Spinach And Cheese Souffle
Indulge in a delightful Spinach and Cheese Soufflé that brings together the earthy flavor of spinach and the rich creaminess of sharp American cheese. This airy dish is perfect for brunch or a light dinner, impressing guests with its elegant presentation and comforting taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach according to package directions; drain well.
- In a saucepan, melt butter.
- Blend in flour and salt.
- Add 1 cup of milk all at once.
- Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat.
- Add cheese and stir until melted.
- Reserve 3/4 cup of the sauce; stir spinach into remaining sauce.
- Beat egg yolks until thick and lemon colored, about 5 minutes.
- Slowly stir in spinach mixture.
- Gradually pour over beaten egg whites, folding together well.
- Turn into a 1 1/2-quart soufflé dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350° until knife inserted just off center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes.
- Just before serving, in saucepan, combine reserved sauce, the 1/2 cup milk and pepper. Heat until bubbly.
- Slowly stir hot sauce into sour cream.
- Pass with soufflé.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter soufflé, be sure to whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form, which helps achieve a fluffy texture. If sharp American cheese isn't available, you can substitute it with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a similar flavor. To enhance the taste, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the spinach mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soufflé warm, drizzled with the reserved sauce mixed with sour cream. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving this alongside Buttermilk Pound Cake or a fruit compote.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spinach and cheese soufflé can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the soufflé rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Cheese Souffle contains roughly 592 calories, with 16g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1585mg per serving (69% 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 make the soufflé ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soufflé mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. However, it's best to bake it just before serving to maintain its airy texture. If you have leftover batter, it can also be baked later but may not rise as high.
What can I use instead of frozen spinach?
You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Simply sauté about 8 ounces of fresh spinach in a bit of butter until wilted, then chop it finely before adding it to the sauce. This will give a fresher taste and vibrant color to the soufflé.
How do I know when the soufflé is done baking?
The soufflé is done when it is puffed and golden on top. Insert a knife into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Keep an eye on the time, as baking too long can lead to a deflated soufflé.
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).