Looking for a delightful side dish that combines the earthiness of spinach with a rich, cheesy topping? This creamy spinach gratin is the perfect match. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough to impress your dinner guests.
Imagine tender, sautéed spinach enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, all topped with a crunchy, golden-brown cheese crust. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy greens while indulging in a little comfort food.
A Perfectly Cheesy Spinach Gratin
This spinach gratin offers a delightful combination of creamy textures and cheesy flavors.
With layers of sautéed spinach nestled within a rich béchamel sauce, each bite reveals a harmony of tastes that comforts the soul.
The golden-brown cheese topping adds an irresistible crunch, enhancing the overall experience.
Ingredients for a Comforting Side Dish
Creating this gratin requires a few simple yet essential ingredients.
Fresh spinach serves as the star, bringing both vibrant color and nutrition to the dish.
A blend of butter, flour, and milk forms the heart of the creamy béchamel, while an assortment of cheeses elevates the flavor profile.
The addition of garlic powder provides a subtle depth, while breadcrumbs contribute to the delightful crust that forms during baking.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and impressive.
The Process: From Sautéing to Baking
Begin by sautéing the spinach in butter until it wilts, infusing the kitchen with a comforting aroma.
Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the natural earthiness of the greens, setting the stage for the rich béchamel sauce that follows.
Whisk together flour and milk in the same skillet, gradually thickening the mixture to create a velvety sauce that envelopes the spinach.
Once the spinach is combined with the sauce, transfer it to a rustic baking dish, ready for its crunchy topping.
Mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle generously over the creamy layer before sliding it into a preheated oven.
Achieving the Perfect Bake
Baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes yields a gratin that’s golden and bubbling.
The sight of the crust turning crispy brings anticipation for the first bite.
Letting it cool slightly allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall enjoyment when serving.
A Dish for Any Occasion
This creamy spinach gratin stands out as a wonderful side dish for a casual dinner or an elegant gathering.
Its comforting nature pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to pasta dishes.
Serving it in a quaint baking dish adds a rustic charm that complements any dining table.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
When it comes to pairing, a light salad or crusty bread works well alongside the gratin, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.
A crisp white wine can enhance the experience, washing down the creamy notes while complementing the earthy spinach flavor.
As you serve this delightful dish, guests will surely appreciate the combination of flavors and textures that make this gratin a standout choice.
A Perfectly Cheesy Spinach Gratin
This spinach gratin is creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. With layers of sautéed spinach and a rich béchamel sauce, it marries the flavors beautifully while the cheese topping provides a delightful crunch. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or cheddar)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the Spinach: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk in the flour and cook for a minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Stir in the grated cheese and garlic powder until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Add the sautéed spinach to the béchamel sauce and mix well. Pour the mixture into a small baking dish.
- Top and Bake: In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together. Sprinkle evenly over the spinach mixture. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy spinach gratin!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g