Excellent Spinach
A creamy, cheesy spinach dish perfect as a side or dip, combining tender spinach with savory onion flavor, topped with melted cheddar and optional bread crumbs for added crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spinach until heated through; drain well.
- Mix the cooked spinach with the onion soup mix and sour cream until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Optional: add bread crumbs over the cheese and drizzle with 2 to 3 tablespoons melted butter.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also add garlic powder or sautéed garlic for extra flavor. If you prefer a different cheese, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack. For added crunch, mix in some toasted walnuts or omit the bread crumbs for a lighter dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this excellent spinach dish as a side alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a complete vegetarian meal, consider serving it with a side of quinoa or brown rice. It also complements the flavors of American recipes like meatloaf or baked ham.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Excellent Spinach contains roughly 96 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.
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, which should be washed, chopped, and cooked down until wilted before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will give a fresher flavor and texture to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the spinach mixture before baking. You can also mix in a bit of hot sauce or serve it with a spicy dipping sauce alongside for those who enjoy extra heat.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the dish, top it with cheese, and bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
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).