Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a mouthwatering dish that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious? This Gratin of Greens Casserole is about to become your new favorite comfort food secret weapon! Packed with vibrant, nutrient-rich greens and a creamy, cheesy base, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups mixed greens (kale, collard greens, etc.)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Thoroughly wash the mixed greens and remove any tough stems. Chop the greens into roughly 1-inch pieces, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the chopped greens for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly wilted. Immediately drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Gently fold the blanched greens into the cheese mixture, ensuring the greens are evenly coated.
- Transfer the green and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole, creating a light, crispy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose a Mix of Greens: Don't be afraid to experiment with different greens like kale, collards, Swiss chard, or spinach. Each brings a unique flavor and nutritional profile to the dish.
- Blanching is Key: Make sure to blanch the greens briefly and shock them in cold water. This preserves their bright color and prevents them from becoming soggy in the casserole.
- Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: After blanching, gently squeeze out excess water from the greens to prevent a watery casserole.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and cheeses come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smoother, more evenly combined mixture.
- Breadcrumb Bonus: For an extra crispy top, try mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this casserole with a light salad or roasted chicken for a complete meal that's sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
