Scalloped Spinach With Cheese
Creamy scalloped spinach layered with cheese, eggs, and crispy bread crumbs, baked to golden perfection—an elegant side dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Divide the drained spinach, white sauce, cheese pieces, sliced hard-cooked eggs, and buttered bread crumbs into separate portions.
- Layer the ingredients in a casserole in the following order: bread crumbs, spinach, white sauce, cheese, eggs, and repeat, ending with bread crumbs on top.
- Dot the top layer with small pieces of butter.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the bread crumbs are browned and crispy, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the white sauce. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat bread for the crumbs or swap in a dairy-free cheese. Adding garlic or nutmeg to the white sauce can enhance the flavors significantly, and if you like a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scalloped spinach as a delicious side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. It pairs beautifully with hearty grain salads or can complement a light soup for a satisfying meal. For a vegetarian option, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to round out the plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the scalloped spinach in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the bread crumbs.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Spinach With Cheese contains roughly 628 calories, with 20g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thoroughly drain it before adding it to the casserole. Frozen spinach can hold more water, which might affect the consistency of the dish. Squeeze out any excess moisture to ensure your scalloped spinach remains creamy and delicious.
What can I substitute for the white sauce?
If you don't have white sauce on hand, you can use a store-bought cheese sauce or make a quick version with melted cheese and milk. Alternatively, a creamy ranch dressing can work in a pinch, but be mindful of the flavor it imparts to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the scalloped spinach a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and 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.
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).