Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Spinach dish is a deliciously easy way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. The creamy cheese sauce elevates the spinach, making it flavorful and satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients, and it’s rich without being overly heavy. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or using it as a dip, the combination of spinach and cheese will make your taste buds happy.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook until the spinach is wilted and tender, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the cream to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
Lower the heat and add both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir constantly until the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add a pinch of nutmeg if desired for extra flavor.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish. Preparation and cooking time is approximately 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and easy addition to any meal.

Variations

Add bacon: For a savory twist, crumble crispy bacon into the cheesy spinach mixture.
Use different cheeses: You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Make it lighter: Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative for a lighter version.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to bring a little heat to the dish.
Add mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms pair beautifully with spinach and cheese, making a delicious addition to this dish.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Place any leftover cheesy spinach in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Reheat the cheesy spinach in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or milk if the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly before using it in the recipe to prevent excess water in the dish.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheesy spinach ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before serving.

3. Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, Cheesy Spinach is vegetarian, making it a great option for those who follow a plant-based diet.

4. Can I use low-fat cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cheese, but the texture and richness may not be the same as when using full-fat cheese.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the cheesy spinach?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, artichokes, or even roasted red peppers can be added to this dish for added flavor and texture.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to give it some heat.

7. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using plant-based cheeses and dairy alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk.

8. What can I serve with Cheesy Spinach?

Cheesy Spinach pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a topping for baked potatoes. You could also serve it alongside pasta for a comforting, filling meal.

9. How can I make this dish more filling?

For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even quinoa to the cheesy spinach mixture.

10. Can I freeze Cheesy Spinach?

It’s not ideal to freeze cheesy spinach as the texture of the cheese and spinach may change upon thawing. However, if you must freeze it, store it in an airtight container and reheat gently.

Conclusion

Cheesy Spinach is a delicious, creamy dish that brings together the earthy flavor of spinach with the richness of melted cheese. Quick to make and perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for cheese lovers and veggie fans alike. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s a comforting and satisfying addition to your meal.