Creamy Potato and Spinach Bake: A Comforting Family Dinner

by

A Nutritious and Delicious One-Dish Wonder

Discover the ultimate comfort food that combines the heartiness of potatoes with the nutritional powerhouse of spinach. This potato and spinach bake is about to become your family’s new favorite dinner – packed with flavor, nutrients, and pure satisfaction.

Ingredients

For the Potato Base

  • 1kg potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • Salt to taste
  • Water for boiling
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 40g butter
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 30g all-purpose flour
  • 500ml milk
  • Ground nutmeg to taste
  • 200g fresh spinach
  • Vegetable oil for greasing
  • 150g hard mozzarella cheese, grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes Peel and slice potatoes evenly. Boil in salted water until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Create the Sauce In a saucepan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and grated carrot, sautéing until fragrant.
  3. Make the Roux Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to create a smooth base.
  4. Add Milk and Seasonings Gradually pour in milk, whisking to prevent lumps. Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg.
  5. Prepare the Spinach Wash spinach and roughly chop. Add to the sauce, cooking until wilted.
  6. Assemble the Bake Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil. Layer boiled potatoes and creamy spinach sauce.
  7. Cheese Topping Sprinkle grated mozzarella over the top.
  8. Bake Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Use starchy potatoes for best texture
  • Don’t overcook potatoes during initial boiling
  • Grate cheese fresh for maximum flavor
  • Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking
  • Use a mandoline for even potato slices

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Use sweet potatoes for a different twist
  • Replace mozzarella with cheddar or gruyère
  • Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor
  • Make it vegetarian with plant-based cheese
  • Include other leafy greens like kale

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.

Q2: How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish? Best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Q4: How can I make it more protein-rich? Add cooked chicken or ham between layers.

Q5: Is this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour and check cheese ingredients.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Cool completely before storing
  • Reheat in oven to maintain crispy top
  • Cover with foil to prevent over-browning
  • Best consumed within 2-3 days
  • Can be prepared earlier in the day

Enjoy your Creamy Potato and Spinach Bake – a true family favorite!