Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
There’s something undeniably comforting about a cheesy pasta bake. It’s the kind of dish that evokes memories of family dinners, cozy nights in, and simple, satisfying flavors. This recipe for Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole elevates the classic comfort food with the addition of fresh spinach, creating a balanced and flavorful meal that’s both delicious and relatively easy to prepare.
This casserole is a fantastic way to sneak in some extra greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor. The spinach wilts down beautifully and blends seamlessly with the creamy cheese sauce, making it appealing even to those who might typically shy away from vegetables. The combination of different cheeses adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile, while the pasta provides a hearty and satisfying base.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner option or a dish to bring to a potluck, Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s also a great make-ahead meal, as it can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious casserole. Here’s a comprehensive list:
* **Pasta:** 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape (penne, rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni work well).
* **Spinach:** 10 ounces of fresh spinach, thoroughly washed.
* **Butter:** 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter.
* **Flour:** 1/4 cup all-purpose flour.
* **Milk:** 3 cups whole milk.
* **Cream Cheese:** 4 ounces cream cheese, softened.
* **Cheddar Cheese:** 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves garlic, minced.
* **Onion:** 1/2 medium onion, chopped.
* **Nutmeg:** 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Breadcrumbs (Optional):** 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping (panko breadcrumbs work well).
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get started with the cooking process. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect casserole every time:
**1. Prepare the Pasta:**
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. This means the pasta should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to it.
* Drain the pasta well and set aside.
**2. Sauté the Vegetables:**
* While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
* Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach wilts down completely, about 3-5 minutes. You may need to add the spinach in batches if your skillet is not large enough.
* Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
**3. Make the Cheese Sauce:**
* In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
* Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
* Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
* Reduce the heat to low.
* Add the softened cream cheese and stir until it’s completely melted and incorporated into the sauce.
* Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
* Stir in the ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
**4. Combine and Assemble the Casserole:**
* Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed spinach and onion mixture. Toss to combine.
* Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and spinach mixture. Stir gently to ensure that everything is evenly coated.
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
* In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
* Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
* If desired, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese topping for added texture. Lightly spray the breadcrumbs with cooking spray. This will help the breadcrumbs brown nicely in the oven.
**5. Bake the Casserole:**
* Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
* Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and make it easier to serve.
**6. Serve and Enjoy!**
* Serve the hot and bubbly Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole as a main course or a side dish.
* Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Casserole
Here are some helpful tips and variations to customize Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole to your liking:
* **Type of Pasta:** Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes. Penne, rotini, shells, elbow macaroni, and cavatappi all work well. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
* **Cheese Variations:** The cheese combination is a key element of this casserole. While cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are classic choices, you can also try adding Gruyere, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Consider using a pre-shredded Italian cheese blend for convenience.
* **Add Protein:** To make this casserole even more substantial, consider adding some protein. Cooked chicken, ground beef, Italian sausage, or bacon are all great additions. Simply brown the meat and add it to the pasta mixture before baking.
* **Vegetable Additions:** While spinach is the star of this casserole, you can also add other vegetables to boost the nutritional value. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli would all be delicious additions. Add them along with the onion and garlic.
* **Spice It Up:** If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the top of the casserole before baking.
* **Creaminess Boost:** For an extra creamy casserole, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce. You can also use half-and-half instead of whole milk for a richer sauce.
* **Make it Ahead:** This casserole is a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few minutes to the baking time to ensure that it’s heated through.
* **Breadcrumb Topping:** For a more substantial breadcrumb topping, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and some herbs like Italian seasoning or dried oregano. This will create a crispy and flavorful crust.
* **Individual Casseroles:** For easy portioning, bake the casserole in individual ramekins instead of a large baking dish. This is also a great way to customize the ingredients for each person’s preferences.
* **Freezing Instructions:** This casserole can be frozen for later enjoyment. Allow the baked casserole to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
* **Garlic Powder/Onion Powder:** If you don’t have fresh garlic and onion, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Add it when you would normally add the fresh garlic and onion.
* **Dried Herbs:** You can add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
* **Use pre-washed spinach:** To save time, use pre-washed spinach from a bag or container.
Serving Suggestions
Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **Main Course:** Serve the casserole with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **Side Dish:** Pair the casserole with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a more substantial dinner.
* **Potluck Dish:** This casserole is perfect for potlucks, parties, and gatherings. It’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time.
* **Vegetarian Meal:** For a vegetarian meal, serve the casserole with a side of roasted vegetables or a hearty soup.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 400-500 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Protein: 20-25 grams per serving
* Fat: 20-30 grams per serving
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams per serving
*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.*
Why This Recipe Works
Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole works because it combines simple, flavorful ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and satisfying. The creamy cheese sauce, the tender pasta, and the addition of fresh spinach create a balanced and delicious dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The ability to customize the recipe with different cheeses, proteins, and vegetables makes it a versatile option for any occasion.
Most importantly, the recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. This makes it a great option for beginner cooks and busy families alike. The fact that it can be made ahead of time and frozen adds to its convenience.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a classic comfort food dish with a healthy twist. Cheryl’s Spinach and Cheesy Pasta Casserole is a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!