Description
Craving something creamy, cheesy, and packed with greens? Trisha Yearwood’s Spinach Casserole is your go-to comfort food. This easy dinner idea transforms frozen spinach into a bubbling, oven-baked masterpiece layered with rich béchamel sauce, gooey mozzarella, and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for quick weeknight meals, potlucks, or holiday sides, it’s one of those healthy-ish food ideas that everyone—from picky eaters to veggie lovers—will devour. If you’re searching for an easy recipe packed with flavor and warmth, this dish fits right in your collection of dinner ideas, comfort classics, and savory sides.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
20 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
1. Thaw the spinach completely and squeeze out all excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. Set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
3. Stir in the flour to form a roux, whisking for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the milk and cream while whisking until smooth. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
4. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and garlic powder. Stir in Parmesan and 1 cup of mozzarella until melted and incorporated.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach with sour cream and mayonnaise. Pour in the cheese sauce and mix well.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the spinach mixture.
7. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on the casserole, followed by the breadcrumb topping.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for an extra crispy topping.
9. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Serve warm.
Notes
Make sure the spinach is well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.
For best results, use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting and better flavor.
You can make the casserole ahead and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg