Baked Spinach Casserole brings together the goodness of fresh spinach with aromatic Indian spices in a cheesy, satisfying dish. I started making this recipe when looking for new ways to serve vegetables to my family. The spinach balls are steamed first, then baked with cheese and fresh vegetables, creating layers of texture and flavor. The overcooked rice helps bind the spinach balls together, while ginger and green chilies add a subtle heat.
About the Recipe
This recipe combines traditional Indian spicing with the comfort of a Western casserole. The spinach balls are moist and flavorful, while the cheese adds richness. I always keep the steamed balls ready in advance. Fresh vegetables provide color and crunch, making this dish visually appealing and nutritionally complete.
Why you will love this recipe
This casserole offers many textures and flavors in each bite. The spinach balls are tender and well-seasoned, while the melted cheese creates a creamy layer. Fresh vegetables add both color and crunch. It works equally well as a main dish or side. The recipe is also flexible; you can adjust the spice level and cheese quantity to your taste.
Baked Spinach Casserole
Cooking Tips
Squeeze out excess water from the spinach thoroughly to prevent soggy balls. Steam the balls until completely cooked; they should feel firm when pressed. Keep the steamed balls slightly separated while cooling to prevent sticking. For best results, bring the cheese to room temperature before baking.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 4-6 people as a main dish. Preparation takes about 45 minutes, plus 25 minutes baking time. Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 250°F oven until warmed through.
Similar Recipes
- Palak Paneer Casserole
- Cheesy Vegetable Bake
- Spinach and Rice Gratin
Nutrient Benefits
This dish provides protein from cheese, iron and vitamins A and C from spinach, and fiber from whole wheat flour. The vegetables add essential nutrients and antioxidants. Using olive oil or butter adds healthy fats. One serving offers a good balance of nutrients as part of a vegetarian meal.
Baked Spinach Casserole
Ingredients
For spinach balls:
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup overcooked cooled rice (any) any
- 1 cup wheat flour
- 1/4 cup rice flour
- 5 green chillies crushed
- 1 ″ piece ginger grated
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds crushed
- 2 tbsp oil or butter
Other ingredients:
- 1 cup cheese grated
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tomato sliced thinly
- 1 carrot grated
- 1 capsicum slice thinly
Instructions
- Wash, steam spinach for 2 minutes.
- Press out all excess water, spread in a large bowl or plate.
- Add all other ingredients for balls, make soft dough.
- Using oil or dry flour, make round pingpong ball sized rounds.
- Place balls in a perforated upper part or a steamer.
- Or, arrange in a metal colander, place this above a vessel having some water.
- Cover tightly, cook so that boiling water, will steam balls.
- Steam for 25-30 minutes, place a mortar or weight on lid, to keep steam from escaping.
- Remove balls cool.
- Crush 2-3 balls till crumbly.
- In a 5″ side casserole, arrange crumbled mixture at bottom.
- Over this spread half the cheese.
- Place remaining balls evenly over cheese.
- Garnish with carrot, capsicum, tomato, arranging attractively.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese along edges.
- Dot all over with butter.
- Cover with cling film(in microwave) or foil (in traditional oven)
- Make perforations for steam to pass.
- Bake in preheated oven at 300C for 20-25 minutes or till cheese melts.
- Remove film, serve hot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the spinach balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can steam the balls up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before assembling the casserole.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is moderate with 5 green chilies. Adjust the number of chilies based on your preference. Remove the seeds for less heat.
Can I freeze this casserole?
The assembled casserole does not freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and cheese. However, you can freeze the steamed spinach balls for up to 1 month.
Christmas Tip: Cover dish with foil or film again before serving, decorate top with mistletoe, ivy leaves and cherry tomatoes.
