This creamy potato and spinach bake is a comforting and delicious dish that is easy to prepare. Using simple ingredients like potatoes, spinach, and mozzarella cheese, this recipe is perfect for a hearty meal that will delight your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1kg potatoes
- Water
- Salt to taste
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 40g butter
- 1 carrot
- 30g flour
- 500 ml milk
- Dried ground nutmeg to taste
- 200g spinach
- Some vegetable oil
- 150g hard mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds.
- Place the potato slices in a pot and cover with water.
- Add salt to taste and bring to a boil. Cook until just tender, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic and Carrot:
- Mince the garlic.
- Peel and grate the carrot.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated carrot, and sauté until fragrant and the carrot is softened.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook the sauce until it thickens, then season with salt and dried ground nutmeg to taste.
- Prepare the Spinach:
- In a skillet, heat a bit of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the spinach and sauté until wilted. Season with a pinch of salt if desired.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes.
- Spread half of the sautéed spinach over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the sauce over the spinach layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, spinach, and sauce.
- Grate the mozzarella cheese and sprinkle it 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:
- Serve this creamy potato and spinach bake as a main dish with a side salad.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the potatoes are cooked until just tender to avoid overcooking during baking.
- Whisk the milk gradually into the roux to prevent lumps in the sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes provide vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber.
- Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber.
- Using milk and cheese adds calcium and protein to the dish.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour to make the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy and comforting: The rich sauce and melted cheese make this bake irresistibly creamy.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the potatoes and spinach.
- Easy to prepare: Simple steps and common ingredients make this dish a breeze to put together.
Conclusion: This Creamy Potato and Spinach Bake is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any meal. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting and delicious results! 🥔🧀🌿