Fluffy, golden, and irresistibly savory, Spinach Spoonbread is the ultimate comfort food with a sophisticated twist. This Southern-inspired dish combines a creamy cornmeal base with fresh spinach, rich cheddar cheese, and airy whipped egg whites for a perfectly light and tender texture. Packed with wholesome ingredients, itβs an easy-to-make side dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether served alongside roasted meats or enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian star, this spoonable delight delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience topped with just the right touch of peppery flavor. Ready in under an hour, Spinach Spoonbread is your go-to recipe for impressing guests or elevating weeknight dinners.
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and generously grease a 9-inch baking dish or casserole with butter.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cornmeal and stir constantly for 1 minute to toast slightly.
Gradually pour in the milk and water while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the salt and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture has thickened to the consistency of porridge (about 5 minutes).
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped spinach until wilted. Then, mix in the cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks and baking powder together. Stir the egg yolk mixture into the slightly cooled cornmeal mixture.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cornmeal and spinach mixture, being careful not to deflate them.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle black pepper evenly over the surface.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown on top.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon directly from the dish to enjoy the creamy texture along with its lightly crisp top.
Calories |
1757 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 101.1 g | 130% | |
| Saturated Fat | 58.9 g | 294% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 288 mg | 96% | |
| Sodium | 4054 mg | 176% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 156.8 g | 57% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.4 g | 55% | |
| Total Sugars | 26.0 g | ||
| Protein | 71.8 g | 144% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.0 mcg | 30% | |
| Calcium | 1630 mg | 125% | |
| Iron | 10.1 mg | 56% | |
| Potassium | 2285 mg | 49% | |
*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.