This cheesy spinach and potato casserole is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful dish that combines creamy potatoes with fresh spinach and gooey cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish to your favorite protein, this casserole is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the spinach, while the creamy cheese and tender potatoes make it irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a dish for a special occasion, this casserole will surely become a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: 55-60 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 200g fresh spinach (or 150g frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your choice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Directions
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
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Prepare the spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash and chop it. Sauté the spinach in a pan with a little bit of butter or olive oil over medium heat until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thawed and squeezed to remove excess moisture. Set the spinach aside.
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Prepare the potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into even rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). You can use a mandolin slicer for even slices or a sharp knife.
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Make the creamy sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the heavy cream and milk to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and thyme (or Italian seasoning) to taste. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
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Layer the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of spinach, and then pour over some of the creamy sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and remaining shredded cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
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Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
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Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Nutritional Facts (Per serving – makes 6 servings)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Iron: 2mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Casseroles have been a staple in home kitchens for centuries, originating in Europe and evolving to become a classic dish in American cuisine. The word “casserole” comes from the French term for “saucepan,” which reflects the cooking style: everything in one pot, often baked in the oven. Over time, casseroles became a favorite choice for feeding large families or guests because of their simplicity and versatility.
Potato casseroles, in particular, have long been enjoyed in many cultures, with different variations depending on the region. In North America, cheesy potato casseroles became widely popular, often incorporating ingredients like cheese, cream, and sometimes meat, to create a rich, comforting dish. Adding spinach to the classic potato casserole is a modern twist, providing added nutrition, flavor, and color. Spinach is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with the creamy, cheesy texture of potatoes, creating a balanced dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
The cheesy spinach and potato casserole has become a go-to dish for family gatherings, potlucks, and even holiday meals, thanks to its comforting nature and ability to please a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this cheesy spinach and potato casserole because it combines two favorite comfort foods—creamy potatoes and gooey cheese—while adding the nutritional benefits of fresh spinach. The layers of tender potatoes and rich, creamy sauce create a satisfying texture, while the cheese adds a savory depth of flavor. The spinach provides a pop of color and a healthy boost of vitamins and minerals, making this dish as wholesome as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
This cheesy spinach and potato casserole provides a balance of nutrients, making it a filling and satisfying dish. Potatoes are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, which support heart health and digestion. Spinach adds an extra dose of vitamins A, K, and folate, as well as iron, which is essential for red blood cell production. The cheese provides calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle maintenance. While the dish is indulgent, the inclusion of spinach makes it a more balanced option compared to traditional cheesy casseroles, offering both flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- As a main course: Serve the casserole as a vegetarian main dish, paired with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- As a side dish: This casserole works beautifully as a side dish to roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish.
- With a fresh salad: Pair the casserole with a refreshing salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
Tips
- Make ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Use a mandolin: If you want evenly sliced potatoes, use a mandolin slicer to ensure the potatoes cook evenly in the casserole.
- Add herbs: Enhance the flavor of the casserole by adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to the layers.
- Lower-fat version: Use reduced-fat cheese and substitute the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version of this dish.
Variations to Try
- Add bacon: For a smoky flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon to the layers of the casserole.
- Vegan version: Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based cream to make this casserole vegan-friendly.
- Add garlic: For more depth of flavor, sauté some garlic with the onions before adding them to the casserole.
Conclusion
This cheesy spinach and potato casserole is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. With its creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, and healthy spinach, it makes for a filling meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, this casserole can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, and it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Bake it up for your next dinner or special occasion, and enjoy the delicious layers of flavor in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can be used instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor. They will add a slight sweetness and a colorful twist to the casserole.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
3. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Assemble the casserole, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.