Greens Casserole with Mozzarella

Greens Casserole with Mozzarella Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Greens Casserole with Mozzarella is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of collard greens with the creamy richness of cheese. This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special holiday meal.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Southern collard greens, which are often cooked with bacon or ham hocks for added flavor. By adding a cheesy sauce and baking the greens in a casserole dish, this recipe brings a new level of comfort and indulgence to a classic dish.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of collard greens, washed and trimmed
1 tsp of salt
1 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
1 cup of chicken broth
1 cup of half and half
4 tbsp of butter
0.25 cup of flour
0.5 cup of grated parmesan cheese
0.5 cup of ricotta cheese
3 tbsp of dry bread crumbs
2 oz (57 g) of shredded mozzarella cheese

How to prepare

Butter a medium baking dish and preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Cut out and discard the tough stems from the greens.
Cut out the thick center ribs.
Rinse all the greens and shake off any excess water, then chop them into pieces.
In a large skillet, cook the greens over low heat, adding them by handfuls and stirring them down as they wilt.
If the greens seem dry, add 0.5 cup of water, then cover the skillet and braise for 15 minutes.
Pour off any liquid left in the skillet and season the greens with salt and pepper.
Transfer the greens to a bowl and set aside.
Heat the broth and half and half in a saucepan just until bubbles form around the edge of the pan.
In the large skillet, melt the butter over low heat.
Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for one minute.
Add the hot broth mixture all at once and stir over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Whisk in the grated Parmesan and ricotta.
Stir the greens into the cheese sauce and pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle with bread crumbs and grated mozzarella over the top.
Bake for 20 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham to the casserole for a smoky flavor.
Substitute kale or Swiss chard for the collard greens for a different twist.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyere, in the sauce for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to thoroughly wash and trim the collard greens before cooking to remove any dirt or grit.

- Braising the greens in a skillet before adding them to the cheese sauce helps to soften them and infuse them with flavor.

- Using a combination of Parmesan and ricotta cheeses adds depth and creaminess to the dish.

- Sprinkling bread crumbs and shredded mozzarella on top of the casserole before baking creates a crispy, cheesy crust.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Greens Casserole with Mozzarella as a side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also pairs well with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette.

Cooking Techniques

Braising the collard greens before adding them to the cheese sauce helps to soften them and develop their flavor. Be sure to cook the greens over low heat to prevent them from becoming too tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have collard greens, you can use kale, Swiss chard, or spinach instead. You can also substitute different types of cheese in the sauce, depending on your preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Greens Casserole with Mozzarella in a decorative baking dish for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Greens Casserole with Mozzarella can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Greens Casserole with Mozzarella contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Greens Casserole with Mozzarella contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Greens Casserole with Mozzarella contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Greens Casserole with Mozzarella contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Collard greens are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and half and half) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Greens Casserole with Mozzarella is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Greens Casserole with Mozzarella is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of collard greens with the richness of cheese. Whether you're looking for a side dish for a special meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to please. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Greens Casserole with Mozzarella. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in the countryside for the summer. My aunt was known for her delicious and hearty meals, and I always looked forward to spending time in her kitchen, watching her cook with such skill and passion.

One day, as I was helping her gather ingredients for dinner, she pulled out a worn and weathered cookbook from the shelf. She flipped through the pages, searching for a particular recipe that she had been wanting to try. And there it was - Greens Casserole with Mozzarella. The ingredients were simple - fresh greens, onions, garlic, herbs, and of course, plenty of gooey mozzarella cheese.

As my aunt began to chop and sauté the ingredients, the enticing aroma filled the kitchen. I watched in awe as she expertly layered the greens and cheese in a baking dish, then popped it into the oven to bake to perfection. As the casserole bubbled and browned, I could hardly contain my excitement.

When it was finally time to eat, I eagerly dug into a steaming hot serving of the casserole. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the earthy greens, the savory onions and garlic, the creamy mozzarella. It was a taste sensation like I had never experienced before.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged my aunt to teach me how to make the Greens Casserole with Mozzarella, and she gladly obliged. As we cooked together, she shared stories of how she had learned the recipe from an old friend who had passed it down through generations. I was fascinated by the idea that food could carry so much history and tradition.

After that summer, I returned home with the recipe in hand, eager to share it with my own family. Over the years, I made the Greens Casserole with Mozzarella countless times, each time tweaking and perfecting the recipe to suit my own taste. And every time I made it, I could feel the presence of my aunt in the kitchen, guiding me with her wisdom and love.

As the years passed, I became known for my Greens Casserole with Mozzarella. Friends and family would request it for special occasions, and I was always happy to oblige. There was something truly special about sharing a dish that had been passed down through generations, connecting me to my past and my heritage.

Now, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful summer so long ago, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of that recipe. It has brought me joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging. And every time I make it, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish the soul.

So here's to the Greens Casserole with Mozzarella - a recipe that has stood the test of time, and a reminder of the love and tradition that binds us all. May it continue to bring joy and satisfaction to all who taste it, just as it has for me and my family.