Crunchy Spinach Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This crunchy spinach casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make side dish that combines creamy spinach with a crispy buttery bread topping. Perfect for family dinners or holiday meals, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, divided
• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
• 2 cups cubed bread (1/2 inch)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped celery and onion, cooking and stirring until they become tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the thawed and well-drained spinach along with the undiluted cream of mushroom soup until well combined.
2. Step 2: Transfer the spinach mixture to a 1 1/2-quart round baking dish. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and stir them until they are evenly coated with butter. Sprinkle the buttered bread cubes evenly over the top of the spinach mixture. Bake in the preheated oven until the casserole is bubbling and the bread cubes turn golden brown, about 35 to 40 minutes.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of black pepper to the spinach mixture before baking.
• Use whole wheat or sourdough bread cubes to add a nutty depth to the topping.
• Try adding shredded cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan before topping for a cheesy twist.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through or place the casserole back in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to restore crispness to the topping.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Use about 1 pound, cooked down and well drained. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent a watery casserole.

Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

This casserole can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Crunchy Spinach Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 145 reviews

This Crunchy Spinach Casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish featuring tender sautéed spinach and celery baked with a savory mushroom soup base, topped with golden, buttery bread cubes for a delightful crunch. Perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Spinach Mixture

• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted

Topping

• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cups cubed bread (1/2 inch cubes)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped celery and onion, cooking and stirring until the vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Combine Spinach and Soup: Stir the thawed and well-drained chopped spinach and the undiluted cream of mushroom soup into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables until evenly mixed.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the spinach mixture into a 1-1/2-quart round baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform cooking.
5. Prepare Topping: In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in the bread cubes until they are well coated with butter.
6. Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttered bread cubes evenly over the top of the spinach mixture in the baking dish.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the bread cubes on top are golden brown and crunchy.

Notes

• Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess water from the thawed spinach to prevent a watery casserole.
• You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with a homemade cream sauce for a fresher flavor.
• Use stale or day-old bread cubes to achieve a better crunch on top.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute bread cubes with gluten-free bread.
• This dish pairs well with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main with added cheese or protein.

Keywords: Spinach casserole, creamy spinach side dish, baked spinach, mushroom soup casserole, crunchy bread topping