If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a burst of cheesy goodness all in one, this Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe will win your heart (and taste buds) every time. It’s wonderfully simple yet packed full of flavors that dance together—from tender spinach and savory onions to rich cheeses and a hint of nutmeg. Whether you’re serving it as a satisfying side or a meatless main, this casserole feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component is there for a reason, contributing perfectly to the dish’s creamy texture, vibrant flavor, and that lovely golden top you’ll find irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and delicate crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a wonderful aromatic base flavor.
- 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained: The star leafy green, packed with nutrients and flavor.
- 4 large eggs: Bind everything together, giving the casserole its sturdy yet tender texture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and smooths the mixture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tangy richness for depth of flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that classic cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Contributes a sharp, nutty punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A little surprise note that lifts the spinach flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Creates a delightfully crispy, golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using breadcrumbs): Helps the breadcrumbs turn perfectly golden and crunchy.
How to Make Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup easier. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook for around 4 to 5 minutes until it’s softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for one more minute to release its wonderful aroma. Then, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside—your flavor base is ready.
Step 2: Mix the casserole ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and a subtle hint of ground nutmeg. This mixture will create a creamy, luscious binding for the casserole. Next, stir in your cooked onions and garlic, making sure they’re well distributed. Fold gently but thoroughly in the drained spinach along with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. The combination of cheeses will add irresistible melty and savory notes that complement the spinach perfectly.
Step 3: Assemble and bake
Pour your spinach and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula so it bakes evenly. If you’re using breadcrumbs, mix them with olive oil until they’re coated, then sprinkle that evenly over the surface to create a crispy, golden topping. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You want the casserole to be set in the center and boast a gorgeous golden-brown top that invites you to dig in. Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes—this rest time helps everything settle and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the casserole is flavorful on its own, a fresh garnish can take it to the next level. Try sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or a few leaves of basil on top. A light dusting of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil will add visual appeal and a little extra flavor flourish. These little touches make serving this dish feel special and bright.
Side Dishes
This Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a hearty meal, serve alongside roasted chicken or pan-seared fish. If you’re aiming for a lighter touch, a crisp green salad or some roasted root vegetables bring a nice balance of textures and flavors. In a vegetarian spread, it works wonderfully with garlic bread or a warm bowl of tomato soup.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or enjoy a fancier presentation, try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for personal servings. This adds a charming touch and makes it easy to portion. You can also serve it as a filling for savory crepes or stuffed inside a toasted baguette slice for a fun appetizer twist. The creamy, cheesy spinach filling adapts easily to all sorts of serving ideas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When you have leftovers of this delightful casserole, simply cover the dish or transfer portions into airtight containers and refrigerate. The casserole keeps well for up to 3 days while maintaining its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
This Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or busy nights. To freeze, cool the casserole completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or transfer individual portions into freezer-safe containers. It stays delicious for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through, or microwave single servings, stirring halfway to keep it creamy and prevent dryness. A quick sprinkle of additional cheese or a few breadcrumbs on top before reheating can refresh that lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach works wonderfully as long as you cook it down first and remove excess moisture. Using fresh spinach will give a brighter green color and a slightly different texture, but the casserole will still taste amazing.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
The basic casserole is gluten-free, but keep in mind that the optional breadcrumb topping contains gluten. To keep it gluten-free, simply skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free alternatives.
Can I add other cheeses to this recipe?
Definitely! While mozzarella and Parmesan create the classic flavor combo, adding cheeses like feta, cheddar, or Gruyère can bring extra depth and a unique twist to your casserole.
How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
The key is draining the spinach very well to remove as much water as possible. After thawing frozen spinach, squeeze it tightly in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before mixing it in to avoid a soggy dish.
Can this be made vegan?
While this recipe relies on dairy and eggs for the texture and flavor, you can experiment with vegan substitutes such as plant-based cheeses, non-dairy milk, and egg replacers. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but it’s possible to create a delicious vegan version!
Final Thoughts
This Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again, whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or a simple yet satisfying side. With its creamy, cheesy layers and comforting warmth, it truly feels like a delicious hug from the inside out. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your own kitchen!
Print
Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spinach and Cheese Casserole is a deliciously creamy and cheesy baked side dish featuring tender spinach blended with eggs, milk, and a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s seasoned with garlic, onions, nutmeg, and a hint of black pepper, topped with optional crispy breadcrumbs for a golden finish. Perfect for an easy, comforting vegetarian meal or side.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma, then remove from heat.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg until thoroughly combined.
- Combine Spinach and Cheese: Stir the sautéed onion and garlic into the egg mixture. Gently fold in the well-drained spinach along with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the spinach and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): If using, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to add a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Bake until the casserole is set in the center and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. This rest time helps it set and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent a watery casserole.
- For added flavor, try mixing in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for convenience.
