This creamed spinach casserole is a classic side dish that brings rich flavor and smooth texture to your table. Whether using fresh spinach or frozen spinach, this easy recipe combines heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese for a cheesy sauce that pairs perfectly with any main course.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this comforting side dish is a steakhouse favorite. With simple ingredients like butter, garlic, and onion, it’s a delightful addition to your meal.
Overview of Creamy Spinach Casserole
This creamy spinach casserole is a delightful side dish that showcases the rich flavor of creamed spinach.
Whether you choose fresh spinach or opt for frozen, this recipe combines heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese to create a cheesy sauce that complements any main course beautifully.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this comforting dish is reminiscent of steakhouse favorites. With simple ingredients like butter, garlic, and onion, it brings a smooth texture and satisfying taste to your table, making it a must-try for any occasion.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The key to this creamy spinach casserole lies in its combination of ingredients.
Fresh spinach or frozen spinach serves as the base, while a rich cream sauce made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan elevates the dish.
Onion or shallot adds depth, and minced garlic infuses the casserole with aromatic flavor. A sprinkle of flour helps thicken the sauce, while milk and a pinch of nutmeg enhance the overall taste. Topping it off with mozzarella cheese creates a golden brown crust that is irresistible.
Preparation Steps
To prepare this dish, start by prepping the spinach. If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and remove any tough stems. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion or shallot until translucent.
Next, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then, incorporate the spinach, cooking until it wilts. For frozen spinach, simply heat it through, ensuring to drain any excess liquid and squeeze it dry if necessary.
Creating the Cream Sauce
Once the spinach is ready, it’s time to make the cream sauce. Sprinkle flour over the spinach mixture and stir constantly for about a minute. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until the sauce thickens. This creamy mixture will be the heart of your casserole, providing a rich and comforting flavor.
Baking to Perfection
After the sauce has thickened, stir in mozzarella cheese until it melts and combines smoothly. Transfer the creamy spinach mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture and flavor that makes this casserole so appealing.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This creamy spinach casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile side option.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or preparing a simple weeknight meal, this comforting side dish is sure to impress. Enjoy it warm, and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures that it brings to your table.
Easy Creamed Spinach Casserole
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Creamed Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 6 Servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy spinach casserole features wilted spinach mixed with a rich cream sauce made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden brown, making it a perfect side for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach or 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Prep the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash and remove tough stems. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onion or shallot. Sauté until translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook Spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, add it directly and cook until heated through. Drain excess liquid and squeeze dry if necessary.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the spinach mixture and stir constantly for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer. Stir in the cream cheese, grated Parmesan, and season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the creamy spinach mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve Warm: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting side dish with your favorite main course.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, French, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 8g
This recipe is part of my 35 Delicious Easter Side Dishes. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!
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