Here's a recipe for Potato Casserole with Spinach and Cheese—a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect as a side or main course.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. You can use a mandolin for uniform slices.
3. Cook the spinach:
- In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated. Set aside.
4. Make the cheese sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream (if using), continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with dried thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble the casserole:
- In a greased baking dish (about 9x13 inches), layer half of the sliced potatoes.
- Spread the cooked spinach evenly over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the spinach.
- Add the remaining potato slices on top and pour the remaining cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips:
- For added texture, you can mix some breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle them on top before baking.
- If you like a bit more flavor, you can add some cooked bacon or ham to the layers.
This Potato Casserole with Spinach and Cheese is a creamy and satisfying dish that makes a great addition to any meal. Enjoy!
