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Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the potatoes: Slice the peeled potatoes thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline for even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
- Cook the spinach: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Wilt the spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained before adding. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
- First layer: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Add spinach: Spread the sautéed spinach evenly over the potatoes.
- Cheese layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the spinach.
- Second potato layer: Add the remaining potatoes on top and season again with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese
- Pour the cream: Drizzle the heavy cream evenly over the layered potatoes and spinach. This helps create a creamy texture.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. For extra flavor, add a handful of grated Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Uncover and finish: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
Why This Dish Works
- Layered Flavor: The combination of seasoned potatoes, savory spinach, and melted cheese creates layers of flavor that make each bite better than the last.
- Creamy Texture: The heavy cream binds the ingredients together, resulting in a velvety, cohesive bake.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences, such as using sweet potatoes, kale instead of spinach, or adding cooked bacon or ham for extra heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete vegetarian meal.
- Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish for a hearty side dish.
- Make it a holiday favorite by preparing it as a crowd-pleasing accompaniment to turkey or ham.
Tips for Success
- Slice Evenly: Thin, uniform slices of potato ensure even cooking.
- Drain the Spinach: If using frozen spinach, press out as much liquid as possible to avoid a watery bake.
- Use a Variety of Cheeses: A mix of cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack adds depth to the flavor.
- Let it Rest: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the layers set and make slicing easier.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Bacon Spinach Bake: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the layers for a smoky, meaty twist.
- Vegan Option: Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative (like cashew cream) and use dairy-free cheese.
- Herbed Delight: Mix fresh rosemary or sage into the cream for an herby aroma and taste.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Spinach and Potato Bake is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. Its creamy, cheesy layers are guaranteed to please, while the spinach adds a welcome boost of greens. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
Try this recipe, and you’ll see why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation!
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