Spinach Madeline
Spinach Madeline is a creamy, cheesy spinach casserole with a rich blend of flavors, including melted jalapeno cheese and buttery breadcrumbs. Perfect as a savory side dish for family dinners or special occasions, it offers a comforting, flavorful experience that pleases both spinach lovers and cheese aficionados.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach according to directions. Drain and reserve liquid.
- Melt butter or oleo in a saucepan over low heat. Add flour and stir until well blended, but not brown.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft and clear.
- Slowly add reserved liquid, stirring constantly until smooth and thick.
- Add seasoning and cut-up jalapeno cheese, stirring until melted.
- Combine cooked spinach with the cheese sauce.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish and top with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream instead of half and half. You can also substitute the jalapeno cheese with a milder cheese if you prefer less heat. To enhance the flavors, add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. If you're short on time, pre-cooked frozen spinach works well too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spinach Madeline as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Apple Glazed Carrots for a colorful plate. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a side of fluffy rice or crusty bread. This dish can also be a comforting main course on its own.
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 cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Madeline contains roughly 333 calories, with 7g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1287mg per serving (56% 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. About 10 ounces of fresh spinach will yield the same amount as 3 packages of frozen. Simply wash, chop, and sauté the fresh spinach until wilted before adding it to the cheese sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat level, you can add diced fresh jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. Additionally, consider serving the dish with a hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for 1-2 days. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).