Spinach-Artichoke Au Gratin
A creamy, cheesy spinach and artichoke au gratin with rich flavors, perfect as a side dish for gatherings or a comforting appetizer for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a skillet; add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add flour to the skillet and stir until blended with the margarine and onions.
- Gradually add milk and bring to a slow boil, stirring constantly.
- Add drained spinach and drained artichoke hearts to the mixture.
- Cook the mixture for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add parmesan cheese and cheddar cheese, then cook for an additional 10 minutes until cheeses are melted and bubbly.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper if desired, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic or a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture. If you're out of parmesan, you can substitute it with grated pecorino or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option. For a creamier texture, replace half of the sour cream with cream cheese. This dish is versatile; feel free to incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach-Artichoke Au Gratin is a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light soup, like tomato basil. You can also include it in a vegetarian spread with dishes like Cream Cheese Corn Casserole and other dips for a delightful gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but oven reheating will help maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach-Artichoke Au Gratin contains roughly 907 calories, with 31g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (109% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2187mg per serving (95% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the au gratin a day in advance. Just complete the cooking steps and let it cool before covering and refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until bubbly. This is a great way to save time if you're hosting a gathering.
Can I freeze the Spinach-Artichoke Au Gratin?
Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven for best results.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works well and adds a nice tang. For a dairy-free option, you can use cashew cream or a vegan sour cream alternative. These substitutes should provide a similar creaminess without compromising flavor.
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).