Cheese Topped Spinach
Creamy spinach topped with artichokes and Parmesan, baked to perfection; a rich, cheesy side perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place artichokes in a greased 1-quart baking pan.
- Drain the thawed spinach and spread it over the artichokes.
- Blend the softened cream cheese with butter, then mix in the milk.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the spinach.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the cream cheese mixture. For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and use fresh spinach instead of frozen. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for varied taste. This dish is versatile, and you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Topped Spinach pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread to balance its richness. It can serve as a delicious appetizer or a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it with a side of quinoa or brown rice to add texture and protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Topped Spinach contains roughly 578 calories, with 12g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 599mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. You'll need about 1 pound, and it should be cooked and drained well before layering over the artichokes. Fresh spinach will provide a slightly different texture but will still be delicious in this dish.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I want a dairy-free option?
For a dairy-free alternative, consider using a plant-based cream cheese or a blend of silken tofu and nutritional yeast to mimic the creaminess. Additionally, adding a bit of lemon juice can help balance the flavors and provide a tangy taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the cream cheese mixture. You could also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before baking, or serve it with a side of spicy salsa to complement the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).