Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together creamy spinach, crispy bread crumbs, and rich Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or any family dinner. It pairs beautifully with beef or lamb, making it a versatile addition to your table. The unique combination of flavors and textures in this casserole will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this casserole without hassle.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spinach, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce creates a savory dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this casserole fits right in.
• Creamy and Crispy Texture: Enjoy the contrast of creamy spinach beneath a golden brown topping that adds crunch to every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Spinach Rockefeller Casserole, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Small bowl
• Food processor (optional)
• Casserole dish
• Spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the spinach thoroughly without losing moisture.
• Casserole dish: Ensures even cooking and allows for a beautiful presentation when serving.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the Spinach Rockefeller Casserole:

For the Casserole

• 2 boxes frozen chopped spinach
• ¼ cup water
• 3 slices white bread, crusts removed, torn into pieces
• ½ cup butter (1 stick)
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1½ tsps Worcestershire sauce (~ or as my grandmother and mom say, Lea & Perrins)
• ¼ tsp garlic salt

For the Topping

• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• ½ cup coarse, fresh bread crumbs (~ I made mine with white bread in the food processor)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that golden-brown top.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach

In a medium saucepan:
1. Add the frozen chopped spinach and ¼ cup of water.
2. Cover with a lid and cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Stir frequently to break up the spinach as it cooks. Remember not to drain any water.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the spinach is cooked:
1. Add the torn bread pieces, butter, celery salt, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic salt.
2. Stir until everything combines well and the butter melts.
3. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes while stirring frequently.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Combine melted butter with bread crumbs and grated Parmesan using a fork.
2. Mix until crumbly.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Lightly butter a small round casserole dish.
2. Transfer the spinach mixture into the casserole dish and smooth out the top.
3. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the spinach mixture.
4. Bake in the center of your preheated oven for about 15 minutes until it is browned and bubbly.

Enjoy your delicious Spinach Rockefeller Casserole as a side dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a delightful dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, consider these serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Grilled Meats

• Beef Tenderloin – The rich flavors of beef tenderloin complement the creamy spinach casserole beautifully.
• Lamb Chops – Tender lamb chops offer a savory contrast to the casserole’s creaminess.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Roast Turkey – This dish adds a deliciously creamy side to your holiday turkey spread.
• Glazed Ham – The sweetness of glazed ham contrasts well with the savory spinach flavors.

As a Standalone Dish

• Side Salad – A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the casserole and add crunch.
• Garlic Bread – Serve with toasted garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

To ensure your Spinach Rockefeller Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for better flavor.
• Don’t Drain the Spinach Water – Retaining the water helps keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
• Customize Seasoning – Feel free to adjust seasonings like celery salt and Worcestershire sauce according to your taste preferences.
• Achieve a Crispy Top – Broil the casserole for an additional minute after baking for an extra crispy topping.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking makes it easier to serve and enhances flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Spinach Rockefeller Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes provide a satisfying crunch and pair well with creamy textures.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds a healthy component and complements the richness of the casserole.
3. Steamed Asparagus – Bright green asparagus offers freshness and color, making your plate visually appealing.
4. Caramelized Carrots – Sweet caramelized carrots add sweetness that balances out savory flavors.
5. Caesar Salad – The crispness of romaine lettuce and tangy dressing brings brightness to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser and adds a fun, festive touch to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Spinach Rockefeller Casserole can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch for.

• Using too much water: Adding excess water to the spinach can make the casserole watery. Always cook down the spinach until most of the liquid evaporates before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Not seasoning adequately: Some may skip seasoning, leading to bland flavors. Make sure to use celery salt and garlic salt as suggested in the recipe for a well-rounded taste.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Baking for too long can result in a dry topping while underbaking might leave it gooey. Aim for the recommended 15 minutes at 400ºF for optimal results.
• Skipping the butter in the topping: The topping needs butter for that crispy texture. Don’t forget to mix melted butter into your bread crumbs and Parmesan for the best crunch.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality bread or cheese can affect flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to elevate your Spinach Rockefeller Casserole.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

• Freeze in an airtight freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring frequently until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spinach Rockefeller Casserole?

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a creamy, baked dish made with spinach, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, inspired by the classic Oysters Rockefeller recipe.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes! You can substitute fresh spinach. Just sauté it down with a bit of water until wilted before adding it to your casserole mixture.

How can I customize this Spinach Rockefeller Casserole?

Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked bacon, artichokes, or even different cheeses like mozzarella for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator before baking when ready to serve.

What pairs well with Spinach Rockefeller Casserole?

This dish goes wonderfully with beef or lamb dishes, making it a great side for holiday meals or family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

My Grandmother’s Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy texture and crispy topping make it an appealing side dish that complements many main courses. Don’t hesitate to try variations by adding your favorite ingredients!

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Spinach Rockefeller Casserole

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Spinach Rockefeller Casserole is a creamy and flavorful side dish that combines rich spinach, savory garlic, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for holiday celebrations or family dinners, this casserole pairs beautifully with beef, lamb, or roasted turkey. The delightful contrast between the smooth spinach and crunchy topping will have your guests coming back for seconds. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this recipe is a must-have for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boxes frozen chopped spinach
• ¼ cup water
• 3 slices white bread (crusts removed)
• ½ cup butter (1 stick)
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1½ tsps Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ tsp garlic salt
• 2 tbsp butter (for topping)
• ½ cup coarse bread crumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400ºF.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine frozen spinach and water. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
3. Stir in torn bread, butter, celery salt, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic salt. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
4. For the topping, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a small bowl.
5. Lightly grease a casserole dish, pour in the spinach mixture, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approx. 150g)
• Calories: 246
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 505mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 43mg

Keywords: Using fresh spinach enhances flavor. Retain moisture by not draining the cooked spinach. Customize by adding cooked bacon or various cheeses as desired.