Cheesy Spinach and Potato Bake

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### **Instructions**

#### Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
1. **Preheat the oven**: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. **Prepare the potatoes**: Slice the peeled potatoes thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline for even cooking.

#### Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
1. **Cook the spinach**: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. **Wilt the spinach**: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained before adding. Remove from heat and set aside.

#### Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
1. **First layer**: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. **Add spinach**: Spread the sautéed spinach evenly over the potatoes.
3. **Cheese layer**: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the spinach.
4. **Second potato layer**: Add the remaining potatoes on top and season again with salt, pepper, and thyme.

#### Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese
1. **Pour the cream**: Drizzle the heavy cream evenly over the layered potatoes and spinach. This helps create a creamy texture.
2. **Top with cheese**: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. For extra flavor, add a handful of grated Parmesan.

#### Step 5: Bake
1. **Cover and bake**: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. **Uncover and finish**: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.

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### **Why This Dish Works**

1. **Layered Flavor**: The combination of seasoned potatoes, savory spinach, and melted cheese creates layers of flavor that make each bite better than the last.
2. **Creamy Texture**: The heavy cream binds the ingredients together, resulting in a velvety, cohesive bake.
3. **Customizable Ingredients**: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences, such as using sweet potatoes, kale instead of spinach, or adding cooked bacon or ham for extra heartiness.

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### **Serving Suggestions**
– Pair it with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete vegetarian meal.
– Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish for a hearty side dish.
– Make it a holiday favorite by preparing it as a crowd-pleasing accompaniment to turkey or ham.

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### **Tips for Success**
1. **Slice Evenly**: Thin, uniform slices of potato ensure even cooking.
2. **Drain the Spinach**: If using frozen spinach, press out as much liquid as possible to avoid a watery bake.
3. **Use a Variety of Cheeses**: A mix of cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack adds depth to the flavor.
4. **Let it Rest**: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the layers set and make slicing easier.

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### **Variations to Try**
1. **Cheesy Bacon Spinach Bake**: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the layers for a smoky, meaty twist.
2. **Vegan Option**: Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative (like cashew cream) and use dairy-free cheese.
3. **Herbed Delight**: Mix fresh rosemary or sage into the cream for an herby aroma and taste.

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### **Conclusion**

This **Cheesy Spinach and Potato Bake** is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. Its creamy, cheesy layers are guaranteed to please, while the spinach adds a welcome boost of greens. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Try this recipe, and you’ll see why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation!