Super Spinach Casserole
A creamy spinach casserole with a savory onion dip and crispy stuffing topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spinach according to package directions; drain well.
- Combine cooked spinach, melted margarine, French onion dip, salt, and pepper in a bowl; mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into a 1-quart baking dish.
- Top with herb seasoned stuffing mix.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a layer of cream cheese or sour cream to the spinach mixture. If you're out of French onion dip, a blend of sour cream and onion powder can be a great substitute. You can also incorporate other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor. To reduce the sodium, use low-sodium margarine and omit the salt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Super Spinach Casserole alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Fresh Cucumber Slices for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider adding grilled chicken or serving it as a side to Cornmeal Sticks (Surullitos De Maiz - Spanish Recipe) for a flavorful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Spinach Casserole contains roughly 404 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 598mg per serving (26% 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, but you'll need to cook it down significantly to reduce the volume. Start with about 1 pound of fresh spinach, sauté it until wilted, then drain and chop before adding to the casserole mixture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the herb seasoned stuffing mix with a gluten-free variety or use crushed gluten-free crackers. Always check the labels on all packaged ingredients to ensure they're gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
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).