Warm, comforting, and packed with nutritious greens, this Spinach and Rice Casserole is the perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or a wholesome side dish for family gatherings. Featuring fluffy long-grain rice, tender sautéed spinach, and a savory blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, this casserole delivers rich, creamy flavor in every bite. Lightly seasoned with garlic, onion, and a hint of paprika, it’s baked to golden perfection for a satisfying texture and irresistible aroma. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a straightforward baking process, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. Serve it as a vegetarian dinner option, or pair it with your favorite protein for a balanced and filling meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, spinach mixture, beaten eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle paprika on top for garnish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Cut into portions and enjoy!
Calories |
1669 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 99.2 g | 127% | |
| Saturated Fat | 44.0 g | 220% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 748 mg | 249% | |
| Sodium | 4972 mg | 216% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 96.6 g | 35% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.9 g | 35% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.4 g | ||
| Protein | 99.3 g | 199% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.8 mcg | 29% | |
| Calcium | 2394 mg | 184% | |
| Iron | 13.9 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 881 mg | 19% | |
*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.