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    Home » Recipes » Sides

    Creamed Spinach Casserole

    Updated: Sep 6, 2023 by Gustavo De Obaldia

    Written by Gustavo De Obaldia

    Hey there, food enthusiasts! Are you ready to level up your comfort food game? Today, we're bringing you a mouthwatering creamed spinach casserole that's not just cheesy but also 100% plant-based! Whether you've got fresh spinach from the farmer's market or a trusty bag of frozen greens, this dish is your ticket to flavor town. So grab your apron, and let's get this casserole party started!

    creamed spinach casserole with a taken portion.
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe Comments

    The dilemma? We love creamed spinach, but the classic version is a vegan no-go. Don't worry; we've got you covered! We've meticulously crafted this recipe using wholesome plant-based ingredients so you can relish this timeless favorite without missing a beat.

    So, we took two of our vegan kitchen staples, our homemade vegan parmesan and vegan bechamel sauce, and combined them with vegan mozzarella to make this heavenly dish.

    Jump to:
    • 💚 Why you will love it
    • 🧾 Ingredients
    • 🍽 Equipment
    • 🔪 Instructions
    • 💡 Expert tip
    • 🥢 How to serve
    • ❓ FAQ
    • 🥡 Storage and Meal prep
    • 📚 More Vegan Casserole Recipes
    • 📋 Recipe
    • 💬 Reviews and Comments

    💚 Why you will love it

    • Comfortingly Creamy Texture
    • Rich in Nutrients
    • Easy to Prepare
    • Deliciously Flavorful

    Lastly, versatility is the name of the game with this dish. Whether you're looking for a star player or a solid sidekick, this casserole covers you. You can serve it as a side dish or dip, whatever floats your boat.

    🧾 Ingredients

    This vegan cheesy spinach casserole is made with just a few delicious ingredients:

    labeled creamed spinach casserole ingredients.
    • Fresh baby spinach or frozen chopped spinach provides the leafy goodness and nutrients that make up the casserole's base. Spinach is high in fiber and rich in antioxidants.
    • Vegan butter adds a creamy texture and rich flavor without any animal by-products. It's a plant-based alternative that keeps the casserole moist.
    • Green onions offer a dual punch of mild and aromatic flavors. The white parts bring a subtle kick, while the green adds color and milder notes.
    • Finely chopped garlic injects a hint of pungent spice that complements the other flavors. Plus, garlic is known for its health benefits, like boosting the immune system.
    • Vegan Mozzarella cheese lends that gooey, cheesy texture we all crave. It melts beautifully and binds the ingredients together.
    • Bechamel Sauce (vegan) contributes a velvety, creamy layer to the casserole. It's the ultimate comfort food element without the dairy guilt.
    • Vegan parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty zing. It elevates the dish by providing a complex depth of flavor.
    • Ground nutmeg provides a subtle, warm spice that contrasts the savory components. It adds a pinch of unexpected complexity. Use freshly grated nutmeg if you have some.

    Optional ingredients

    • Ground black pepper and a pinch of salt help to fine-tune the seasoning. They bring out the flavors of all the other ingredients.
    • Thyme or tarragon can add an herbal twist if you're looking to jazz things up. These herbs can take the casserole from everyday to gourmet.

    Substitutions

    • Vegan Butter: Coconut oil or avocado oil can work in a pinch.
    • White and Green Onion: white or yellow onions, leeks, shallots, or even red onions could provide a tasty twist.
    • Garlic: If you're out of fresh garlic, garlic powder will do the trick.
    • Vegan Mozzarella Cheese: Vegan cheddar cheese or even vegan gouda can bring in new flavor profiles.
    • Homemade Vegan Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast is a great alternative that still brings the cheesiness.
    • Vegan Bechamel Sauce: any plant-based cream, such as almond cream, works.
    • Ground Nutmeg: A pinch of cinnamon or allspice can add a unique kick.

    🍽 Equipment

    You only need an oven-proof casserole dish and a large saucepan.

    🔪 Instructions

    Making this fantastic side dish is super straightforward.

    chop the onions, garlic, and spinach.

    Step 1: Chop the onions, garlic, and spinach.

    sauté the onions and garlic with vegan butter.

    Step 2: Sauté the onions and minced garlic with vegan butter.

    Pro tip: Want to make this dish even faster? Grab some pre-chopped frozen spinach, onions, and garlic in the grocery store. All you've got to do is toss 'em in the pot and let the oven do its magic. It's basically cooking on easy mode.

    add the spinach and stir frequently.

    Step 3: Add spinach, stirring frequently.

    let the liquid evaporate completely.

    Step 4: Let the excess liquid evaporate completely, and leave the cooked spinach dry.

    add the vegan mozzarella cheese, nutmeg, and half the vegan parmesan, along with any spice if using.

