Polly'S Spinach And Rice Casserole
Creamy spinach and rice casserole combines tender spinach, cheesy richness, and a hint of red pepper for a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach in boiling water until tender, then drain thoroughly.
- Cook rice in 1 cup of water with beef bouillon cubes until tender.
- Mix cooked spinach, rice, grated cheddar cheese, butter, salt, and red pepper in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, try sautéing some onions and garlic before mixing them into the casserole. For a healthier option, you can substitute brown rice for minute rice, though cooking times may vary. If you want to add some protein, shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground beef can be mixed in. Don't forget to taste for seasoning before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a great main dish and pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting family dinner, serve alongside Mom'S Golden Potatoes for an extra hearty experience. You can also top it with additional cheese before baking for an even cheesier finish.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polly'S Spinach And Rice Casserole contains roughly 380 calories, with 12g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (96% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1245mg per serving (54% 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! You'll need about 1.5 pounds of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted, then drain and chop before adding it to the mixture. This will provide a fresher flavor and texture in the casserole.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Polly's Spinach and Rice Casserole vegetarian, simply omit the beef bouillon cubes and use vegetable broth instead. Additionally, double-check that your cheese is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands may use animal rennet.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through completely.
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).