a classic and comforting meal. It pairs especially well with richer proteins, balancing their flavors with its creamy texture and subtle spinach notes.
• Holiday Feast Staple: Make it a star side dish at your Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner. It’s a crowd-pleasing addition to any holiday spread, offering a welcome vegetable option that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Vegetarian Main Course Accompaniment: Serve it as a hearty side dish with vegetarian main courses like lentil loaf, mushroom Wellington, or stuffed bell peppers. It adds richness and creaminess to vegetarian meals.
• Bread Dipper: Serve warm with crusty bread, garlic bread, or toasted baguette slices for dipping. The creamy sauce is perfect for soaking up with bread.
• Potato Topping: Spoon it over baked potatoes or mashed potatoes for an extra decadent and flavorful topping. It elevates simple potatoes to a gourmet side dish.
• Eggs Benedict Upgrade: Use it as a base for Eggs Benedict instead of hollandaise sauce for a unique and flavorful brunch option.
• Pasta Sauce Enhancement: Stir leftover creamed spinach casserole into cooked pasta for a quick and creamy pasta sauce. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

Additional Tips: Elevate Your Creamed Spinach Casserole to the Next Level

Want to take your Creamed Spinach Casserole from delicious to extraordinary? Here are eight tips to enhance the flavor, texture, and overall experience:

1. Use Fresh Spinach for a Lighter Flavor: While frozen spinach is convenient, fresh spinach offers a slightly brighter and less earthy flavor. If using fresh spinach, you’ll need about 2 pounds. Sauté it in a pan with a little butter or olive oil until wilted, then drain well and chop before adding it to the sauce. Remember fresh spinach reduces significantly in volume when cooked.
2. Add a Crispy Topping for Texture Contrast: For added texture, top the casserole with a crispy breadcrumb mixture. Combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese topping before baking for a delightful crunchy contrast to the creamy spinach. You can also add chopped walnuts or pecans to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor and crunch.
3. Spice it Up with a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce. This subtle spice adds a pleasant warmth that complements the creamy spinach without being overpowering. Start with a small pinch and add more to taste.
4. Incorporate Different Cheeses for Flavor Depth: Experiment with different cheese combinations for the topping. Try using Gruyere for a nutty flavor, Fontina for extra creaminess, or a sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. A blend of cheeses can create a more complex and interesting flavor profile. Consider a combination of Gruyere and Parmesan for a classic and sophisticated taste.
5. Make it Ahead for Easy Entertaining: Creamed Spinach Casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole completely, up to the baking step, and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed, especially if baking from cold.
6. Freeze Leftovers for Future Meals: Leftover Creamed Spinach Casserole freezes well. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave until heated through. Freezing is a great way to reduce food waste and have a convenient side dish ready to go.
7. Boost the Flavor with Aromatics: Beyond onion and garlic, consider adding other aromatics to enhance the flavor. Finely diced shallots, leeks, or even a touch of white wine added to the sauce can add layers of complexity and depth. Sauté shallots or leeks with the onion for a more nuanced flavor base.
8. Add Protein for a Heartier Dish: Turn this side dish into a more substantial meal by adding protein. Cooked and crumbled bacon, pancetta, or prosciutto can be stirred into the spinach mixture for a savory boost. You can also add cooked shredded chicken or sausage for a heartier casserole that can serve as a main course.

FAQ: Your Creamed Spinach Casserole Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creamed Spinach Casserole, to help you troubleshoot and achieve perfect results:

Q1: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can! Use about 2 pounds of fresh spinach. Sauté it in a pan with a little butter or olive oil until wilted, then drain it very well and chop before adding it to the sauce. Fresh spinach will have a slightly milder flavor than frozen.

Q2: How do I prevent my creamed spinach casserole from being watery?
A: The key is to remove as much excess water as possible from the spinach. Thaw frozen spinach completely and squeeze it very thoroughly in a kitchen towel or cheesecloth. If using fresh spinach, ensure it’s well-drained after sautéing. Also, don’t overcook the spinach in the sauce, as it can release more moisture.

Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Q4: Can I freeze creamed spinach casserole?
A: Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q5: What kind of cheese is best for the topping?
A: Gruyere, mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, or a combination are all excellent choices. Gruyere offers a nutty flavor, mozzarella provides stretch, cheddar brings sharpness, and Parmesan adds saltiness. Choose cheeses that melt well and complement the creamy spinach.

Q6: Can I make this recipe lighter?
A: Yes, you can make some lighter substitutions. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also reduce the amount of cheese topping or use a lighter cheese like part-skim mozzarella. However, keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the richness and texture of the casserole.

Q7: What if I don’t have nutmeg? Can I substitute it?
A: Nutmeg adds a distinctive warmth, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute a pinch of mace or even a tiny pinch of ground cloves. If you don’t have any of these, you can omit it, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Q8: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
A: While it’s called Creamed Spinach Casserole, you can certainly add other vegetables to customize it. Sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts (canned and drained), or caramelized onions would be delicious additions. Just be mindful of the overall volume and adjust cooking times if necessary.

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