Description
This Spinach and Cheese Casserole is a creamy, savory baked dish combining tender spinach with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Enhanced with aromatic garlic and onions, it makes a comforting side or a light main course, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
Seasonings and Fats
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook Spinach: If using fresh spinach, add it to the skillet and cook until wilted, which takes about 3-4 minutes. For frozen spinach, ensure it is fully thawed and well-drained before adding to the bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sour cream, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Prepare for Baking: Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the spinach and cheese mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Bake until the casserole is fully set and the top is lightly golden and slightly bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it to set further and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen spinach with fresh spinach, but make sure to cook and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- Nutmeg is optional but adds a warm, subtle flavor that complements the cheese and spinach.
- For a richer dish, use butter instead of olive oil for sautéing.
- Serve warm as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
