Creamed Spinach Casserole

Are you ready to elevate your vegetable game? Meet the creamed spinach casserole—a dish that’s as creamy and rich as it sounds. Imagine the silky texture of sautéed spinach enveloped in a luscious, homemade cream sauce, baked to perfection in a cozy casserole. It’s not just a mouthwatering dish; it’s a family crowd-pleaser that promises to make everyone come back for seconds! Fun fact: this dish has roots that trace back through generations, often serving as a staple in many Southern kitchens. The combination of earthy spinach and a decadent sauce makes this casserole not just a side, but the star of any meal. If you love dishes like our classic mac and cheese, this equally comforting option deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire.

Let’s dive into why creamed spinach casserole is so special and how easy it is to whip up for your next family gathering!

What is Creamed Spinach Casserole?

So, what’s in a name? “Creamed Spinach Casserole”—it certainly sounds posh, doesn’t it? But don’t let the fancy title fool you! This dish is delightfully straightforward and perfect for anyone wanting to present their veggie-based happiness with a touch of finesse. Why “creamed,” you ask? Because it’s all about that creamy, dreamy sauce that takes plain old spinach on a fabulous flavor adventure! And as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” so get ready to impress at your next dinner! If you’re intrigued, then grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamed Spinach Casserole

This creamed spinach casserole isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. First and foremost, the creamy sauce made from garlic, cream, and cheese envelops the spinach in warmth and flavor that feels like a hug in a dish. Secondly, making this casserole at home is a cost-effective choice, ensuring you skip the overpriced restaurant side while still impressing your guests. And let’s not ignore the special ingredients—crisp breadcrumbs sprinkled on top provide a satisfying crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy spinach below!

If you’re a fan of our beloved cauliflower gratin, you’ll find similarities in the comforting and creamy textures. But every bite of this casserole sings its own song of flavor. So why not delight your family and try it out at your next meal?

How to Make Creamed Spinach Casserole

Quick Overview

With a deliciously creamy sauce and vibrant spinach, this casserole offers an easy preparation time of about 30 minutes. You won’t believe how straightforward it is to prepare this dish, with just a handful of ingredients bringing it all together. When you serve it, expect delighted smiles from your family; there’s something remarkably satisfying about bringing such comfort food right to your table.

Key Ingredients for Creamed Spinach Casserole

• 2 pounds fresh spinach (you can use frozen, but fresh is best)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, rinse it under cold water to remove any dirt. In a large pot, add the spinach and a splash of water. Cover and cook over medium heat until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and chop the spinach, squeezing out excess moisture.
2. Make the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine, cooking for an additional minute. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach with the creamy sauce. Ensure the spinach is well-coated.
4. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the spinach mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly across the top for a crunchy finish.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

What to Serve Creamed Spinach Casserole With

This creamed spinach casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or even a hearty pasta for a comforting meal. For added variety and balance, complement it with a fresh side salad or a baked potato to soak up all those creamy flavors. Pair with a nice white wine for the adults or a refreshing lemonade for the kids.

Top Tips for Perfecting Creamed Spinach Casserole

1. Fresh vs. Frozen: While fresh spinach is recommended for the best flavor and texture, frozen spinach can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well!
2. Make it Vegetarian: Substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based cream works wonderfully, keeping this dish vegetarian-friendly.
3. Avoid Sogginess: To avoid a watery casserole, always drain the spinach thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
4. Boost the Flavor: Adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper will elevate the flavor profile for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which we doubt you will!), store the creamed spinach casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It should remain fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in short intervals until heated thoroughly.

Now that you’re armed with everything you need to create this delightful creamed spinach casserole, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Your family will thank you for bringing this comfort food classic to the table, and you’ll love how easy—and delicious—it is. Enjoy!

Creamed Spinach Casserole

A creamy and rich dish made with sautéed spinach enveloped in a homemade cream sauce, baked to perfection. This family crowd-pleaser is sure to make everyone come back for seconds.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh spinach You can use frozen, but fresh is best.
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• to taste Salt and pepper
• ½ cup breadcrumbs For topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. If using fresh spinach, rinse it under cold water to remove any dirt. In a large pot, add the spinach and a splash of water. Cover and cook over medium heat until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and chop the spinach, squeezing out excess moisture.

Sauce Preparation

1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine, cooking for an additional minute.
2. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Bake

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach with the creamy sauce. Ensure the spinach is well-coated.
2. Pour the spinach mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly across the top for a crunchy finish.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
4. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use fresh spinach and avoid sogginess by thoroughly draining the spinach. A sprinkle of nutmeg or cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile.