If you’re seeking a dish that wraps you up in warmth and fills your kitchen with inviting aromas, this Cozy Spinach and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s the perfect comforting blend of tender roasted sweet potatoes layered with a creamy, savory spinach and white bean filling, finished off with a crisp, cheesy oat topping. This casserole is not only a hug on a plate for chilly January evenings but also a beautiful balance of flavors, textures, and colors that will brighten any winter meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and each plays a crucial role in making this casserole both tasty and comforting. From the natural sweetness of perfectly roasted sweet potatoes to the nourishing green spinach and creamy beans, every item brings something special to the table.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds: They provide a sweet, tender base and lovely color contrast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for roasting the sweet potatoes to a beautiful caramelized finish.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Brings out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of mild spice.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that addictive warm aroma and flavor boost.
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach (about 150 g): Brings freshness, vibrant color, and a nutrient-packed punch.
- 1 cup cooked white beans, drained: Adds creaminess and protein for a filling vegetarian twist.
- 1 cup vegetable broth: Infuses the mixture with extra savory flavor and moisture.
- ½ cup milk (or unsweetened plant milk): Helps create the silky sauce that holds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly without clumping.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a gentle smoky undertone that balances the sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth that elevates the whole dish.
- ½ cup rolled oats: Forms a lovely crunchy topping when baked.
- ¼ cup grated vegetarian parmesan: Brings savory umami and helps crisp the oat topping.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Binds the oat and cheese topping into a golden, rich crust.
How to Make Cozy Spinach and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400 °F (200 °C) to get the temperature just right for roasting. Toss the peeled and sliced sweet potato rounds with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes until they’re tender but still hold their shape. This step brings out the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes, giving them a caramelized edge that’s simply irresistible.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Spinach
While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced yellow onion until translucent, about 4 minutes. The onions soften and develop sweetness that perfectly complements the rest of the casserole. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the fresh baby spinach, letting it wilt gently over 2 minutes before removing the skillet from the heat. This mixture will become the savory base that balances the sweetness of the potatoes.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Spinach-Bean Sauce
Next, blend together the cooked white beans, vegetable broth, milk, all-purpose flour, smoked paprika, and nutmeg until completely smooth. Pour this luscious mixture into your spinach and onion skillet, then simmer gently for about 3 minutes. This thickens the sauce just right, creating a creamy yet light filling that binds the layers together with subtle warmth and a hint of smokiness.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Lightly oil an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking. Begin by layering half of the roasted sweet potato slices neatly on the bottom. Next, spoon all the creamy spinach and bean mixture over this base, spreading it evenly. Finally, arrange the remaining sweet potato slices on top to complete the layering. This arrangement not only looks beautiful but also ensures every bite has a bit of each component.
Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake
To finish, combine the rolled oats, grated vegetarian parmesan, and melted butter in a small bowl, mixing until the oats are well coated. Sprinkle this oat-cheese mixture generously over the assembled casserole. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to warm through and meld flavors. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the topping is golden, crisp, and bubbling. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set beautifully.
How to Serve Cozy Spinach and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color that brightens every bite. For some extra texture and flavor, toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze work wonders to complement the creamy, cheesy layers.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or simple roasted carrots can be a lovely accompaniment. Pair it with warm rustic bread to scoop up every last bit of that rich, creamy filling.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant dinner party plating. Alternatively, present the casserole family-style right from the baking dish for a cozy communal vibe, perfect for sharing with loved ones on a chilly evening.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover it loosely to maintain moisture and prevent the topping from drying out.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. Cover with foil to keep the topping from burning, uncovering at the end to crisp it back up. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the crisp topping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this casserole?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture that could make the casserole watery.
Is this casserole suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Simply swap the milk for your favorite plant-based milk and replace the vegetarian parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. The dish remains just as comforting and flavorful.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Diced mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or even finely chopped kale could be lovely additions to the spinach layer. Just sauté them along with the onions for the best flavor integration.
What can I use if I don’t have white beans?
Cannellini or great northern beans are ideal substitutes for their creamy texture, but any mild white bean will do. Avoid using beans with strong flavors to maintain the delicate balance of the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free oats for the topping to keep the recipe safe and just as delicious for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts
This Cozy Spinach and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of simple, nutritious ingredients brought together in a way that feels indulgent and nurturing. Perfect for chilly nights when you crave something warm and homemade, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that wonderful feeling of comfort food done right.
Print
Cozy Spinach and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cozy Spinach and Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect warm and comforting dish for chilly January evenings. It features tender roasted sweet potatoes layered with a savory spinach and white bean mixture, topped with a crispy oat and parmesan crust. Vegan-friendly options make it versatile for various diets while providing a nutritious and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable Mixture
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach (about 150 g)
- 1 cup cooked white beans, drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- ½ cup milk (or unsweetened plant milk)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Topping
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup grated vegetarian parmesan
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Roast Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Toss the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper, then spread them out evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes until they are just tender but not fully cooked.
- Sauté Aromatics and Spinach: While the potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Blend and Simmer Sauce: In a blender, combine cooked white beans, vegetable broth, milk (or plant milk), all-purpose flour, smoked paprika, and ground nutmeg. Blend until smooth. Pour this mixture back into the skillet with the spinach and simmer over medium-low heat for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly oil an 8-inch square baking dish. Layer half of the roasted sweet potato slices on the bottom, then spread the spinach-bean mixture evenly over them. Top with the remaining sweet potato slices.
- Prepare and Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, grated vegetarian parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the assembled casserole.
- Bake Covered and Uncovered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 400 °F (200 °C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling hot.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly.
Notes
- You can substitute the vegetarian parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Use unsweetened plant milk such as almond or oat milk to keep it dairy-free.
- Ensure the sweet potatoes are sliced evenly for consistent roasting.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead; reheat covered in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) until warmed through.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper before serving if needed.
