This Cheesy Potato and Spinach Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender potatoes, creamy sauce, sautéed spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect as a hearty side or a vegetarian main, this bake is full of flavor and nutrition, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 1 kg (2.2 lbs), peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- Water: Enough to cover potatoes for boiling
- Salt: To taste
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Butter: 40 g (1.4 oz)
- Carrot: 1 medium, peeled and grated
- Flour: 30 g (1/4 cup)
- Milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Dried ground nutmeg: To taste
- Spinach: 200 g (7 oz)
- Vegetable oil: For sautéing
- Hard mozzarella cheese: 150 g (5.3 oz), grated
Directions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and slice the potatoes thinly.
- Place the slices in a pot, cover with water, and add salt to taste. Bring to a boil and cook until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic and Carrot:
- Mince the garlic and grate the carrot.
Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated carrot, and sauté until fragrant and the carrot softens.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and a pinch of dried ground nutmeg to taste.
Prepare the Spinach:
- Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the spinach and sauté until wilted. Season lightly with salt, if desired.
Assemble the Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).
- Grease a baking dish.
- Layer half of the potato slices in the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half of the sautéed spinach over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the sauce over the spinach.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, spinach, and sauce.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
- Let the bake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve as a side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled vegetables.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Cooking Tips
- Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook consistently.
- For extra flavor, add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
- Use a mix of cheeses, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, for a richer topping.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Provide energy-boosting carbohydrates and potassium.
- Spinach: Rich in iron, calcium, and antioxidants.
- Milk: Adds calcium and protein to the dish.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting flour with gluten-free flour.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (355°F) or microwave until warm.
- Not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to prepare with wholesome ingredients.
- A comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Ideal as a hearty side dish or vegetarian main course.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato and Spinach Bake is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both nutritious and delicious. The creamy layers of potatoes, spinach, and cheese make it a perfect comfort food for any season. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, savory flavors with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness and pair well with the creamy sauce. - What can I substitute for spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or even frozen spinach works as a substitute. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Use plant-based butter, milk, and vegan cheese for a vegan version. - How can I add more protein to this dish?
Add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or tofu layers for additional protein. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the bake and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving. - What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
Parmesan, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses work great as alternatives. - How do I prevent the sauce from becoming lumpy?
Gradually whisk the milk into the roux to create a smooth sauce. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended due to changes in potato texture. - How do I ensure the top is golden and bubbly?
Use the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking for a golden crust. - What herbs can I use for garnishing?
Fresh parsley, dill, or chives add a fresh touch to the dish.