Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

My Grandmother’s Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy spinach and crispy bread crumbs, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion. This casserole stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for complementing beef or lamb dishes during the holidays. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this dish will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this casserole can be made quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of buttery spinach and crispy topping creates a delicious contrast that everyone will love.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great alongside various main courses, it pairs well with both meats and vegetarian options.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and bake it right before serving, saving time on busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich taste and appealing presentation, it’s sure to satisfy guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Spinach Rockefeller Casserole efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Small bowl
• Food processor (optional)
• Casserole dish
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Essential for cooking the spinach evenly without losing flavor.
• Casserole dish: Provides an even baking surface, ensuring your casserole cooks perfectly throughout.
• Food processor: Makes quick work of creating fresh bread crumbs for a crunchy topping.

Ingredients

For the Spinach Mixture

• 2 boxes frozen chopped spinach
• ¼ cup water
• 3 slices white bread, crusts removed, torn into pieces
• ½ cup butter (1 stick)
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1½ tsps Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ tsp garlic salt

For the Topping

• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• ½ cup coarse, fresh bread crumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

How to Make Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden brown color.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach

In a medium saucepan, add the frozen chopped spinach along with ¼ cup of water. Cover with a lid and cook over medium heat. Stir frequently to break up the spinach as it cooks for about 10 to 15 minutes. Do not drain any water; it adds moisture to the mixture.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the torn bread pieces, butter, celery salt, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic salt to the cooked spinach. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly. Allow it to simmer for an additional 10 minutes while stirring frequently until everything is heated through.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

While the spinach mixture simmers, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine melted butter with fresh bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese using a fork until crumbly and evenly mixed.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Lightly butter a small round casserole dish. Transfer the spinach mixture into the dish and smooth out the top. Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the spinach. Bake in the center of your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until browned and bubbly on top.

Now you have a delicious Spinach Rockefeller Casserole ready to serve! Enjoy this creamy side dish that pairs beautifully with your favorite meals.

How to Serve Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Serving Spinach Rockefeller Casserole can elevate any meal, making it a perfect addition to your dining table. This creamy and crispy dish pairs well with various main courses and sides, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

With Grilled Beef

• Grilled steak or beef tenderloin complements the rich flavors of the casserole, providing a hearty contrast.

Alongside Roast Lamb

• The savory notes of roasted lamb harmonize beautifully with the creamy spinach, creating a well-rounded plate.

As a Side for Turkey

• Serve this casserole next to your holiday turkey for an attractive and delicious twist on traditional sides.

Paired with Chicken

• Roasted or grilled chicken makes an excellent partner, balancing the dish’s richness with its mild flavor.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light, crisp salad can cut through the creaminess of the casserole, refreshing your palate between bites.

As Part of a Buffet

• This casserole is an excellent choice for parties or gatherings, allowing guests to serve themselves alongside other dishes.

How to Perfect Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Creating the perfect Spinach Rockefeller Casserole requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen. It will provide better texture and flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the celery salt and Worcestershire sauce according to your taste preferences for a more personalized flavor.
• Ensure Even Heating: Stir the spinach mixture thoroughly while cooking to ensure even heating and avoid any cold spots in the final dish.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking; ovens can vary in temperature, so adjust the time as needed for a perfectly browned topping.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting accompaniment that balances the dish’s richness.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds both color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast and adds protein.
4. Herb Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs creates an aromatic side that pairs well with spinach casserole.
5. Steamed Asparagus
   Simple steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances the meal’s overall freshness and color.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
   Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, which nicely balances the savory flavors of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spinach Rockefeller Casserole, there are several common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring thawing – Make sure to thaw frozen spinach completely before cooking. This prevents excess water from affecting the dish’s texture.
• Overcooking the spinach – Cook the spinach just until heated through; overcooking can lead to a mushy casserole. Stir frequently and keep an eye on it.
• Skipping the seasoning – Don’t forget to use seasonings like celery salt and garlic salt. These enhance the flavor and make your casserole more delicious.
• Not using enough topping – Ensure you have a generous layer of the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture on top. This creates a delightful crispy crust that contrasts with the creamy spinach.
• Using stale bread – Fresh bread yields better texture in your topping. Make sure your bread is fresh or slightly stale for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350ºF and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave – Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Spinach Rockefeller Casserole:

What is Spinach Rockefeller Casserole?

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a creamy baked dish made with spinach, seasoned breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich side dish perfect for gatherings.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Sauté the fresh spinach until wilted and then follow the recipe as directed.

How do I customize my Spinach Rockefeller Casserole?

You can add ingredients like artichokes, sautéed mushrooms, or different cheeses for added flavor and variety.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Spinach Rockefeller Casserole?

This dish pairs beautifully with beef or lamb dishes and makes a great side for festive occasions.

Final Thoughts

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile enough to be served at any gathering. With its creamy texture and crispy topping, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to make it your own!

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Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish that combines creamy spinach with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This dish is perfect for any gathering, especially during the holidays, as it pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses such as beef, lamb, or turkey. The buttery spinach and crunchy topping create a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or enjoying a cozy family meal, this casserole is sure to be a hit at the table.

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Ingredients

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• 2 boxes frozen chopped spinach
• ¼ cup water
• 3 slices white bread, crusts removed, torn into pieces
• ½ cup butter (1 stick)
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1½ tsps Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ tsp garlic salt
• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)
• ½ cup coarse, fresh bread crumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400ºF.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine frozen spinach and water. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and mix in torn bread pieces, butter, celery salt, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic salt. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. For the topping, mix melted butter with fresh breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a small bowl until crumbly.
5. Lightly butter a casserole dish, transfer the spinach mixture into it, and top with the breadcrumb mixture. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (about 150g)
• Calories: 295
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 465mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 36mg