Jalapeno Spinach Casserole
A creamy, spicy spinach casserole with melted jalapeno cheese, perfect as a flavorful side dish for gatherings or family dinners seeking a savory vegetable option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add flour, spinach water, evaporated milk, black pepper, and garlic salt to the sautéed onions and blend well.
- Add the jalapeno cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked spinach with the cheese mixture and transfer to a casserole dish.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs and bake in the oven until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the evaporated milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you want to reduce the spice level, use mild cheese instead of jalapeno cheese. You can also add cooked, crumbled bacon for added flavor. For a gluten-free option, replace flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a main dish alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheese Canapes for an appetizer or side. For a more filling option, consider serving it with crusty bread or corn muffins. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Spinach Casserole contains roughly 444 calories, with 14g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 26g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 it until wilted and measure out the equivalent amount to replace the frozen spinach. You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach to yield the same amount after cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding diced fresh jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're cooking it 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).