This spinach and cheese casserole is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the wholesome flavors of spinach. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a tasty lunch, and the versatility of this recipe lets you use fresh or frozen spinach, making it convenient for any time of the year. The golden, cheesy topping and creamy interior are sure to make this a family favorite!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 30 grams (2 tablespoons) melted butter
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm water
- 250-300 grams (8.8-10.6 ounces) fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 250 grams (8.8 ounces) cream cheese
- Salt to taste
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) butter
- 2 tablespoons (16 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk
- Nutmeg to taste
- 60 grams (1/2 cup) pizza mozzarella, shredded
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
- If using fresh spinach, blanch it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until wilted, then drain and squeeze out excess water. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thawed and well-drained.
- Roughly chop the spinach and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the onions and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking until it thickens into a smooth sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.
4. Incorporate the Cream Cheese:
- Stir the cream cheese into the sauce until melted and fully combined. The mixture should be creamy and smooth.
- Add the prepared spinach to the cream cheese sauce and mix thoroughly, ensuring the spinach is evenly coated.
5. Prepare the Casserole Batter:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1/2 cup of warm water. Season with a little salt.
- This batter will serve as the base of your casserole.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Grease a baking dish (approximately 9×9 inches) with butter.
- Pour the prepared egg and flour batter into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Layer the spinach and cream cheese mixture over the batter.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese for that golden, bubbly finish.
7. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is set.
8. Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Slice into portions and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and nutritious spinach casserole!
Tips:
- If using frozen spinach, make sure to thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
This Spinach and Cheese Casserole is the perfect dish for when you’re craving something comforting yet packed with nutrients. Enjoy!
