Jean'S Delicious Spinach
Creamy spinach layered with mushroom soup, softened cream cheese, crispy fried onions, and crunchy crackers, baked to golden perfection—an irresistible side dish for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix well the cooked and drained spinach, mushroom soup, softened cream cheese, and French fried onions. Pour into a baking dish.
- Combine crushed crackers with melted oleo (butter) and spread over the top of the spinach mixture.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the spinach mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the cream cheese with cottage cheese. You can also use homemade fried onions for a fresher taste. To enhance the flavor, a sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of nutmeg can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a side for roasted meats or as part of a holiday spread. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Sweet Paulette'S Chocolate Surprise for dessert. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to balance the richness. For a vegetarian meal, enjoy it with quinoa or rice.
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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will help retain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Delicious Spinach contains roughly 871 calories, with 20g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1384mg per serving (60% 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 it until wilted, then drain well before mixing with the other ingredients. This will give your dish a vibrant flavor and texture, making it even more delicious.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crackers?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular crackers with gluten-free options available in stores. Alternatively, crushed gluten-free pretzels or even panko breadcrumbs can work well to achieve that crispy topping.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach mixture and topping a day in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).