Creamy Spinach and Potato Bake

Ingredients

• • Frozen Spinach: 500 g (17.6 oz), thawed and drained

• • Potatoes: 500 g (17.6 oz), peeled and sliced
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Sunflower Oil: 1 tablespoon

• • Butter: 20 g (0.7 oz)
  • Red Onion: 1, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced

• • Green Onions: 2, chopped
  • Water: 150 ml (⅔ cup)
  • Milk: 400 ml (1⅔ cups)

• • Nutmeg: A pinch
  • Chili Pepper: To taste
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste

• Flour: 50 g (⅓ cup)
• Grated Mozzarella: 100 g (3.5 oz)

Directions

• • Prepare the Potatoes:
    • • Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
    • Boil the sliced potatoes in salted water for 10 minutes, or until just tender. Drain and set aside.
  • Cook the Spinach Mixture:
    • • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • • Sauté the red onion, garlic, and green onions until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
      • Add the thawed and drained spinach, stir well, and cook for 5 minutes.
      • Season with nutmeg, chili pepper, salt, and black pepper.

  • Prepare the White Sauce:
    • • In a separate pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat.
      • Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
    • Gradually whisk in the water and milk, ensuring no lumps form.
    • Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

• • Assemble the Dish:
    • • Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.
      • Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish.
      • Spread half of the spinach mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the white sauce.
    • Repeat with the remaining potatoes, spinach, and white sauce.
  • Add Cheese and Bake:
    • • Sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over the top.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  • Final Browning:
    • • Return the dish to the oven for an additional 15 minutes for a crispy topping.

  • Serve:
    • Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving.

5 Serving Suggestions

• • Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
  • Enjoy as a main dish with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

5 Cooking Tips

• • Use fresh spinach instead of frozen if desired; sauté it until wilted before combining with the onion mixture.

• • Thinly slice the potatoes for even cooking and layering.
  • For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the white sauce.
  • Mix in other cheeses like Parmesan or Gruyere for a more complex flavor.

• Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven to set the layers.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Spinach: High in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C.
  • Potatoes: A great source of potassium and dietary fiber.

• Milk: Provides calcium and protein for bone health.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free flour for the white sauce)

• Dairy-Free: No (use dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese for a dairy-free version)

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Protein: 10g

• • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 5g

Storage

• • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes.

• Freezing: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • A comforting and hearty dish with creamy layers.
  • Perfect for vegetarians or as a side dish for meat-based meals.

• • Easy to prepare with everyday ingredients.
  • Packed with nutrients from spinach and potatoes.
  • Delicious with a golden, cheesy topping!

Conclusion

This Creamy Spinach and Potato Bake is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings together the richness of cheese, the heartiness of potatoes, and the freshness of spinach. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this bake is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and creamy texture.