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Creamed Spinach Casserole Recipe


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4.3 from 15 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This creamy spinach casserole is a rich and comforting side dish featuring sautéed onions and garlic blended with cream cheeses, Parmesan, and cheddar, baked to golden perfection with a crunchy buttery cracker topping. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it combines the smooth textures of cream cheese and cottage cheese with the vibrant flavor of spinach and nutmeg-spiced warmth.


Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (12 oz.) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

Dairy & Cheese

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 oz plain cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Seasonings & Others

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 16 buttery crackers, crushed


Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside for later.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring regularly, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5 to 6 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add cheeses and season: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cream cheese, cottage cheese, kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and blend smoothly into the mixture, ensuring an even, creamy texture.
  4. Incorporate spinach and Parmesan: Stir in the well-drained chopped spinach along with half of the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is thoroughly combined. Then pour in the heavy cream and mix until fully integrated.
  5. Assemble casserole: Transfer this creamy spinach mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the surface, followed by an even layer of the crushed buttery crackers for a crunchy topping.
  6. Bake and serve: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the filling is hot. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Be sure to squeeze excess moisture out of the thawed spinach to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
  • Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, or substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.
  • Crushed crackers add a nice crunch, but panko breadcrumbs or crushed pita chips can also be used as alternatives.
  • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to help it set for easier portioning.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated; just add extra bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American