Spinach And Spaghetti
Creamy spinach and cheese spaghetti combines tender cooked spinach, melted cheeses, and savory Parmesan with pasta for a comforting, family-friendly dish. Its rich, cheesy flavor and smooth texture make it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spinach according to package directions; drain well.
- In a bowl, combine the beaten egg, sour cream, milk, 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, minced dried onion, salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir well.
- Fold in the drained spinach and cooked spaghetti until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into an ungreased 10 x 6 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or using cream cheese instead of sour cream. If you want to enhance the flavor, sauté fresh garlic or shallots before adding them to the mixture. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for a different taste. Always ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent a watery dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spinach and Spaghetti dish with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Grilled Cheese for a comforting meal. Consider adding some toasted garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce. For a complete vegetarian meal, complement it with roasted vegetables or a light soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Spaghetti contains roughly 252 calories, with 11g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2132mg per serving (93% 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 pound of fresh spinach, which should be cooked down before adding it to the mixture. Be sure to remove excess moisture, as fresh spinach contains more water than frozen spinach.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. There are many great options available made from rice, quinoa, or lentils that will work well in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
How can I make this dish more protein-rich?
To increase the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas to the mixture. You can also mix in some cottage cheese or feta cheese for added protein along with a creamy texture, making this a heartier meal.
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).