Mimi'S Spinach Parmesan
A creamy spinach and Parmesan casserole with a hint of garlic and thyme, perfect as a side dish or vegetarian main for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the spinach, drain, and squeeze dry. Chop until there are no large stems and place in a mixing bowl.
- Tear the bread into small pieces and add to the bowl.
- Add minced onion, melted margarine, thyme, minced garlic, heavy cream, beaten eggs, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl.
- Blend all ingredients well.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly buttered baking dish.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh spinach instead of frozen, if available. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with any hard cheese for a different taste. If you're looking to reduce calories, swap heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half. For added texture, include some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers in the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Mimi's Spinach Parmesan makes a delightful side dish or a light main course. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or pair it with grilled chicken for a more substantial meal. It complements well with the refreshing flavors of Paradise Cranberry Salad, making it a great choice for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as it can dry out the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mimi'S Spinach Parmesan contains roughly 695 calories, with 13g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 756mg per serving (33% 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 blanch and chop it before adding to the mixture. Fresh spinach will provide a brighter flavor and texture, but you may need to adjust the quantity since it wilts down significantly.
How do I know when the dish is done baking?
The dish is done when it is lightly browned on top and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it around the 15-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the baking dish and bake it fresh when you're ready to serve, adjusting the baking time as needed if it's coming 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).