Grandma’s spinach bake

### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick cooking spray.

2. **Prepare the Spinach**:
If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain out as much excess water as possible. It’s important to squeeze the spinach dry to avoid a watery bake. If you prefer to use fresh spinach, you can sauté it until wilted, then drain and squeeze out the excess moisture.

3. **Cook the Onion and Garlic**:
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant. Set aside to cool.

4. **Combine the Ingredients**:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, cooked onions, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra depth of flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything together until fully combined and smooth.

5. **Bake the Spinach Bake**:
Pour the spinach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bake is set in the center. If you want a slightly crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.

6. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Let the spinach bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a fresh salad for a light but satisfying meal.

### Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Spinach Bake:

1. **Comforting and Creamy**: The blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and comforting texture, making this spinach bake a delicious way to enjoy vegetables.

2. **Nutritious and Delicious**: Packed with spinach, this dish is an excellent way to sneak some healthy greens into your diet. The combination of cheese and eggs provides a good balance of protein and calcium, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

3. **Easy to Make**: This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare. With just a few steps and basic ingredients, Grandma’s Spinach Bake comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals.

4. **Versatile**: Grandma’s Spinach Bake works well as both a side dish and a main course. Pair it with your favorite proteins or enjoy it on its own for a light, flavorful meal. You can even make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

5. **Family-Friendly**: Even picky eaters will love the creamy, cheesy texture of this dish. It’s a great way to introduce kids to spinach, as the cheese and creamy filling make the spinach less overwhelming for those who aren’t fans of greens.

### Variations to Try:

– **Add Meat**: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or bacon to the spinach mixture. This will make the dish even more filling and add a savory touch.

– **Use Different Cheeses**: While cheddar and Parmesan are the classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

– **Make It Spicy**: If you enjoy a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.

– **Make It Low-Carb**: To make this dish more keto-friendly, replace the sour cream with full-fat Greek yogurt, and omit any bread crumbs or additional carbs.

– **Add Other Vegetables**: Feel free to include other vegetables in the spinach bake, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts. This is a great way to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

### Final Thoughts:
Grandma’s Spinach Bake is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the creamy richness of cheese with the wholesome goodness of spinach. Simple to prepare and perfect for family gatherings, this dish is bound to become a beloved favorite in your home. Whether you serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a main course, Grandma’s Spinach Bake brings warmth, flavor, and a little bit of nostalgia to every meal. Try it today, and let the comforting flavors of this timeless recipe fill your kitchen with love!