Lucerne Spinach Casserole
A creamy spinach casserole with Parmesan and cottage cheese, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavors and hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach as directed on package; drain well.
- Blend eggs with a fork.
- Add remaining ingredients to the eggs and spinach mixture.
- Pour into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. If you're short on time, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just sauté it until wilted. For added flavor, include minced garlic or onion in the mixture. To reduce sodium, opt for low-salt Parmesan cheese. This dish can also be adapted to include other vegetables, making it a great option for those exploring vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or fish, and pairs beautifully with Slimming Potato Salad for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it as a hearty brunch dish, accompanied by Eggs Ol or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Lucerne Spinach Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lucerne Spinach Casserole contains roughly 504 calories, with 20g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 962mg per serving (42% 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 for this casserole?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach, which should be sautéed until wilted before mixing it with the other ingredients. Make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach mixture and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Both alternatives will still provide a delicious cheesy taste to the dish.
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).