Lady Bird Johnson'S Spinach Parmesan
Lady Bird Johnson's Spinach Parmesan is a creamy, cheesy baked spinach dish with a crispy cracker crumb topping, perfect for family dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cooked, cleaned spinach in water (or may steam same). Drain thoroughly and chop coarsely.
- Add Parmesan cheese, minced onion, heavy cream, and 4 tablespoons of melted butter to the spinach.
- Arrange the mixture in a shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle with cracker crumbs mixed with the remaining melted butter.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the spinach mixture. If you're short on Parmesan, you can substitute with grated Pecorino Romano. Make sure to properly drain the spinach to avoid a watery dish. For those sensitive to dairy, use a non-dairy cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of cheese. This dish can also be made ahead and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a delightful side with roasted chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Alabama Lemon Cake for dessert, creating a refreshing end to your meal. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a hearty grain salad or over a bed of quinoa. This recipe is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored 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 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed to your liking. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lady Bird Johnson'S Spinach Parmesan contains roughly 264 calories, with 7g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (82% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 4g 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used as a convenient alternative; just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it before adding to the recipe. This will help prevent excess moisture that could make the dish soggy.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also omit the crumbs altogether for a low-carb version while still enjoying the delicious flavors.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
For added flavor, consider incorporating ingredients like sautéed garlic, red pepper flakes, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can also elevate the taste profile.
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).