Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller
Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller is a delightful dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. This version of classic spinach casserole combines creamy textures with crispy topnotes, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a special dinner party, or simply as a comforting side dish, this recipe will surely impress your guests while being relatively easy to prepare.
Why Make This Recipe
Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller is more than just a side dish; it’s a flavorful experience. The combination of fresh spinach, rich cream, and savory Parmesan creates a luxurious yet approachable alternative to regular spinach sides. Plus, it can easily be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving, allowing for more leisurely entertaining. Making this dish not only showcases the unique flavors of spinach but also encourages even the pickiest eaters to enjoy their greens. It’s a win-win scenario that adds nutrition and taste to your table!
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller
Creating this scrumptious dish is straightforward and calls for a few simple steps. The joy of preparing Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller lies in watching the ingredients transform into a creamy and flavorful bake that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh spinach (or 2 bags, chopped)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
Pro Tips for Success with Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller
- Fresh Spinach Is Key: Using fresh spinach gives the dish a more vibrant flavor and better texture than frozen alternatives.
- Sauté Carefully: Ensure the garlic doesn’t burn while sautéing the onions; keep an eye on it to maintain a sweet flavor.
- Breadcrumb Variations: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, like panko or seasoned breadcrumbs, for added flavor or texture.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your baking time; you want the topping to be golden and the mixture bubbly without drying it out.
Flavor Variations for Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller
- Cheese Swaps: Substitute half of the Parmesan with Gruyère or Fontina cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to the mixture for a fragrant twist.
- Add Protein: Incorporate cooked, diced chicken or shrimp to turn this side dish into a hearty main course.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Seasonal Produce: Swap out some spinach for other greens, like kale or Swiss chard, for a seasonal variant.
Serving Suggestions for Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller
Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements grilled meats like chicken or steak and is even a fabulous companion to seafood dishes, enhancing their flavors without overpowering them. You can also serve it alongside pasta or as part of an elegant buffet spread. For a complete meal, consider adding a refreshing salad or roasted vegetables to your table.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent the top from burning, and heat in the oven until warmed through. Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller also freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|———–|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
FAQ About Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach as a substitute for fresh. Be sure to thaw and drain it completely to remove excess moisture. However, fresh spinach provides a more vibrant flavor and superior texture.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you need a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk with a tablespoon of cornstarch for thickening. Coconut cream can also be a dairy-free option if you’re looking for alternatives.
How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from burning?
To avoid burnt breadcrumbs, cover the baking dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking. Then remove the foil to allow the top to brown for the remaining time.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the breadcrumbs right before baking to keep them crunchy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller gluten-free, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. This adaptation ensures everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
Final Thoughts
Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller is a fantastic addition to any meal, effortlessly blending comfort and sophistication. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and the delightful crunch of a golden breadcrumb topping, this dish has the potential to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening with family, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in a wonderful culinary experience. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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Ruth’s Chris Spinach Rockefeller
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A luxurious yet approachable spinach casserole combining creamy textures with crispy topnotes, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh spinach (or 2 bags, chopped)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
Notes
Using fresh spinach enhances flavor and texture. Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
