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How to Make Baked Spinach and Mushroom
This baked spinach and mushroom dish is simple to prepare and comes together quickly. Here’s how you can make it:
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Gently wipe them with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice the mushrooms into thin pieces so they cook evenly.
Next, wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit. If you’re using mature spinach, remove the tough stems. You’ll need about 4-5 cups of fresh spinach, which will shrink down as it cooks.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they release their moisture and become soft. Add the garlic (either minced or finely chopped) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant.
3. Cook the Spinach
Add the spinach to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down completely. Stir occasionally to ensure the spinach cooks evenly. Once the spinach has wilted, season with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like (such as a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat).
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Mix in the Cream Cheese and Parmesan
Once the spinach and mushroom mixture has cooled a bit, stir in the cream cheese (or ricotta cheese) and parmesan cheese. You want the mixture to become creamy, so feel free to add a little more cream cheese if needed. Make sure everything is well-combined.
5. Transfer to a Baking Dish
Transfer the spinach and mushroom mixture into a greased baking dish (about 9×9 inches or a similar size). Spread it out evenly to cover the bottom of the dish.
6. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the top of the mixture with bread crumbs and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a crispy, golden crust when baked.
7. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the dish is bubbling around the edges. If you want an extra crispy topping, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes (just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning).
8. Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, with a crisp green salad or as a side to your main entrée.
Tips for Perfect Baked Spinach and Mushroom
- Drain the Spinach: If you’re using fresh spinach, make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the cream cheese and parmesan. Too much liquid will make the dish soggy.
- Try Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can substitute ricotta, goat cheese, or even mascarpone for a different flavor.
- Make It Vegan: To make this dish vegan, you can use vegan cream cheese, nutritional yeast in place of parmesan, and gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu to the filling before baking.
Variations to Try
- Spinach and Mushroom Quiche: Use this filling in a pie crust and bake it as a savory quiche for a delicious brunch or lunch option.
- Spinach and Mushroom Casserole: Add cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini) to the spinach and mushroom mixture to make a comforting baked casserole.
- Add Other Vegetables: You can throw in other veggies, such as chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or leeks, for added flavor and color.
- Spicy Spinach and Mushroom: Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder for a bit of heat.
Conclusion
Baked Spinach and Mushroom is a quick, easy, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or as the main event, it’s a flavorful way to get in your greens without sacrificing taste. The combination of earthy mushrooms, tender spinach, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping makes this recipe a winner every time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to your liking, so you can make it your own!
Give it a try and enjoy this hearty, delicious dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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