Spinach Madeline
Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful, Spinach Madeline is the ultimate comfort food side dish that's perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any special occasion. This Southern-inspired classic features a rich blend of Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and spicy jalapeño cheese, combined with tender spinach in a velvety, seasoned cream sauce. A touch of garlic powder and cayenne pepper adds depth and a gentle kick, while an optional golden breadcrumb topping delivers a delightful crunch. Ready in just 45 minutes, this baked spinach casserole is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as a vegetarian main course. Savor the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness with every comforting bite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 0.5 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 16 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 cup jalapeño or pepper jack cheese, shredded (for a spicy kick)
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for breadcrumbs, optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
Gradually pour in the evaporated milk and broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheeses (Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and jalapeño cheese). Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the drained spinach to the cheese mixture and mix well to combine.
Season with garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Transfer the spinach mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
If you'd like a breadcrumb topping, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle over the spinach mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2051 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 139.5 g | 179% | |
| Saturated Fat | 82.0 g | 410% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 387 mg | 129% | |
| Sodium | 4296 mg | 187% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 120.8 g | 44% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.2 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 40.3 g | ||
| Protein | 99.2 g | 198% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.4 mcg | 32% | |
| Calcium | 3085 mg | 237% | |
| Iron | 12.1 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 3455 mg | 74% | |
*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.
