- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×9-inch (or similar) baking dish with butter or oil.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the onion and sauté until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Prepare the Spinach Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix in the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and eggs, mixing until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy, golden topping.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving for the best texture.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serving: Enjoy warm as a side dish with roasted veggies, grilled protein, or as a filling vegetarian main dish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
Variations & Customizations
- Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly topping.
- Extra Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken or crumbled tofu to the spinach mixture.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free ricotta, coconut cream instead of sour cream, and vegan cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! Use about 6 cups fresh spinach, sauté it until wilted, and drain excess moisture before mixing.
2. What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, or Swiss all work great! A mix of cheeses adds depth of flavor.
3. How do I prevent a watery casserole?
- Make sure to drain the spinach completely by squeezing out excess water.
- Avoid adding too much sour cream or ricotta.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
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