Spinach Parmesan
A creamy spinach dish blended with Parmesan, onion, and buttery crumbs, perfect as a side for family dinners or special occasions craving savory greens.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and cook spinach until tender.
- Drain well and chop coarsely.
- Mix chopped spinach with Parmesan cheese, minced onion, heavy cream, and 4 tablespoons of melted margarine.
- Place the mixture in a shallow, 1-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle with cracker crumbs and drizzle with remaining margarine.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting a combination of cream cheese and sour cream instead of heavy cream. If you're short on Parmesan, a blend of other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano can work in a pinch. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the spinach mixture. This dish pairs beautifully with Cheesy Garlic Grits(Great As Brunch Side Dish Or With Fried Chicken Or Ham Dinner).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spinach Parmesan as a delightful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a great vegetarian main when paired with a refreshing salad. Consider serving it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. For an elevated experience, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dish watery and affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Parmesan contains roughly 707 calories, with 9g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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, you can use frozen spinach as a convenient alternative. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before chopping and mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help maintain the right consistency and prevent the dish from becoming watery.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can easily substitute butter or olive oil for margarine in this recipe. Both options will add a rich flavor to the dish. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a plant-based spread can also work well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the spinach mixture. Alternatively, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick. Adjust the amount to your taste preference for the perfect spice level.
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).