Herbed Spinach Casserole
A flavorful herbed spinach casserole combining spinach, rice, cheese, and herbs, baked to perfection. Ideal as a vegetable side dish for fish or ham lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or nutmeg into the mixture. If you're out of sharp cheese, any melty cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack can work as a substitute. You can also replace the cooked rice with quinoa for a healthier twist. To enhance texture, try adding breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy finish.
Serving Suggestions
This Herbed Spinach Casserole is a great side dish for a baked ham slice or as a vegetarian main. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting brunch option, serve it alongside a fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven method will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Spinach Casserole contains roughly 757 calories, with 14g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 785mg per serving (34% 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 substitute fresh spinach for frozen. Use about 1 pound of fresh spinach, wilt it in a pan, and then drain it well before mixing it into the casserole. This adds a fresher flavor and can enhance the dish's texture.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the Herbed Spinach Casserole dairy-free, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Make sure the Worcestershire sauce you choose is also vegan-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're putting it in the oven straight from the fridge.
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).