Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole

Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2-4 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

This Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole is a delicious and creamy dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with spinach, artichoke hearts, and mushrooms, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The combination of spinach and artichokes has been a popular one in the culinary world for many years. This recipe takes that classic flavor combination and turns it into a comforting and satisfying casserole that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 tbsp butter
1 (8 oz (227 g)) package fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1 tbsp lemon juice
0.5 tsp pepper
2 (10 oz (283 g)) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 (14 oz (397 g)) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 (10.75 oz (305 g)) can reduced-fat, reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup
1 (8 oz (227 g)) container reduced-fat sour cream
3 green onions, chopped
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
0.25 tsp worcestershire sauce
2 cup (8 oz (227 g)) shredded monterey jack cheese with peppers

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the mushrooms and the next 3 ingredients, sauté for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, drain the spinach well, pressing between layers of paper towels.
Stir together the spinach and the next 7 ingredients in a bowl.
Stir the mushroom mixture into the spinach mixture.
Add 1 cup of cheese, stirring well.
Spoon the mixture into a 4 qt (3.78 liter) slow cooker.
Sprinkle with the remaining cup of cheese.
Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and drain it well before using it in the recipe.

- Sautéing the mushrooms with garlic and lemon juice adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

- Be sure to stir the ingredients well to ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as a side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish.

Cooking Techniques

This casserole is cooked in a slow cooker, which allows the flavors to meld together slowly over time.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen, just be sure to cook it down before adding it to the casserole.

- If you don't have reduced-cream of mushroom soup, you can use regular cream of mushroom soup.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation, or top it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This casserole is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, cheese, sour cream) and wheat (flour).

Summary

This Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with spinach, artichoke hearts, and mushrooms, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a picture of a steaming hot Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole caught my eye. The golden bubbly cheese, the creamy spinach and artichokes, it all looked so comforting and delicious. I knew I had to try making it.

I had always been passionate about cooking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own mother and grandmother in the kitchen. They were both amazing cooks, and I learned so much from them over the years. They taught me the importance of using fresh ingredients, of taking your time to let flavors develop, and of cooking with love.

As I read through the recipe for the Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole, I could almost taste it in my mind. The combination of spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and Parmesan sounded like a match made in heaven. I made a list of the ingredients I needed and headed to the grocery store the next day.

I gathered up all the ingredients and started prepping for the casserole. I chopped up the spinach and artichokes, grated the Parmesan, and mixed everything together with the cream cheese. I seasoned it all with some garlic, salt, and pepper, and poured it into my trusty old crockpot.

As the casserole cooked, the aroma wafted through the house, making my mouth water. I couldn't wait to dig in. Finally, after a few hours, it was ready. I served myself a generous portion, along with some crusty bread and a glass of wine.

The first bite was like a revelation. The creamy, cheesy goodness of the casserole, the earthy spinach and tangy artichokes, it was all so perfect. I knew I had stumbled upon a true gem of a recipe.

I shared the casserole with my family and friends, and they all raved about it. They couldn't believe how simple and delicious it was. I knew I had to keep this recipe in my arsenal, to pull out on special occasions or just when I needed a little comfort food.

Over the years, I've made the Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole countless times. It has become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that never fails to impress. I've tweaked the recipe here and there, adding some extra herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. But the basic elements remain the same, and they always deliver.

I've shared the recipe with many people, passing it down just like my own grandmother did with me. Each time I make the casserole, I think of her and the love she poured into her cooking. I know that she would be proud to see me carrying on the tradition, creating delicious meals for my own family and friends.

As I sit here now, writing this story and reminiscing about the first time I made the Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole, I can't help but smile. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express myself and show love to those around me. And this recipe, with its rich flavors and comforting warmth, is a true testament to that. It's a dish that brings people together, that creates memories and connections that last a lifetime.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a hearty, delicious meal that will warm your soul, look no further than the Crockpot Spinach-Artichoke Casserole. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time, a true classic that never fails to satisfy. And who knows, maybe one day, you'll pass it down to someone you love, just like I did.