Creamed Spinach Casserole

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Creamed Spinach Casserole, a wholesome dish that combines the goodness of spinach with creamy, cheesy goodness.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a side dish for a special gathering, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s a delicious way to sneak in some extra greens and satisfy your cravings for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Large skillet or frying pan
2. Mixing bowl
3. Casserole dish
4. Cooking spray or butter for greasing
5. Aluminum foil

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 20 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamed Spinach Mixture: In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and ground nutmeg, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the cream sauce from the heat and set aside.
4. Cook the Spinach: In the same skillet or frying pan, add the chopped spinach in batches, allowing it to wilt down before adding more. Cook the spinach until it’s completely wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat.
5. Combine Spinach and Cream Sauce: Transfer the cooked spinach to a mixing bowl and pour the prepared cream sauce over the top. Stir until the spinach is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the creamed spinach mixture to the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and if desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer for added crunch.
7. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the creamed spinach casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy it as a comforting main course.

This Creamed Spinach Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of spinach in a creamy and comforting dish. Whether served alongside your favorite protein or enjoyed on its own, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. So gather around the table and savor the goodness of this nutritious and delicious casserole!