Whether you’re looking to add more greens to your diet or simply want a comforting and nutritious side dish for your next family dinner, this Baked Spinach Casserole is the perfect recipe to try. Packed with flavor, this dish combines the freshness of spinach with the creaminess of cheese and the warmth of savory seasonings. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve alongside a variety of main courses, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Baked Spinach Casserole
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh spinach, washed and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Add the cooked spinach mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
8. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
This Baked Spinach Casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and the flavors are at their peak. Serve it as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as part of a vegetarian spread. The creamy texture and rich flavors of this casserole will impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds.
Experiment with different types of cheese or add in some cooked and crumbled bacon for extra flavor variations. This recipe is also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters or to introduce spinach to those who may not be its biggest fans. Feel free to make this casserole your own by customizing the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
With its simple preparation and delicious results, this Baked Spinach Casserole is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their side dish game with a healthy and satisfying option. Include it in your weekly meal rotation or save it for special occasions – either way, this casserole is bound to become a household favorite.
