This Spinach and Potato Casserole is a delicious, hearty dish inspired by the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine. Combining simple, wholesome ingredients, this casserole is both comforting and nutritious, making it perfect for any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to more special occasions. The tender, golden-baked potatoes provide a satisfying base, while the rich, creamy spinach adds depth and nutrients. A generous layer of melty mozzarella ties everything together, making each bite indulgent yet balanced. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly recipe or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this casserole brings flavor, comfort, and a touch of Mediterranean warmth to your table.
This Spinach and Potato Casserole is a warm, hearty dish packed with healthy spinach, creamy layers of potatoes, and a generous dose of melted mozzarella cheese. Inspired by Spanish flavors, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for cozy family dinners or even special gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (washed and chopped)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even thickness. Spread half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish, lightly seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook Spinach Mixture: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread the cooked spinach mixture evenly over the layer of potatoes. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the spinach. Add the remaining potatoes on top, seasoning again with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream. Pour this mixture over the layered potatoes and spinach, ensuring even coverage.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese and optional Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Tips for the Perfect Spinach and Potato Casserole:
- Thin Potatoes for Even Cooking: Make sure to slice the potatoes as thinly as possible to ensure they cook evenly. Using a mandoline slicer is a great way to achieve uniform slices.
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to customize this casserole by adding other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These can be sautéed with the spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: While mozzarella melts beautifully, you can also mix in other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina for a more complex flavor.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before popping it into the oven.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, simply ensure all your ingredients (like heavy cream and cheese) are certified gluten-free. You can also skip any breading or flour typically used in some casseroles.
- Crispier Top: For a crispier, golden top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
This hearty Spinach and Potato Casserole, inspired by Spanish cuisine, is a delightful combination of soft, tender potatoes, creamy spinach, and gooey mozzarella. It’s an easy-to-make, one-dish meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion. The savory flavors and rich textures make it a comforting dish that satisfies without feeling too heavy. Plus, with customizable options, you can tailor it to your preferences. Perfect for meal prepping, this casserole holds up well for leftovers, making it a great choice for busy weeknights!
