Cheesy Spinach & Potato Casserole: A Complete Comfort Food Guide
There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to bring comfort to your table. This Cheesy Spinach & Potato Casserole is a creamy, hearty dish that combines tender potatoes, savory spinach, and melty cheese into a perfect baked delight. Whether you’re looking for a cozy side dish or a filling vegetarian meal, this casserole delivers on flavor, texture, and wholesome goodness.
With layers of sliced potatoes, a rich cheese sauce, and the added nutrients of spinach, this dish is both indulgent and nutritious. It’s an excellent option for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, as it reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
450g (1 lb) potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
250g (9 oz) fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
4 large eggs
4 tablespoons (60g) sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
150g (5.3 oz) hard cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère), grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish.
Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch or 3mm thick). Place in cold water as you work to prevent browning.
Cook the spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add spinach and cook until wilted (2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the egg mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, garlic powder, baking powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assembly
Layer the ingredients: Drain the potato slices and pat them dry. Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the spinach mixture. Repeat with remaining potatoes and spinach mixture.
Add egg mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and spinach.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Baking
Cover and bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Finish uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Rest before serving: Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Here’s an introduction and some useful tips for making the perfect Cheesy Spinach & Potato Casserole!
Tips for the Best Cheesy Spinach & Potato Casserole
Choose the Right Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best. Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture, while Russets give a softer, more tender bite.
Pre-Cook the Potatoes (Optional) – To speed up baking, consider parboiling or microwaving the sliced potatoes for a few minutes before layering them in the casserole.
Use Fresh or Frozen Spinach – If using fresh spinach, sauté it briefly to remove excess moisture. For frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible to avoid a watery casserole.
Go Bold with Cheese – A mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a well-balanced flavor. For extra depth, try smoked gouda or gruyère.
Enhance with Herbs & Spices – Garlic, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of nutmeg bring warmth and elevate the taste. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a slight kick.
Make it Creamier – A combination of milk, heavy cream, or even Greek yogurt can make the casserole extra creamy. A roux-based cheese sauce ensures even distribution.
Crispy Topping for a Crunch – Finish with a topping of buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for an irresistible golden crust.
Let it Rest Before Serving – Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 265
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 14g