Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of creamy spinach, crispy bread crumbs, and savory Parmesan cheese. This casserole is an excellent choice for holidays or family gatherings, serving as a perfect side dish to complement beef or lamb. With its warm and inviting texture, it stands out as a comforting classic that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this casserole comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy cooks.
• Flavorful: The combination of spinach, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich flavor profile that enhances any meal.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfectly pairs with various main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and crispy topping make it a hit at gatherings and holiday dinners.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish in advance and bake it just before serving for convenience.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes the cooking process smoother. Below are essential items you’ll need to create this delicious casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Small bowl
• Fork
• Small round casserole dish
• Food processor (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the spinach evenly without losing moisture.
• Small bowl: Useful for mixing the topping ingredients without mess.
• Food processor: Makes creating fresh bread crumbs quick and effortless.

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 to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach

In a medium saucepan:
1. Cook frozen spinach in ¼ cup water with the lid on.
2. Stir frequently to break up the spinach as it cooks for about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Do NOT drain the water after cooking.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add to the cooked spinach:
1. Tear in the bread pieces.
2. Add butter, celery salt, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic salt.
3. Stir thoroughly until combined and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Combine melted butter with bread crumbs and Parmesan using a fork until you achieve a crumbly texture.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Lightly butter a small round casserole dish.
2. Place the spinach mixture into the dish and smooth out the top.
3. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the spinach.
4. Bake in the center of your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it is browned and bubbly.

Enjoy your Spinach Rockefeller Casserole as a delicious side dish that will bring joy to your dining table!

How to Serve Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a delightful dish that pairs well with many meals. This creamy and crispy casserole can enhance your dining experience, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday family dinners.

Pair with Beef Dishes

• Roast Beef – The rich flavors of roast beef complement the creamy spinach nicely.
• Grilled Steak – A juicy grilled steak alongside the casserole creates a satisfying meal.

Serve with Lamb

• Lamb Chops – The tender lamb chops provide a savory contrast to the casserole.
• Braised Lamb Shanks – Slow-cooked lamb shanks make for a hearty pairing.

Add Some Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch to balance the creaminess.
• Caesar Salad – The crunchiness of romaine and croutons pairs beautifully with the casserole.

Include Bread Options

• Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread can be a delicious side that complements the flavors.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up the spinach mixture.

How to Perfect Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

To achieve the best results with your Spinach Rockefeller Casserole, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly season – Adjust seasoning to your taste; consider adding more garlic salt or pepper for extra flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients – Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter taste and texture.
• Adjust the topping – Experiment with different types of cheese in the breadcrumb topping for varied flavors.
• Baking dish matters – Use a shallow baking dish to ensure an even crisp on top while keeping the inside creamy.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

If you’re looking to create a complete meal around your Spinach Rockefeller Casserole, here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add comfort and richness.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides freshness and crunch.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with vegetables brings a healthy balance to the meal.
4. Herb Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the casserole well.
5. Sweet Potato Wedges – Oven-baked sweet potato wedges offer sweetness and added nutrition.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli enhances color and nutrients on your plate.
7. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser.
8. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances the rich casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Spinach Rockefeller Casserole, avoid these common mistakes to ensure the best results.

• Not thawing spinach properly: Always make sure to thaw your frozen spinach completely before cooking. This helps in even cooking and prevents excess moisture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key! Don’t skip on flavors like celery salt or garlic salt; they elevate the dish significantly.
• Using stale bread: Fresh bread pieces are essential for a tasty topping. Stale bread won’t provide the right texture or flavor in your casserole.
• Overbaking the casserole: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry dish instead of a creamy delight.
• Skipping the butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to your Spinach Rockefeller Casserole. Don’t cut back on it; use the recommended amount for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and bake covered for about 20 minutes, then uncover and bake until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Spinach Rockefeller Casserole.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it until wilted, then follow the recipe as usual.

What can I serve with Spinach Rockefeller Casserole?

This casserole pairs beautifully with beef or lamb dishes, making it perfect for special occasions.

How do I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Simply omit Worcestershire sauce or substitute it with a vegetarian-friendly version available in stores.

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different cheeses or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

The Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a delightful dish that combines creamy spinach with a crispy topping. Its versatility makes it an excellent side for any meal, especially during holidays. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together savory spinach and a crispy breadcrumb topping. This delightful casserole is perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals, complementing a variety of main courses like beef or lamb.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boxes frozen chopped spinach
• ¼ cup water
• 3 slices white bread (crusts removed)
• ½ cup butter (1 stick + 2 tbsp melted)
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1½ tsps fruit juice or vinegar (in place of Worcestershire sauce)
• ¼ tsp garlic salt
• ½ cup coarse fresh bread crumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400ºF.
2. In a medium saucepan, cook the frozen spinach with water for about 10 to 15 minutes until tender. Do not drain.
3. Stir in torn bread pieces, butter, celery salt, fruit juice or vinegar, and garlic salt; simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs and Parmesan until crumbly.
5. Butter a small round casserole dish, spread the spinach mixture evenly, and top with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 245
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg