This Sweet Potato Casserole with Spinach and Cheese is a delightful and nutritious dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavors of spinach and the creaminess of cheese. Ideal for any meal, this casserole can be a stunning centerpiece for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a comforting weeknight dinner. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for you and your family. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can create a wholesome dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. Let’s get started!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 3 large sweet potatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite cheese)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk (optional)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cubed sweet potatoes. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Remove from heat.
4. Mash the Sweet Potatoes
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes using a potato masher or fork until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add the optional 1/2 cup of milk while mashing.
5. Combine Ingredients
- Add the sautéed spinach and onion mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir in the two eggs and half of the shredded cheese, mixing until well combined.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
7. Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also use different cheese varieties based on your preference.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready to serve, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Texture Preference: If you enjoy a bit of texture, leave some chunks in the sweet potato mash instead of mashing until completely smooth.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
This casserole is a great source of vitamins A and C from the sweet potatoes and spinach, along with protein and calcium from the cheese and eggs.
FAQs
- Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
- While you can use canned sweet potatoes, they are often softer and may result in a different texture. If using canned, drain them well and reduce the mashing time.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
- Absolutely! This casserole keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Yes! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based cheese option. You can also omit the milk or use a plant-based alternative.
- What can I serve with this casserole?
- This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish with grilled meats.
- How can I add more flavor?
- Consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika for an extra kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Spinach and Cheese is not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your meal repertoire. With its blend of flavors and textures, it’s bound to become a favorite for both family dinners and festive occasions. Easy to prepare and customizable, this casserole will please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s a comforting, wholesome meal that you can feel good about serving. Enjoy this delicious and healthy recipe that will keep everyone coming back for more!