Creamy Spinach & Cheese Casserole
Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach casserole that’s perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners. Packed with nutrient-rich spinach and a blend of delicious cheeses, this dish offers a rich, comforting flavor that everyone will adore. Simply combine the ingredients in a mixing bowl, let your crockpot work its magic, and by the end of the cooking time, you’ll have a warm and satisfying casserole ready to serve. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy a nutritious meal that fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle!
8
Servings
200
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen Spinach
20 ounces (thawed, chopped, and drained)
Cottage Cheese
2 cups
Butter
1/2 cup (cut into chunks)
American Cheese
3/4 cup (cubed)
Parmesan Cheese
3/4 cup (grated)
Eggs
3 (beaten)
All-Purpose Flour
1/4 cup
Salt
1 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed, chopped, and drained spinach with cottage cheese, butter, American cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, flour, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
2
Grease the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
3
Pour the spinach mixture into the prepared crockpot, spreading it evenly.
4
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to high heat for 1 hour.
5
After 1 hour, reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for an additional 4 to 5 hours or until the casserole is set and slightly golden on top.
6
Once done, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
11.8g
Fat
7.4g
Carbs
12.9g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Spinach & Cheese Casserole?
It is a nutrient-rich, comforting dish made with spinach and a blend of three cheeses, slow-cooked in a crockpot until set and golden.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 8 servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prepping.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include frozen spinach, cottage cheese, butter, American cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, and salt.
Do I need to thaw the spinach before cooking?
Yes, the 20 ounces of frozen spinach should be thawed, chopped, and thoroughly drained before mixing with other ingredients.
What is the total cooking time in the crockpot?
The total cooking time is between 5 and 6 hours: 1 hour on high heat followed by 4 to 5 hours on low heat.
Is this spinach casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is classified as vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
This casserole provides 12.9 grams of protein per serving.
What types of cheese are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for a blend of cottage cheese, American cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
How should the American cheese be prepared?
The American cheese should be cubed into small pieces to ensure it melts evenly throughout the casserole.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
While the recipe specifies frozen, you can use fresh spinach if you cook it down and drain the excess moisture first.
What is the purpose of adding flour to the mix?
All-purpose flour acts as a binding agent to help the casserole set and maintain its structure during the slow cooking process.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 11.8 grams of fat in each serving of this casserole.
How many carbohydrates are per serving?
Each serving contains 7.4 grams of carbohydrates.
Do I need to grease the crockpot?
Yes, you should grease the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or butter to prevent the cheese and eggs from sticking.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
You will need 3 eggs, which should be beaten before being added to the mixture.
How do I know when the casserole is finished cooking?
The casserole is ready when it is set (not jiggly in the center) and the top is slightly golden.
Should the butter be melted before mixing?
The recipe suggests cutting the butter into chunks; it will melt naturally during the long cooking process in the crockpot.
Can I leave the crockpot on high for the whole duration?
It is recommended to switch to low after the first hour to prevent the edges from burning and to ensure a creamy texture.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe does not include any added sugars.
What category of food does this recipe fall into?
This dish is categorized as a vegetarian casserole and falls under comfort food and healthy family meals.
Can I add other spices to the recipe?
Yes, while the recipe only calls for salt, you can add black pepper, garlic powder, or nutmeg for extra flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead?
Yes, you can bake it in a greased casserole dish at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 35-45 minutes until set.
Is there a lot of fiber in this dish?
The exact fiber content is not specified, but spinach is generally a good source of dietary fiber.
What should I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with roasted chicken, a light side salad, or crusty artisan bread.
Why is it important to drain the spinach well?
Draining the spinach prevents the casserole from becoming too watery or soggy during the slow-cooking process.
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, low-fat cottage cheese can be used, though the final result might be slightly less creamy than with full-fat versions.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The recipe as written contains all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free unless you substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend.
How long should the casserole cool before serving?
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after turning off the crockpot to help it firm up for easier serving.