Fresh Spinach Madeline

Most recipes for spinach Madeline call for frozen spinach and they end up rather soupy. This spinach Madeline turns out creamy with a slight kick.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Calories: 364 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 pinch salt
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
• ½ cup half-and-half
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ancho chile powder
• 1 (8 ounce) package baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon granulated onion
• ⅔ cup shredded habanero-flavored cheese (such as Cabot®)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 2

Place spinach and water in a microwave-safe steamer. Microwave until spinach is wilted down, about 2 minutes. Drain off liquid and set spinach aside.

Step 3

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a paste. Season with salt. Pour in half-and-half, whisking continuously until smooth. Add onion, garlic, ancho chile powder, and cayenne, whisking until incorporated. Add spinach.

Step 4

Set aside 2 tablespoons habanero-flavored cheese. Stir remaining cheese into the spinach mixture and spoon into a small oval baking dish. Sprinkle with reserved cheese and bread crumbs.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Turn on the oven's broiler and broil until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve immediately.