Creamed Spinach Casserole Recipe (Step-By-Step)

With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, this creamed spinach casserole recipe is great for busy weeknights and holiday feasts! Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s packed with creamy cheese, a crispy onion topping, and, of course, nutritious spinach.

Every holiday table deserves a creamy casserole dish, and as a vegetarian and nutritionist, I love to bring a veggie-forward one! My favorite spinach artichoke dip inspired this recipe, but I wanted it bigger and in casserole form.

What came out of this idea is a hearty and comforting casserole that’s a favorite at family gatherings and holiday feasts. It’s a true crowd-pleaser with layers of creamy spinach, melted cheese, and a crispy topping. Some readers love it with cheddar, too. Let’s cook!

here’s what you’ll need

The ingredients in this spinach casserole are easy-to-find staples! This is just an overview – jump to the recipe card for the full quantities.

• Frozen Spinach: We use frozen spinach in this recipe because it is convenient and available throughout the year. It saves time washing, chopping, and blanching fresh spinach and retains its nutritional value.
• Garlic: Fresh is always best.
• Cream Cheese: Is there anything better than creamy cheese?! For a little added protein, swap half of this with Greek yogurt.
• Gruyere Cheese: This is my secret to the best casserole! It adds a little bit of nuttiness but also melts really well.
• Parmesan Cheese: Opt for grating your own parmesan so it melts better. For strict vegetarians, look for vegetarian parmesan cheese (Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods often have it).
• Fried Onions: As a sensory food scientist, I love contrasting textures so crispy onions on top are a must. They add more flavor than just breadcrumbs alone.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These are larger than standard breadcrumbs, leading to a maximum crunch factor. To make this a gluten-free creamed spinach casserole, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Confirm that all other ingredients, including spices and condiments, are gluten-free.

How to make Spinach Casserole

This is just an overview – jump to the recipe card for the full instructions.

Step 1: Turn On The Oven
Get the oven preheated to 350℉ (176℃), so it’s hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole.

Step 2: Thaw the Spinach
Transfer the frozen spinach to a sieve or colander and run warm water over it. Thawing the spinach helps soften it and remove any excess moisture. Once thawed, squeeze out as much water as possible from the spinach.

Step 3: Saute the Garlic and Butter
Cook the garlic in the butter over medium heat. As the garlic cooks, it becomes aromatic and slightly sweet and nutty.

Step 4: Add the Cheese
Adding the cream cheese first helps it soften, making it easier to mix everything. Then add the other cheeses and stir to combine. Add the spinach last.

Step 5: Topping
Mix the topping ingredients together in a bowl, lightly crushing the onions to make them a bit smaller.

Step 6: Assemble
Once you have prepared the spinach mixture, spoon it into a casserole dish, ensuring an even distribution. Top with your crispy panko topping.

Step 7: Bake
Bake the dish until it is bubbling, and the top is golden brown. Let it cool slightly, then it’s ready to be served and enjoyed by family and friends!

Recipe tips

Customize the cheese blend: While the recipe calls for gruyere and parmesan cheese, experiment with different cheese combinations. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or other cheese that melts well. One reader loves it with cheddar cheese!

Add herbs and seasonings: For a different flavor profile, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill or sprinkle garlic powder or onion powder. Nutmeg and cayenne are also classics in spinach casserole—a little goes a long way!

Did you make this recipe? Be sure to leave a review below and tag me @liveeatlearn on Facebook or Instagram!