Spinach Florentine
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining tender spinach, seasoned ground meat, and pasta, all topped with cheese and bread crumbs. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, it offers a comforting blend of savory tomato sauce, spinach, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped spinach, drain, and set aside, reserving the liquid.
- Brown the ground meat and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain the grease from the meat mixture.
- Stir the spinach liquid (reserved from cooking spinach) and sauces into the meat.
- Simmer the mixture.
- Cook the seashell macaroni until al dente and drain.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese, cooked spinach, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, and 1/2 cup of oil.
- Spread the spinach-macaroni mixture in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Top with the meat mixture.
- Bake at 350°F until bubbling and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, substitute ground meat with turkey or a plant-based option for a vegetarian version. You can also use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just sauté it until wilted. If you want more flavor, add Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Ensure the macaroni is not overcooked to maintain texture in the final bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spinach Florentine with a side salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette pairs beautifully with this dish. For a complete meal, consider offering a light dessert like Oatmeal Cookies(Oatsies) to finish off the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Florentine contains roughly 1168 calories, with 32g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), iron (64% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 883mg per serving (38% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor. Just keep in mind the melting properties of the cheese you choose to ensure it integrates well with the dish.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Definitely! You can assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient make-ahead meal option.
What can I serve with Spinach Florentine?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a light soup. For a heartier meal, serve with some garlic bread or a slice of cheesy focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce.
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).