Spinach Casserole With Water Chestnuts
A creamy spinach casserole with water chestnuts and tomatoes, offering a savory blend of flavors. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, appealing to vegetable lovers.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. fresh spinach or 2 (10 oz.) packages frozen chopped spinach ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can water chestnuts, sliced
- 3/8 cup (6 Tbsp.) butter, divided ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. heavy cream ⓘ
- pinch of grated nutmeg ⓘ
- 2 onions, chopped
- 4 large tomatoes, peeled and chopped ⓘ
- 1 cup buttered bread crumbs ⓘ
Instructions
- Wash spinach well and remove tough stems.
- Cook spinach with 1 tablespoon water and 1 teaspoon salt for 10 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain well and chop fine.
- If using frozen spinach, prepare according to package directions; drain well.
- Return drained spinach to pan.
- Add sliced water chestnuts, 3 tablespoons butter, heavy cream, and seasonings to taste.
- Place in a buttered casserole and bake as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash more heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream. You can substitute the water chestnuts with sliced mushrooms for a different flavor profile. If using fresh spinach, ensure it's thoroughly dried after washing to avoid excess moisture in the dish. This casserole can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
This spinach casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. Serve alongside a fresh salad, like Honey Mustard Slaw, for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a slice of crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Casserole With Water Chestnuts contains roughly 726 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1259mg per serving (55% 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, frozen spinach is a great alternative and can save time. Just prepare it according to package directions, making sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian. To enhance its flavor, consider adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even some cheese for a richer taste. This flexibility makes it a great option for vegetarians and those seeking lighter American recipes.
Can I add protein to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or even some crumbled tofu for added protein. This makes the dish more filling and turns it into a complete meal with a balance of flavors and nutrients.
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).