    Step 5: Let's make that creamy sauce! Gently stir in the vegan mozzarella cheese, bechamel, nutmeg, half the vegan parmesan, and any spice if using.

    stir until a creamed spinach is formed.

    Step 6: Stir until a creamed spinach is formed.

    Hint: Wanna be a kitchen minimalist and impress your guests at the same time? Use a beautiful, oven-safe skillet to go from stovetop cooking straight to baking and then directly to the table. It's a one-skillet wonder that also makes for fewer dishes and a stunning presentation. 🌟

    pour the spinach cream sauce into a baking dish.

    Step 7: Pour the creamed sauce into a baking dish.

    add vegan parmesan on top before taking the baking dish to the oven.

    Step 8: Sprinkle Vegan parmesan into the cheese sauce before taking the baking dish to the oven. You can also top it with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

    baked creamed spinach.

    Quick tip: For that Insta-worthy golden crust, flip on the oven's grill setting in the final minutes. Your casserole will go from good to "OMG, did I make that?" real quick.

    Read on: our vegan gluten-free lasagna, also made with spinach and uses zucchini layers instead of lasagna sheets.

    cheesy creamed spinach served on a table with a bowl containing vegan parmesan cheese.

    💡 Expert tip

    Want to nail this casserole every single time? The key is to let it fully chill before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld and makes cutting into neat, square portions easier, ensuring a perfect serving experience. Trust me, this little extra patience pays off big time.

    🥢 How to serve

    When it comes to serving this showstopper, the world—or at least the dining table—is your oyster. As a side dish, it'll elevate any meal, making your Thanksgiving or Christmas table the stuff of legends. But don't let tradition limit your creativity.

    Ever thought of using it as a dip sauce? Yep, grab some veggie sticks or pita bread, and you're in for a treat, just like you would dive on hummus. Plus, who says garnish can't be hearty? A dollop on top of a vegan burger or hot bowl of soup adds an extra layer of creamy, cheesy goodness.

    if you like spicy things, add red pepper flakes to the serving dish.

    So this casserole fits the bill, whether it's center stage at your holiday feasts or the star of a casual dinner. And remember, serve hot to experience it in all its glory!

    ❓ FAQ

    Why is my creamed spinach watery?

    This can happen for a couple of reasons. If you're using fresh spinach like we did in this recipe, cook it until all the liquid evaporates. Spinach releases as much moisture as it wilts, so cooking that water off is crucial.
    If you're using thawed frozen spinach, squeezing out as much liquid as possible before adding it to your dish is essential. Being mindful of these steps will ensure a creamy, not watery, finish.

    🥡 Storage and Meal prep

    Let's talk leftovers—because trust me, you'll want to savor this dish for days.

    • In the Fridge: Keep the leftover casserole in an airtight container and it'll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you're ready for round two, reheat it in the microwave or toss it back in the oven at medium-low heat until it's warmed through.
    • Freezing: Freezer-friendly alert! Store it in an airtight container or wrap it up tightly in plastic wrap. It'll last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it up in the oven.
    • Meal Prep: Yes, you can totally make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the casserole, but stop before the baking step. Keep it covered in the fridge and pop it in the oven when you're ready to feast.

    So go ahead and double the recipe if you want. Future you will thank you!

    📚 More Vegan Casserole Recipes

    • vegan vegetable casserole featured.
      Vegan Vegetable Casserole
    • butternut squash casserole featured.
      The Best Creamy Butternut Squash Casserole
    • vegan hashbrown breakfast casserole featured.
      Dairy-Free Breakfast Casserole
    • sweet potato crunch recipe featured
      Sweet Potato Crunch Casserole

    When preparing your holiday dinner, check out the sweet potato crunch and the butternut squash casserole. Both are winners on a Thanksgiving table.

    ⭐ If you try this spinach casserole recipe, let us know! 💬 Leave a comment, rate it, and don't forget to tag us @ourplantbasedworld on Instagram. Cheers!

    📋 Recipe

    cheesy creamed spinach casserole featured image.

    Creamed Spinach Casserole

    Author: Gustavo De Obaldia
    Get ready to indulge in the ultimate Creamed Spinach Casserole, now vegan-friendly! Whether you're using fresh or frozen spinach, this cheesy, creamy dish is a game-changer in comfort food.
    5 from 9 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 23 minutes mins
    Bake time 12 minutes mins
    Total Time 40 minutes mins
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American, Comfort Food, Holidays
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 244 kcal

    Equipment

    cuisine art large casserole with a lid.
    (affiliate link)
    Large saucepan (affiliate link)
    copper measuring cups and spoons.
    (affiliate link)
    measuring cups (affiliate link)
    kitchen scale.
    (affiliate link)
    kitchen scale (affiliate link)

    Ingredients
     
     

