Elevate your regular weeknight or holiday dinner with this cheesy Spinach Gratin!
Introducing Spinach Gratin, a delicious and versatile side dish perfect for any occasion.
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s versatile enough for a regular weeknight dinner and special enough for a holiday side dish, Spinach Gratin is your perfect choice.
This casserole-style side, rich in creamy and cheesy sauce, turns simple ingredients into a culinary delight.
Spinach Gratin isn’t just another spinach casserole.
It’s a budget-friendly recipe that can be prepped ahead and enjoyed as both a vegetarian and gluten-free side dish.
Its creamy texture and rich flavor profile make it an ideal accompaniment for any fall or winter meal, elevating family dinners to a new level of deliciousness.
Why Spinach Gratin is a “Must-Try”
Spinach Gratin is not just another side dish; it’s a casserole-style side that’s perfect for any fall or winter meal.
Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Prepped Ahead: Ideal for prepping in advance, especially useful for holiday dinners.
- Gluten-Free and Low Carb: A wonderful option for those seeking a gluten-free or low-carb side dish.
- Budget Friendly: Utilizes simple, affordable ingredients for a budget-friendly recipe.
- Leftover Friendly: Leftover spinach casserole can be easily stored and reheated.
Spinach Gratin Ingredients
(See the recipe card below for full ingredient list with quantities & instructions)
- Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach works well. If using fresh, make sure to wash and chop it. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess water.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for controlling the salt content while sautéing onions and garlic.
- Onion, Diced: A medium-sized onion, finely diced, to add a subtle sweetness.
- Garlic, Minced: Fresh garlic cloves, minced, for a punch of flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture.
- Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- Gruyere Cheese: Grated Gruyere provides a deliciously nutty and melty quality.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, umami flavor.
- Nutmeg: A pinch of ground nutmeg for a hint of warmth and complexity.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor of the gratin.
Spinach Gratin Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Preparing the Spinach: In a pan, melt butter and sauté diced onions and minced garlic. Add spinach until wilted.
- Making the Sauce: Combine cream cheese, heavy cream, gruyere cheese, parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a separate pot until smooth and creamy.
- Combining: Mix the spinach with the creamy sauce.
- Baking: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy this cheesy Spinach Gratin as a delightful addition to your family dinner or holiday table.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Spinach Gratin
Ensuring your Spinach Gratin stays fresh and delicious is easy with these simple storage and make-ahead tips:
Storage:
- In the Fridge: Keep any leftover Spinach Gratin in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will remain fresh and tasty for up to 5 days.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, place the leftovers in an airtight container and freeze them. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. For the best experience, allow the gratin to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Make-Ahead/Prep Ahead Spinach Casserole
- Preparing in Advance: You can prepare the Spinach Gratin ahead of time by following all the steps up to the baking point. Instead of baking, wrap the gratin tightly with Saran Wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours.
- Before Baking: About an hour before you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature. Then, simply bake it according to the recipe’s directions for a delicious and convenient meal.
These tips ensure that your Spinach Gratin is not just a delight to eat but also convenient for both immediate enjoyment and future meals, making it an ideal dish for busy schedules, family dinners, and special occasions alike.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Pair with Spinach Gratin?
Spinach Gratin, with its creamy and cheesy richness, is a versatile dish that complements a wide range of dishes.
Marry Me Chicken: Serve your Spinach Gratin alongside this romantic and creamy chicken dish for a combo that’s perfect for date night or a special family dinner.
Baked Paprika Chicken: The smoky flavor of paprika chicken pairs wonderfully with sweetness of the green beans.
Crispy Fried Chicken: This pairing is a nod to the beloved comfort food combo.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: For an East-meets-West fusion, the savory flavors of a stir fry complement the rich taste of the stir-fry beans.
Chicken Baked in Garlic Butter Sauce: The garlic butter sauce from the chicken melds beautifully with the sweetness of the beans.
Honey Fried Chicken: The sweet and tangy taste of honey mustard chicken adds a delightful contrast to the savory beans.
FAQ Section
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Spinach?
Yes, both fresh and frozen spinach work well for this recipe. If using fresh spinach, ensure it’s washed and roughly chopped. For frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture.
Is It Necessary to Let the Gratin Sit Before Serving?
Yes, it’s a good practice to let the gratin sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set and makes it easier to serve.
Other Side Dishes to Serve Alongside Spinach Gratin
If you’re planning a feast and need additional side dishes to round out the meal, consider these options that can coexist with Spinach Casserole.
Scalloped Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Baked Mac and Cheese
Roasted Parmesan Garlic Potatoes
Potato Salad
Ranch Roasted Carrots
Creamed Corn Au Gratin
Spinach Gratin (Spinach Casserole)
Spinach Gratin, also known as Spinach Casserole, is a delectable dish that combines the richness of creamy spinach with the delightful textures of melted cheeses. This gratin is an exquisite twist on traditional casseroles, offering a perfect balance of flavors that make it a favorite for both family meals and special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 10 oz bags frozen chopped spinach
- 3 tablespoons salted Challenge Butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 6 large cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded gruyere cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, optional
- salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Preparing the Spinach: In a pan, melt butter and sauté diced onions and minced garlic. Add spinach until wilted.
- Making the Sauce: Combine cream cheese, heavy cream, gruyere cheese, parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a separate pot until smooth and creamy.
- Combining: Mix the spinach with the creamy sauce.
- Baking: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy this cheesy Spinach Gratin as a delightful addition to your family dinner or holiday table.
Notes
Make-Ahead/Prep Ahead Spinach Casserole
- Preparing in Advance: You can prepare the Spinach Gratin ahead of time by following all the steps up to the baking point. Instead of baking, wrap the gratin tightly with Saran Wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours.
- Before Baking: About an hour before you're ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature. Then, simply bake it according to the recipe's directions for a delicious and convenient meal.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 341Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 17gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 88mgSodium 526mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 3gSugar 3gProtein 15g
