Spinach New Orleans
Spinach New Orleans is a creamy, cheesy baked spinach dish with a crunchy bread crumb topping. Rich and savory, it features tender spinach blended with cream cheese and butter, then topped with seasoned bread crumbs. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach according to package directions.
- Drain well. Add cream cheese and 1/2 stick butter.
- Mix well.
- Melt the second 1/2 stick butter.
- Mix melted butter with bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle bread crumb mixture on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a full 8 oz. of cream cheese instead of half. If you're short on butter, you can substitute olive oil or margarine. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or some grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor. This dish can easily be adapted for vegetarian recipes by ensuring no meat-based broths are used in any side dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach New Orleans dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a delightful meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete dining experience. For a unique twist, consider serving it with Rainbow Sherbet Squares for dessert, balancing the savory with a refreshing treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be mindful not to overcook, as this can change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach New Orleans contains roughly 1064 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein.
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 pound of fresh spinach to match the quantity of frozen. Sauté the fresh spinach in a bit of butter until wilted before following the rest of the recipe.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you need a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative. For a lighter version, you could use Greek yogurt, but this may alter the flavor and consistency slightly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).