Spinach With Cream Cheese Casserole
Creamy spinach with melted cream cheese and savory onion soup mix creates a rich, comforting casserole perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen spinach according to package directions and drain.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the cream cheese in your casserole dish.
- Add the cooked spinach to the melted cream cheese and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in the onion soup mix.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the mixture before baking. If you're out of onion soup mix, a combination of onion powder and garlic powder can work well. Fresh spinach can be substituted, though you'll need to sauté it first to remove excess moisture. This dish also pairs beautifully with the flavors of Ham And Macaroni Scallop.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy spinach casserole as a delicious side dish for grilled meats or alongside a simple salad for a light meal. It also makes a great pairing with pork recipes, adding a rich, savory element to your dinner. Consider garnishing with cooked bacon bits for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach With Cream Cheese Casserole contains roughly 146 calories, with 8g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 887mg per serving (39% 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. You'll need to sauté it first to wilt it down and remove excess moisture before mixing it with the cream cheese. This will help maintain the right texture in your casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cream cheese. It will give a tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, ricotta cheese mixed with a bit of sour cream can also work well in this recipe.
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).