Cheesy Potato and Spinach Baked

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.