Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this spinach casserole stand out is the perfect blend of textures. The creamy spinach and mushroom soup base contrasts wonderfully with the crispy bread cubes on top. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, and the flavors blend beautifully. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy days or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, divided
- 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
- 2 cups cubed bread (1/2 inch)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the celery and onion, and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the thawed spinach and the can of mushroom soup.
- Transfer the mixture to a 1-1/2-quart round baking dish.
- In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the bread cubes until well coated.
- Sprinkle the buttered bread cubes over the spinach mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until bubbly and the bread cubes are golden brown.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Add cheese: You can sprinkle some grated cheddar or Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy flavor.
- Use different bread: Try using sourdough or whole wheat bread cubes for added flavor.
- Add protein: For a heartier version, you can add cooked chicken or turkey to the casserole.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. The bread topping may lose some of its crispness when reheated.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. You’ll need about 1 1/2 pounds of fresh spinach, which should be cooked down and squeezed dry before using.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with other varieties, such as cream of celery or cream of chicken, depending on your preferences.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If you’re unsure, you can insert a thermometer into the center; it should read 165°F.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it. To freeze, assemble the casserole (without baking) and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will last for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What kind of bread should I use?
You can use any bread you like. A white or whole wheat sandwich bread works best, but you can also try sourdough for extra flavor.
Is this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as you use vegetable broth or a vegetarian-friendly soup base.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free bread and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is also gluten-free.
How do I prevent the bread topping from getting too soggy?
Ensure that the bread cubes are well buttered and bake the casserole until the top is golden brown. You can also toast the bread cubes slightly before adding them to the casserole for extra crunch.
What should I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with roasted meats, like chicken or turkey, or as a side dish for holiday meals such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Conclusion
Crunchy Spinach Casserole is a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, making it a comforting side dish everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a great option for any meal, from casual dinners to special occasions. Try it today and make it your new go-to casserole!
Crunchy Spinach Casserole
This Crunchy Spinach Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy spinach with a golden, crispy bread topping. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it the perfect side dish for any gathering, holiday meal, or weeknight dinner. The combination of textures, with the tender spinach and crunchy bread, makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual family dinner, this casserole will quickly become a favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, divided
- 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
- 2 cups cubed bread (1/2 inch)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Sauté Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the celery and onion, and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes. -
Add Spinach and Soup:
Stir in the thawed spinach and the can of mushroom soup. Mix well. -
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture to a 1-1/2-quart round baking dish. -
Prepare Bread Topping:
In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the bread cubes until they are well coated with butter. -
Assemble the Casserole:
Sprinkle the buttered bread cubes over the spinach mixture in the baking dish. -
Bake the Casserole:
Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and the bread cubes are golden brown.
Notes
- Add Cheese: For an extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle some grated cheddar or Parmesan on top before baking.
- Use Different Bread: Try sourdough or whole wheat bread cubes for added flavor.
- Add Protein: To make it heartier, incorporate cooked chicken or turkey into the casserole.
