Spinach Madelaine

Transform your dinner table with the irresistible flavors of Spinach Madelaine, a rich and creamy baked spinach casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts. Featuring tender wilted spinach enveloped in a velvety cheddar cheese sauce spiced with cayenne and garlic powder, this Southern classic is topped with buttery breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. Ready in just under an hour, this dish combines comfort and elegance, making it an excellent side for roasted meats or a stand-alone vegetarian main. With its vibrant flavor and golden-brown crust, Spinach Madelaine is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 900 grams fresh spinach
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1.5 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 200 grams grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cups fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Thoroughly wash the spinach and remove any tough stems. Cook it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until wilted, then drain well, squeezing out excess liquid. Chop the spinach roughly and set aside.

Step 2

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

Step 5

Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring that the mixture stays smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.

Step 6

Add garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, stirring to combine. Then, stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 7

Fold the chopped spinach into the cheese sauce, making sure it’s evenly coated. If desired, stir in the hot sauce for an extra kick.

Step 8

Transfer the spinach mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 9

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of melted butter (optional) to moisten them slightly. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the spinach.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish as a side or main course!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1780.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2149.5

Total Fat 124.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 74.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.7g
Cholesterol 378.8mg	0%
Sodium 5715.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 166.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 30.1g	0%
Total Sugars 29.7g
Protein 102.3g	0%

Vitamin D 212.9IU	0%
Calcium 2911.3mg	0%
Iron 36.2mg	0%
Potassium 1147.3mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.9%

Protein: 18.7%

Carbs: 30.4%