Family Spinach
Family Spinach is a creamy, savory side dish combining tender spinach with mushroom soup and toasted sesame seeds, perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped spinach until just tender in boiling salted water.
- Drain the spinach very thoroughly.
- Mix the drained spinach with the cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, garlic salt, toasted sesame seeds, and half of the nuts.
- Turn the mixture into a buttered 1-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining nuts on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of this dish, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or some grated parmesan cheese to the mixture. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. To cut down on sodium, use low-sodium soup and adjust the salt accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This Family Spinach casserole pairs beautifully with a side of roasted chicken or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice. It also makes a great potluck dish, as it can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Family Spinach contains roughly 128 calories, with 4g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 512mg per serving (22% 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! Just sauté about 12 ounces of fresh spinach in a little olive oil until wilted, then chop it before mixing it with the soup and other ingredients. This will add a vibrant flavor and texture to the dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Family Spinach casserole gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or prepare a homemade version using gluten-free flour. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).