Spinach Suprize
A creamy spinach casserole with melted cheese and savory seasonings, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen spinach, drain, and reserve 1 cup of the liquid.
- Set the cooked spinach aside.
- Melt butter in a skillet and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add flour to the onion and butter mixture, then gradually stir in the evaporated milk and the reserved spinach liquid.
- Cut the cheese with pepper into cubes and add to the mixture along with Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, celery salt, and the cooked spinach.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of evaporated milk. If you don’t have cheese with pepper, regular cheese can be used with a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to avoid a watery dish. This recipe is a great vegetarian option and can also be served as a side dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spinach Suprize as a delightful main dish alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Moo'S Apple Cobbler for a comforting meal. For added flavor, consider sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving, which enhances the cheesy goodness of the dish.
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 warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, making it a convenient choice for busy days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Suprize contains roughly 229 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 14g fat.
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, fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen. You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach, as it cooks down significantly. Sauté the fresh spinach until wilted before adding it to the mixture, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure it's adequately cooked.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Just be sure to check the labels of your cheese and Worcestershire sauce to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Spinach Suprize ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing 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).