A hearty and creamy gratin combining tender potatoes, nutritious spinach, and a mix of cheeses. Topped with golden breadcrumbs, this dish is perfect as a comforting main or satisfying side.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 300 g (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 500 g (1 lb) potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tbsp)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 50 g (½ cup) + 20 g (2 tbsp) grated Parmesan cheese
- 150 ml (⅔ cup) water
- 70 g (½ cup) Scamorza cheese, shredded or diced
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- 150 g (1 cup) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Breadcrumbs for topping
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Mix in fresh parsley and 50 g of grated Parmesan. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Slice the potatoes thinly (about ⅛-inch thick) for even cooking.
- In a pot, boil the sliced potatoes in salted water for 5 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Gratin
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Layer half of the potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the spinach mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle with Scamorza cheese and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, spinach mixture, and cheeses.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 20 g grated Parmesan.
- Add the beaten egg and 150 ml water to the mixture, stirring until combined.
Step 5: Bake the Gratin
- Pour the breadcrumb mixture over the assembled gratin, spreading evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling on top.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the gratin cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main course with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal.
- Enjoy as a flavorful vegetarian side dish.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh spinach if available, but cook and drain it thoroughly before using.
- Slice the potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
- For extra crunch, broil the gratin for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Potatoes: A good source of fiber and potassium.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein for bone health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free if gluten-free breadcrumbs are used
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines creamy, cheesy flavors with nutritious ingredients.
- Easy to prepare with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions.
- A versatile dish that works as a main or side.
Conclusion
This Spinach and Potato Gratin is a rich, comforting dish that’s sure to please. Packed with layers of cheesy goodness and tender potatoes, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh spinach? Yes, cook and drain fresh spinach before using in the recipe.
- What is Scamorza cheese? It’s a semi-soft Italian cheese similar to mozzarella; substitute with mozzarella if unavailable.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the gratin and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes work well and add a touch of sweetness.
- How do I make this vegan? Substitute the cheeses and egg with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free milk.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, freeze portions in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- How do I prevent the gratin from being watery? Ensure spinach is well-drained and don’t overcook the potatoes before assembling.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, zucchini or mushrooms make great additions.
- What breadcrumbs are best? Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier topping, but any type will work.
- How do I know when it’s done? The top should be golden brown, and the gratin should be bubbling at the edges.
Enjoy this cheesy, hearty gratin for any meal!