This Potato and Spinach Casserole with Cheese is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory spinach, and melty cheese creates a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s sure to be a hit. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this casserole is a delicious addition to your dinner table.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Time:
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 35 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
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Potatoes: 4 large (about 800 g), peeled and diced
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Fresh spinach: 3 cups, chopped (about 150 g)
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Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
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Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
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Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
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Butter: 50 g (¼ cup)
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Milk: 150 ml (⅔ cup)
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Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
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Pepper: ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
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Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon (optional)
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Parmesan cheese: 60 g (2 oz), grated
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Mozzarella cheese: 100 g (1 cup), shredded
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Breadcrumbs: 2 tablespoons
Directions:
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Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by boiling the diced potatoes in salted water for 12-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Once they are cooked, drain the water and mash the potatoes with 50 g of butter, 150 ml of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg (optional) until smooth. Set the mashed potatoes aside. -
Cook the Spinach:
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and set aside. -
Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the cooked spinach mixture and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until fully combined. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. -
Top the Casserole:
Sprinkle the top of the casserole with the remaining Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and breadcrumbs. This will create a delicious, crispy topping once baked. -
Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. -
Serve:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
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Calories: 250 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 30 g
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Protein: 7 g
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Fat: 14 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Sodium: 650 mg
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Cholesterol: 25 mg
Origins and Popularity:
This casserole is a modern comfort food that blends the classic flavors of mashed potatoes and spinach, two ingredients commonly found in many cuisines around the world. The addition of cheese elevates the dish, giving it a rich, creamy texture. Casseroles like this one are especially popular in American and European kitchens, often served during family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals.
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Simple Ingredients: The ingredients are straightforward and can be found in most kitchens.
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Flavorful and Filling: The combination of tender potatoes, earthy spinach, and melty cheese is both satisfying and delicious.
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Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the cheese for a different flavor.
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Comfort Food: This casserole is the perfect dish to serve when you’re craving something hearty and comforting.
Health Benefits:
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Potatoes: A good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, potatoes provide essential nutrients while being a low-calorie comfort food.
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Spinach: Rich in iron, calcium, and antioxidants, spinach is great for bone health, improving digestion, and boosting overall immunity.
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Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese: Both cheeses are rich in calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, and provide protein to help build muscle and repair tissues.
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Nutmeg: This spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve digestion and relieve pain.
Serving Suggestions:
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With a Protein: Serve the casserole with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or a piece of salmon to complete your meal.
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Fresh Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad or a tangy tomato salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
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Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic rolls for a more filling meal.
Cooking Tips:
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the day before and refrigerate it. Just bake it for 25-30 minutes when you’re ready to serve.
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Customize the Cheese: Feel free to swap out the mozzarella and Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta.
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Add More Veggies: Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
Variations to Try:
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Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese for a vegan-friendly version of this dish.
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Add Protein: For extra protein, add cooked chicken, ground beef, or beans into the casserole mixture.
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Spicy Twist: Add some chili flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Conclusion:
This Potato and Spinach Casserole with Cheese is an easy-to-make, versatile dish that combines the best of both worlds: comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect recipe to make for any occasion.
FAQ Section:
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Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using it in the recipe. -
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just bake it for 25-30 minutes when you’re ready to serve. -
Can I substitute other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you like. Cheddar, gouda, or even feta would be delicious alternatives. -
Can I make this casserole without cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cheese for a lighter version of the casserole, or you can use a dairy-free cheese substitute. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. -
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes, adding cooked chicken, turkey, or ground beef would be a great way to make this a more hearty meal. -
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just assemble it, bake it, and then let it cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator and bake again. -
Can I use a different type of potato?
While russet potatoes work best for mashing, you can experiment with other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. -
What can I serve this casserole with?
It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a protein like grilled chicken or steak. -
Is this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
This Potato and Spinach Casserole with Cheese is a dish everyone will love, offering a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the richness of spinach and potatoes. It’s simple to make, easy to adapt, and can be served as a main course or a delicious side dish!