    • 26 ounces fresh spinach or two 12-ounce packages of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
    • 2 tablespoons vegan butter
    • 1 green onion large (both white and green parts chopped)
    • 5 cloves garlic finely chopped (about 4 teaspoons)
    • 10 ounce vegan mozzarella cheese
    • 2 ounces homemade vegan parmesan cheese grated (about ½ cup), divided
    • 1 cup Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe
    • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

    Optional

    • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper and a pinch of salt to adjust
    • ½ teaspoon thyme or tarragon if you're feeling fancy
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Directions
     

    • Got a skillet that's not just oven-ready but also Insta-glam? Heat up that plant-based butter on a medium flame. You'll be using this bad boy for the entire recipe. If not, no worries! Just grab a roomy saucepan, throw in the onions and garlic, and stir 'em up until they're as soft as a Drake ballad and smell like pure bliss—takes just about 5 minutes.
    • Fire Up That Oven! Preheat your oven to a sizzling 400°F (200 ºC). Make sure the rack is chilling in the top third of the oven.
    • Green Goodness! Fold in the spinach, stirring until wilted, allowing the liquid to fully evaporate on medium-high heat (6 on an electric stove). This should take 10-15 minutes.
    • Cheese Please! Dial down the heat to medium-low. Add the vegan mozzarella, bechamel, nutmeg, optional black pepper, and half of the parmesan, saving the rest for the topping. Stir up until that cheese is all melty and gooey—1 to 2 minutes, tops.
    • Ready, Set, Bake! If your skillet isn't ready for the oven, transfer the mixture to a 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining vegan Parmesan on top.
      Pop it in the oven and bake until it's golden and bubbly—7 minutes should do it, plus an extra 2-3 minutes under the grill for that perfect crust—Total baking time: 10 minutes.

    Video

    Notes

    Make Ahead
    You can whip up the spinach mixture up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in a baking dish in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, top it with some cracker crumbs and the remaining vegan Parmesan. Then, let the oven do its magic!

    Nutrition Facts

    Calories: 244kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 6gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gSodium: 746mgPotassium: 683mgFiber: 5gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10655IUVitamin C: 33mgCalcium: 204mgIron: 4mg
    Did you make this recipe?Tag @ourplantbasedworld on Instagram and Hashtag it #ourplantbasedworld so we can see what's cooking!!

    Nutritional Disclaimer

    The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice. See our full Nutritional Disclosure here.

    Affiliate Disclaimer

    Please note that some of the links here are affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through those links. I recommend all of the products listed because they are companies I have found helpful and trustworthy.

    gustavo de obaldia headshot.
    Gustavo De Obaldia
    Website |  + postsBio

    As the lead content writer and recipe developer at Our Plant-Based World, he combines his passion for health and sustainability with a Plant-Based Nutrition Certification to create accessible, delicious vegan recipes. His expertise in plant-based cooking supports the blog's mission of fostering a healthier, environmentally conscious lifestyle through simple and seasonal dishes. His commitment to making vegan cooking enjoyable and inclusive for everyone shines in each recipe and article.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      5 from 9 votes (3 ratings without comment)

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Gianne

      September 06, 2023 at 8:38 pm

      5 stars
      This was absolutely delicious! The instructions were easy to follow and the end result was a creamy and flavorful dish that everyone loved. Highly recommend trying it out!

      Reply
      • Gus

        September 07, 2023 at 2:18 am

        Hey Gianne! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

        Wow, thanks for the glowing review! We're stoked to hear that you and your crew enjoyed the creamed spinach. Isn't it amazing how something so creamy and flavorful can also be plant-based and good for you? 🌱

        If you loved this, you've gotta try our Vegan Alfredo Rose Pasta next. It's another crowd-pleaser that's super easy to whip up!

        Thanks again for the love, and keep those taste buds happy! 😋🍴

        Cheers,
        Gus & Joaco

        Reply
    2. Carrie Robinson

      September 06, 2023 at 7:54 pm

      5 stars
      This is such a great twist on traditional creamed spinach! 🙂 This would make the perfect side dish for a holiday dinner.

      Reply
    3. Andrea

      September 06, 2023 at 7:40 pm

      5 stars
      This easy, creamy, cheesy, spinach casserole was amazing. It's a perfect side dish.

      Reply
    4. Anjali

      September 06, 2023 at 6:56 pm

      5 stars
      This spinach casserole was so cheesy and comforting! It was the perfect side dish for our dinner tonight!

      Reply
    5. Jeff

      September 06, 2023 at 5:56 pm

      5 stars
      I love the step-by-step photos. They made making this easy/

      Reply
    6. Taly

      September 06, 2023 at 5:55 pm

      5 stars
      This Cheesy Creamed Spinach Casserole is an absolute delight! Plus, the easy-to-follow recipe makes it a go-to dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

      Reply

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