Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Casserole
A creamy, cheesy spinach and mushroom casserole with tender grits, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings. Rich flavors and hearty texture shine through.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the frozen chopped spinach according to package instructions and drain the liquid into a measuring cup.
- Reserve the cooked spinach for later use.
- Add enough water to the spinach liquid to make 4 cups total.
- Place the liquid and salt in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the grits slowly, then cover, reduce heat, and cook until the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally, following the grits package directions.
- Stir in the beaten egg, cream of mushroom soup, grated Cheddar cheese, and cooked spinach.
- Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Top with buttered bread or cracker crumbs and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the grits. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor profile. If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 10 ounces, sauté it lightly before adding to the mixture. This Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy American recipes with a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own or served alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. Pair it with roasted vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. It also complements main dishes like grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side. For a delightful dessert, consider serving with Uncle Barb'S Brownies to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be careful not to overcook as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Casserole contains roughly 251 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1434mg per serving (62% 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?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! You'll need about 10 ounces. Sauté it in a little olive oil until wilted before adding it to the casserole mixture. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute regular grits with gluten-free grits or polenta. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well, or you can make a homemade version using gluten-free ingredients.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This casserole is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure you use vegetable broth if you choose to replace the water with broth. Additionally, check that your cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian, or make your own using mushrooms, cream, and vegetable broth.
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).