Cream Cheese Spinach Casserole
A creamy spinach casserole with melted cheese and crunchy bread crumbs, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped spinach and drain well.
- Add cream cheese, chopped onion, and half a stick of melted butter to the spinach and mix.
- Transfer the mixture into a small baking dish.
- Combine bread crumbs with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Neufchâtel cheese as a lighter alternative to cream cheese. If you don't have Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs, crushed crackers or seasoned panko can work well too. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or using sautéed garlic in place of chopped onion can enhance the flavor. Be sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid a watery casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Cream Cheese Spinach Casserole makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. Pair it with a fresh salad, like Lillie Mae Whittaker'S Salad Dressing for a refreshing contrast. It can also serve as a hearty vegetarian main dish, perfect alongside quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Spinach Casserole contains roughly 300 calories, with 8g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté it in a pan until wilted, then drain and chop before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will give a fresher taste to your casserole.
What can I add to make it more flavorful?
Consider adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a kick, or incorporate grated cheese like Parmesan or cheddar for added richness. Fresh herbs such as dill or parsley can also enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
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).