Spinach Fondondo
Creamy spinach fondue with ground beef, mushrooms, and melted mozzarella offers a hearty, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the chopped onion, garlic, ground beef, drained mushrooms, salt, pepper, and oregano in a skillet.
- Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Add the frozen chopped spinach, cover, and cook until thawed.
- Stir in the celery soup and sour cream, mixing thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered casserole dish.
- Arrange sliced mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Spinach Fondondo, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mixture or substituting the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also add freshness. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or chickpeas in place of the meat. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Spinach Fondondo with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Jeannie'S Meat Loaf for a comforting meal. For a more substantial dinner, consider adding roasted vegetables or a side of pasta. Top with fresh herbs before serving for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Spinach Fondondo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Fondondo contains roughly 573 calories, with 29g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2177mg 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 use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! You'll need about 1.5 pounds of fresh spinach, as it cooks down significantly. Sauté it in the skillet until wilted before adding it to the mixture. This will provide a fresher taste and a vibrant color to your dish.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat sour cream and substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, using a lower-fat cheese or reducing the amount of cheese on top can help cut down on calories while still keeping the dish delicious.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Spinach Fondondo can be prepared in advance. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).