Spinach Madeline is a comforting side that is a spicy twist on traditional creamed spinach. Instead of just cream, the spinach is mixed with pepperjack cheese and spices, then baked to make this outstanding vegetarian side dish that pairs well with most meals!
0 Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spray a 1.5 qt. baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, and set aside.
1 If you haven't yet, cook the [wprm-ingredient text="12 oz. frozen chopped spinach" uid="0"]. Heat for 6-8 minutes in a microwave-safe container in the microwave with no extra liquid. When the spinach is cooked through, strain over a bowl or a liquid measuring cup to reserve the cooking liquid for later. Set aside.
2 In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the [wprm-ingredient text="2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil" uid="1"].
3 When the olive oil is simmering, add the chopped [wprm-ingredient text="1 small onion" uid="2"], stirring in the pan until it has softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4 Measure in [wprm-ingredient text="2 tablespoons all-purpose flour" uid="3"], and stir until the onions are coated. Cook for a few minutes until the flour begins to turn golden brown.
5 Slowly pour in [wprm-ingredient text="½ cup milk" uid="4"] and [wprm-ingredient text="¼ cup spinach cooking liquid" uid="5"], stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add [wprm-ingredient text="1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce" uid="6"], [wprm-ingredient text="¾ teaspoon celery salt" uid="7"], [wprm-ingredient text="¾ teaspoon garlic salt" uid="8"] and [wprm-ingredient text="½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper" uid="9"]. Taste and add a healthy pinch of [wprm-ingredient text="Kosher salt" uid="10"] if necessary.
6 Remove from the heat, and add the [wprm-ingredient text="0.75 cup pepperjack cheese" uid="11:1"] of pepperjack cheese and the cooked, drained spinach. Stir until the ingredients have melted together, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
7 Once the mixture is in the baking dish, sprinkle the remaining [wprm-ingredient text="0.25 cup pepperjack cheese" uid="11:2"] of pepperjack on top of the casserole, and transfer to the oven.
10 Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is browned.
8 Serve warm, and enjoy!
