Jalapeno Spinach
A creamy, spicy spinach dish infused with jalapeno cheese, perfect as a side or appetizer for those who enjoy bold flavors and cheesy comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped spinach and drain well.
- Make a sauce by melting butter, then stirring in flour and milk; cook until thickened.
- Add chopped onion, pepper, celery salt, and garlic salt to the sauce.
- Cut the jalapeno cheese into small cubes and add to the sauce, stirring until melted.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked spinach.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Chill the casserole for 6 hours or longer for better flavor.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter when making the sauce. You can substitute the jalapeno cheese with pepper jack or a mix of cheddar and diced jalapenos if you prefer a milder flavor. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be used in a pinch to add depth to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Jalapeno Spinach casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue or potluck, alongside favorites like One Fruit Cobbler for dessert. It's also great with crusty bread for a comforting vegetarian dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Spinach contains roughly 294 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of 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, which should be cooked down until wilted before draining. Fresh spinach will have a different texture but will still work well in this dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just make sure to bake it straight from the fridge; it may take a few extra minutes in the oven to heat through.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Jalapeno Spinach casserole is a great option for vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet.
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).