Spinach Casserole

This easy Spinach Casserole is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this dish is gluten-free, low in carbs, and vegetarian-friendly. Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy its creamy texture and rich taste. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it a great addition to your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious casserole ready for the oven.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish; it pairs well with many meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: Full of protein from cottage cheese and eggs while being low in carbs.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make extra and freeze portions for an easy meal on busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, this dish appeals to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools can make all the difference in your kitchen experience. Below are essential tools you’ll need to prepare this Spinach Casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch square casserole dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch square casserole dish: The perfect size for even cooking of your Spinach Casserole.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk or fork: Essential for thoroughly beating the eggs and mixing the ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Spinach Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

For the Casserole

• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups cottage cheese
• 10 ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and very well drained
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta
• 1/3 cup diced sweet onion
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• dash of nutmeg

How to Make Spinach Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This step ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dish

Grease a 1 & 1/2-quart (9-inch square) casserole dish with a little butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking when serving.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients:
* Add the beaten eggs.
* Stir in cottage cheese, thawed spinach, crumbled feta, diced onion, melted butter, Parmesan, black pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg.
Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into your greased casserole dish. Bake uncovered for about 40–45 minutes. You want it to be set but slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once done baking, let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious Spinach Casserole!

How to Serve Spinach Casserole

Spinach Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether serving it as a main course or a side, these suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the casserole.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken adds protein to your meal and balances the creamy texture of the Spinach Casserole.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring a delightful crunch and enhance the overall flavor profile of your dinner.

Enjoy with Quinoa

• Fluffy quinoa makes for a healthy grain option that pairs well with the casserole’s creaminess.

Top with Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices add freshness and richness, making each bite even more satisfying.

How to Perfect Spinach Casserole

To achieve the best Spinach Casserole, follow these helpful tips for an irresistible dish.

• Use fresh spinach: If possible, opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter flavor. Just be sure to thoroughly wash and dry it before use.

• Drain spinach well: Excess moisture can make your casserole soggy. Ensure the spinach is well-drained before mixing it with other ingredients.

• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to substitute or add different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for varied textures and flavors.

• Add extra spices: Customize your dish by incorporating herbs like dill or oregano. This will enhance the taste profile of your Spinach Casserole.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Casserole

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair beautifully with Spinach Casserole.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up servings of casserole.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Golden-brown roasted potatoes provide a hearty complement to the creamy dish.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds brightness and a slight crunch.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors while keeping meals light.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings a crisp contrast to the soft texture of the casserole.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies can make your plate visually appealing.
7. Cucumber Salad: Cool cucumber salad provides hydration and freshness, balancing out richer dishes.
8. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a fun twist on pasta while keeping it healthy and low carb.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Spinach Casserole can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip draining spinach: Not draining the spinach well can lead to a watery casserole. Always ensure it’s thoroughly squeezed to remove excess moisture.
• Boldly overlook ingredient room temperature: Using cold eggs or cottage cheese can affect the texture. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Boldly ignore baking time: Each oven is different, and ignoring the suggested baking time can result in undercooked or burnt edges. Keep an eye on it and adjust as necessary.
• Boldly forget to grease the dish: Skipping this step might cause sticking, making serving difficult. Always grease your casserole dish generously to ensure easy removal.
• Boldly miss adding spices: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to add spices like nutmeg or pepper for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Spinach Casserole

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Spinach Casserole

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking often.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spinach Casserole.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh spinach can be used; just cook it down until wilted and drain well before adding it to the mixture.

How do I customize my Spinach Casserole?

You can add ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or different cheeses for added flavor and texture.

Is Spinach Casserole healthy?

Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and packed with protein from the eggs and cottage cheese.

How long does it take to prepare Spinach Casserole?

The total time is about 55 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and cheeses. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a main course!