Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole, a sophisticated and elegant dish that celebrates the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Crafted with care and attention to detail, this casserole is a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to a world of sensory delight.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole
Elevating the humble casserole to new heights, this delectable dish is a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures. The velvety smooth béchamel sauce, the earthy mushrooms, the nutrient-rich spinach, and the gooey, decadent cheese create a refined and indulgent experience that will leave you craving more. This casserole is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance, making it a beloved dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
This Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole features a carefully curated selection of high-quality, fresh ingredients that work in perfect harmony to deliver a truly gourmet experience. From the fragrant mushrooms to the nutrient-dense spinach, each component plays a vital role in creating the ultimate comfort food.
- 1 lb (454 g) – Fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 1 lb (454 g) – Cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups (500 ml) – Whole milk
- 4 tbsp (60 g) – Unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp (30 g) – All-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) – Shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) – Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (60 g) – Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp (5 ml) – Kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) – Ground black pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Vegan: Replace the dairy products with plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole
Crafting this indulgent Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole is a harmonious process that brings together a symphony of flavors and textures.
Step 1 — Prep Work
Begin by carefully selecting and preparing the ingredients, ensuring that they are fresh and of the highest quality. Wash the spinach thoroughly, chop the mushrooms, and grate the cheese.
Step 2 — Main Cooking Process
Sauté the mushrooms to bring out their earthy flavors, then create a rich and creamy béchamel sauce. Fold in the spinach and a generous amount of cheese, creating a luscious and indulgent filling.
Step 3 — Final Steps/Assembly
Transfer the filling to a casserole dish and top it with a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, creating a delicate and crunchy topping.
Step 4 — Finishing Touches
Bake the casserole until it’s golden brown and bubbly, then let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The result is a beautiful, gourmet dish that is sure to impress and delight your guests.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Garlic and Onion: For an even more elevated experience, consider adding a touch of minced garlic or finely diced onion to the filling.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as fontina or Havarti, to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Crispy Toppings: To make this dish even more indulgent, you can top it with crispy pancetta or prosciutto.
- Seasonal Variations: Adjust the filling ingredients based on the season, incorporating fresh, local produce for a truly authentic experience.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: A crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or crusty bread.
Storage: Any leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Reheat: To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling.
Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.
Nutrition Information
This Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole is a balanced and nutritious dish, featuring a blend of healthy greens, protein-rich mushrooms, and calcium-rich cheese. While it is a comforting and indulgent meal, it can be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet when consumed in moderation.
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbs: 25 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole can be assembled in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, this dish can be made vegetarian or vegan by substituting the dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as fontina or Havarti, to find your perfect flavor profile.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
This Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or crusty bread.
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Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this elegant Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Casserole, a refined comfort dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the richness of cheese and the freshness of spinach.
Ingredients
1 lb fresh spinach
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and mushrooms, sauté until mushrooms are tender.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
5. Layer the spinach and mushroom mixture in a baking dish, followed by the cheese mixture.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and remaining Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. This casserole can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sheet Pan & Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg