Spinach That Kids Will Eat
A creamy, cheesy spinach dish that kids love, combining frozen spinach with savory soup and sour cream, topped with melted cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw out spinach and squeeze out as much water as possible.
- Mix the spinach with cream of asparagus soup and sour cream.
- Transfer the mixture to an ungreased casserole dish.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the spinach mixture. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. If you don’t have cream of asparagus soup, cream of mushroom works well too. This dish can also be adapted to include other veggies like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers, making it a versatile side dish for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy spinach dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish and can be served alongside Ooooh-La-La Potatoes for a comforting meal. Consider adding a fresh green salad for a balanced plate. It's an excellent choice for family gatherings or as a side for holiday dinners, bringing a tasty and nutritious option to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach That Kids Will Eat contains roughly 480 calories, with 26g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (63% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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! Just make sure to wash it thoroughly, remove stems, and sauté it until wilted before squeezing out excess water. You may need about 1 pound of fresh spinach to equal 10 oz. of frozen.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of asparagus soup. You can find various brands in stores or make your own using gluten-free ingredients. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you want a different flavor, try using mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese instead of Cheddar. For a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a dairy-free cheese substitute that melts well.
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).