Description
Hey friends! Some days call for a big, warm, cheesy hug from your dinner plate—and this Creamy Baked Spinach Casserole is exactly that. Tender spinach enveloped in a rich, tangy cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbly, it’s perfect as a cozy weeknight side, a holiday table showstopper, or a satisfying vegetarian main. Easy, comforting, and totally forgiving, this casserole is about to become your new kitchen favorite.
Ingredients
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2 tbsp butter
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 large eggs
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1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta
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½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar (reserve ½ cup for topping)
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, enhances cheesy notes)
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½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
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16 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained well
Instructions
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Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 2-quart baking dish. -
Sauté Aromatics
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 4–5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. -
Mix Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk eggs, then add cottage cheese (or ricotta), sour cream (or yogurt), Parmesan, 1 cup mozzarella, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and thyme. Mix until smooth. -
Combine with Spinach
Add sautéed onion and garlic, then well-drained spinach. Mix thoroughly, breaking up any clumps of spinach. -
Assemble & Bake
Transfer mixture to prepared dish. Smooth top and sprinkle reserved ½ cup mozzarella evenly. Bake 30–35 minutes until set and golden. -
Rest & Serve
Let casserole sit 10 minutes before slicing. Serve as a side with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main with salad and crusty bread.
Notes
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Drain Spinach Well: Excess water = watery casserole. Wring thoroughly in a clean towel.
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Make Ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 minutes to bake time if chilled.
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Fresh Spinach Option: Use ~20 oz fresh spinach, sauté until wilted, drain, and squeeze out moisture.
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Cheese Swap: In a pinch, use softened cream cheese instead of cottage or ricotta; texture will be denser.
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Flavor Boost: Add cooked bacon, diced ham, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for variety.
Nutrition
- Calories: 210 Cal Per Serving
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 14g