Spinach Casserole Recipe

I recently whipped up a Cheesy Baked Spinach Casserole that impressed me with every spoonful. I mixed tender chopped spinach with sour cream, mayo, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses along with garlic and a dash of cayenne pepper. This enticing veggie side dish brings a pleasant twist to any meal. Enjoy reading more.

I recently came across this amazing baked spinach casserole that totally surprised me with its unique twist. I mixed 10 oz of frozen chopped spinach, already thawed and drained really well, with creamy sour cream, a bit of mayonnaise and a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese to create a dish that really pops.

The addition of grated Parmesan cheese and a couple of garlic cloves minced into the mix makes it even more flavorful. A little pinch of cayenne pepper, some black pepper and salt to taste give it that subtle kick that sets it apart from your regular spinach side dish.

I even thought about sprinkling some breadcrumbs on top for that extra crunch. It’s a perfect unique holiday dish that can be served as a side or even enjoyed as a cheesy spinach dip.

Trust me, you gotta try it to believe how good it is.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this recipe for a few reasons. First, I like it cause it’s super easy to make even though there are a lot of ingredients. The mix of sour cream, mayo, and cheeses makes it so creamy and delicious every single time.

I also like that it’s really versatile – I can use it as a dip or a side dish at gatherings and it always comes out great. The crunchy breadcrumb topping, when I decide to add it, gives just the perfect contrast with the creamy spinach mixture underneath.

Another thing is that it has a bit of a spicy kick from the cayenne and garlic that makes the dish stand out without being too overwhelming. This little kick really makes it feel like a special holiday treat even on a regular night.

Finally, I appreciate how forgiving the recipe is – even if I mess up a measurement or two, it still tastes amazing and that’s something I really enjoy about it.

Ingredients

• Spinach: Provides fibre, vitamins and antioxidants while adding an earthy, vibrant touch.
• Sour Cream: Offers creaminess and tang, contributing moisture and balance to the casserole.
• Mayonnaise: Lends a rich texture and slight tanginess, helping bind ingredients nicely.
• Cheddar Cheese: Delivers a sharp, melty flavor while adding protein and satisfying richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Contributes a nutty, savory kick plus extra protein and flavor intensity.
• Garlic: Imparts a bold, zesty aroma and subtle heat that enhances overall taste.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy topping, creating contrast and a lightly toasted flavor note.
• Cayenne and Black Pepper: Introduce subtle heat and spice, balancing creamy ingredients without overpowering flavor.
• Salt: Perfectly enhances all flavors and balances tang throughout the dish.

Ingredient Quantities

• 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained well
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a medium-sized baking dish.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.

3. Add the drained chopped spinach to the bowl and mix thoroughly so everything blends well.

4. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth out the top.

5. If you like a crunchy topping, evenly sprinkle 1/2 cup breadcrumbs over the top.

6. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until the edges start to bubble.

7. Check that the casserole is heated through and the top is slightly golden.

8. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

9. Taste and adjust the salt or pepper if needed once it’s cooled a little.

10. Serve warm as a hearty side dish or as a spinach dip at your next holiday gathering. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Preheated oven set to 350°F
2. Medium-sized baking dish (graised already)
3. Large mixing bowl
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
6. Colander for draining spinach
7. Knife and cutting board for mincing garlic
8. Grater for the Parmesan cheese if it’s not already grated

FAQ

Spinach Casserole Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• For the frozen spinach, you can use fresh spinach instead. Just cook it down in a pan and squeeze out the extra water.
• If you dont have sour cream or want a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt works really well too.
• Instead of mayonnaise, try using a mix of mashed avocado and a splash of yogurt for creaminess.
• If shredded cheddar cheese isn’t available, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack or even a mix of your favorite melting cheeses.
• And if you dont have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko is a good crunchy alternative for the topping.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you squeeze out as much water as you can from the spinach before mixing it with the other ingredients. If it’s too wet, your dish might turn out kind of runny.

2. If you’re a garlic lover or just like some extra flavor, try tossing in an extra minced garlic clove or a pinch of red pepper flakes. It can really amp up the taste without overpowering the dish.

3. For that extra crunchy topping, melt a spoonful of butter and mix it with your breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top. It gives them a crispy, golden look that’s super inviting.

4. Let the dish cool for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. It not only helps the flavors settle in, but it also means you won’t burn your tongue right away when you serve it.