Spinach Gratin is a baked spinach dish layered with a creamy béchamel sauce, Parmesan cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Ina Garten’s version elevates this classic with simple yet bold flavors, making it a must-have on your table.
Author:Anabelle Mclean
Prep Time:20
Cook Time:25
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4
Category:Side Dish
Method:Baking and Sautéing
Cuisine:French
Ingredients
Fresh spinach – 5 pounds, cleaned and trimmed (or 3 (10-ounce) packages of frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp
Yellow onion – 1 large, finely chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
All-purpose flour – 4 tbsp
Whole milk – 2 cups, warmed
Heavy cream – ½ cup
Nutmeg – ¼ tsp (optional)
Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
Gruyère cheese – ½ cup, grated
Breadcrumbs – ½ cup (panko preferred for extra crunch)
Salt – 1 ½ tsp (or to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper – to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Spinach:
If using fresh spinach, blanch it in boiling salted water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Drain thoroughly, squeezing out excess water, and chop finely.
If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out any excess moisture.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Make the Béchamel Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and is smooth about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the nutmeg, Parmesan, Gruyère, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combine with Spinach:
Fold the chopped spinach into the béchamel sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Assemble the Gratin:
Transfer the spinach mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Bake the Gratin:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the gratin is bubbling around the edges.
Serve Hot:
Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish to roasted meats or fish.