Baked Spinach Casserole

In the world of hearty and comforting side dishes, casseroles hold a special place. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and beloved by many for their rich flavors and satisfying textures. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that combines the creaminess of cheese with the earthiness of spinach to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious: Baked Spinach Casserole.

This casserole is perfect for those evenings when you crave something warm and comforting, yet don’t want to stray too far from your nutrition goals. Spinach, the star of this dish, is not only flavorful but packed with vitamins and minerals. When combined with the creamy textures of cheese and a hint of spice, it creates a dish that’s bound to be a hit at any table.

Ingredients:

To start, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick of heat)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions:

Preparing this dish is straightforward and requires about 40-45 minutes from start to finish, including both prep and cooking time. Here’s how:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray to ensure easy serving later on.
2. Sauté the Base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become softened and fragrant, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This forms the flavorful base of your casserole.
3. Cook the Spinach: Incorporate the thawed and drained spinach into the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. The spinach should be well integrated with the onion and garlic.
4. Mix the Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Combine: Add the cooked spinach mixture to the bowl with the cheese mixture. Stir until the spinach is evenly coated with the creamy cheese blend.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even cooking. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top now for a crunchy finish.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for a hot, bubbly center and a golden-brown top.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions:

This Baked Spinach Casserole can serve 6-8 people, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from simple grilled chicken to more elaborate roasts. Whether it’s a part of your weeknight meal rotation or a special occasion side dish, it promises to be a comforting and satisfying addition to your table.

Remember, while this recipe includes optional ingredients like red pepper flakes and breadcrumbs, feel free to customize it to your taste preferences. The essence of a great casserole lies in its adaptability, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

As you gather around the table with your loved ones, let this Baked Spinach Casserole be a reminder of the simple joys of cooking and sharing a meal. Enjoy!

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