Elevate your dinner table with this rich and creamy Spinach and Beans Au Gratin, a comforting casserole that combines hearty cannellini beans and sautéed spinach, all smothered in a luscious Parmesan cheese sauce. Topped with a golden layer of breadcrumbs and gooey mozzarella cheese, this dish delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying side dish or a light vegetarian main course, this recipe comes together effortlessly with pantry staples like milk and canned beans while adding a touch of elegance with freshly grated nutmeg. Ready in just under an hour, this baked delight is perfect for cozy weeknight meals or impressing guests at dinner parties.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash and roughly chop the spinach. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the spinach, and sauté until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Add 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, the nutmeg (if using), salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cannellini beans, and the cheese sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9-inch baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and a pinch of black pepper.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the spinach and beans.
Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course.
Calories |
2442 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 128.7 g | 165% | |
| Saturated Fat | 60.9 g | 304% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 303 mg | 101% | |
| Sodium | 7403 mg | 322% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 204.0 g | 74% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 35.3 g | 126% | |
| Total Sugars | 33.2 g | ||
| Protein | 127.3 g | 255% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.5 mcg | 28% | |
| Calcium | 3001 mg | 231% | |
| Iron | 29.9 mg | 166% | |
| Potassium | 2059 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.