Description
Creamy Spinach and Cottage Cheese Casserole is a smooth, cheesy, and nutritious dish that blends tender spinach with mild cottage cheese for a luscious texture. This comforting casserole is perfect as a healthy side or satisfying main course, combining wholesome ingredients with heartwarming flavors suitable for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Spinach – 10 oz (about 4 cups packed)
- Cottage Cheese – 1 ½ cups
- Eggs – 2 large, beaten
- Grated Cheese (Mozzarella or Cheddar) – 1 cup
- Onion – ½ cup, finely chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black Pepper – ½ tsp
- Nutmeg – ⅛ tsp
Optional Ingredients
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup, for topping (optional)
- Extra Cheese – for low-carb version or added richness
- Fresh Herbs (dill, thyme, basil) – 1-2 tbsp, chopped
- Red Pepper Flakes or Jalapeños – to taste (for a spicy kick)
- Cooked Chicken, Turkey, or Bacon – ½ cup, chopped (for added protein)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Wash fresh spinach thoroughly and sauté it in a pan over medium heat just until wilted. This removes excess moisture and intensifies the flavor while keeping the texture tender.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cottage cheese, beaten eggs, finely chopped onion and garlic, and your choice of seasonings including salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir gently to create a smooth mixture that’s well blended but not overly whipped.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the top for a bubbly, golden finish once baked. Add breadcrumbs if you desire a crispy crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is set. Let it rest briefly after baking to allow the flavors to settle beautifully.
Notes
- Drain Spinach Well: Excess water can make the casserole watery, so squeeze out all moisture before mixing.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps the casserole bake evenly and prevents cracking.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold ingredients together to keep the texture light and creamy.
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh leaves provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
- Customize the Cheese Blend: Combining different cheeses like parmesan and mozzarella adds complexity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg