Introduction
This creamy Spinach, Mushroom & Potato Bake is a comforting vegetarian casserole made with buttery mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach and mushrooms, rich homemade béchamel sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy oven-baked meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests.
Ingredients for Potato Purée
- 3–4 potatoes
- 2–3 tbsp butter
- Milk, as required
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions for Potato Purée
- Boil the potatoes until tender.
- Mash them until smooth.
- Add butter, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until creamy and keep aside.
Ingredients for Spinach Layer
- 400–500 g spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green chilli, chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, chopped
- 3–4 tbsp olive oil
- 250–300 g mushrooms, sliced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Chilli flakes (optional)
Instructions for Spinach Layer
- Heat the olive oil in a pan.
- Add the onions and garlic and sauté for a few minutes.
- Add the chilli flakes (if using) and mushrooms.
- Cook over medium heat for a few minutes.
- Add the chopped spinach.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook until the spinach softens.
Ingredients for Béchamel Sauce
- 2–3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or oat flour
- 1½ cups milk
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Dash of nutmeg powder
Instructions for Béchamel Sauce
- Heat the butter in a saucepan.
- Add the flour while stirring continuously.
- Cook until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking.
- Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Cook on low heat until the sauce becomes smooth and thick.
Assemble the Bake
- Mix the prepared béchamel sauce into the spinach mixture.
- Adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Take an ovenproof baking dish.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly as the base layer.
- Spread the spinach and béchamel mixture over the potatoes.
- Top generously with mozzarella cheese.
- Add garlic bread around the sides of the baking dish if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 160–180°C for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Enjoy!
Spice Level: 🌶
