Ruth’s Chris Cheesy Spinach Casserole with Monterey Jack Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy side dish, look no further than Ruth’s Chris Cheesy Spinach Casserole with Monterey Jack. This dish offers the perfect balance of fresh spinach, tender potatoes, and a luscious blend of Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a cozy classic that feels both luxurious and homey at the same time, ideal for elevating any meal with its rich texture and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but combine harmoniously to create a dish bursting with flavor and creamy goodness. Each element, from the fresh spinach to the smooth heavy cream, plays an essential role in delivering the perfect texture, color, and taste you’ll love.

• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a bright, earthy flavor and vibrant green color to the casserole.
• 3 cups cooked potatoes, diced or mashed: Provides a comforting, hearty base—Yukon Gold or Russet work great.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Gives the casserole its signature creamy, mild cheesiness with a luscious melt.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty contrast that deepens the flavor profile.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Ensures the casserole stays rich and silky throughout.
• ½ cup sour cream: Brings tang and extra creaminess for a perfect finish.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind everything together and adds luxurious richness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Introduces a subtle savory note that wakes up the dish.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the wonderful flavors.
• ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds just a touch of heat to balance the richness.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional): Provides a warm, aromatic spice that elevates the cheesy spinach.
• For the topping: ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or Parmesan: Creates a golden, bubbling crust that’s impossible to resist.
• 1–2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces: Dots the top for an extra buttery finish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Offers a fresh, herbaceous pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Cheesy Spinach Casserole with Monterey Jack

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your casserole mixture is assembled. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly—this prevents sticking and helps create those crispy edges we all adore.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, cooked potatoes (mashed or diced, your call), heavy cream, sour cream, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and the optional nutmeg. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is combined into a creamy, dreamy mixture that smells amazing already.

Step 3: Transfer and Top

Pour the creamy mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula so it bakes evenly. Then sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded Monterey Jack or Parmesan cheese. Dot the surface with small butter pieces—these little pockets of butter will help create a golden, crispy topping as the casserole bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Bubbly Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the top turns a gorgeous golden brown. For an even more spectacular crust, you can broil it for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the top for a burst of color and freshness that perfectly balances the richness.

How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Cheesy Spinach Casserole with Monterey Jack

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley is a simple yet effective way to brighten this rich dish visually and flavor-wise. You could also try a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for a crunchy contrast or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.

Side Dishes

This casserole naturally shines as a decadent side alongside hearty mains like a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or delicate seafood dishes. Its creamy texture pairs especially well with grilled or roasted proteins, helping to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, consider serving individual portions in ramekins or small cast-iron skillets to impress guests with a personal touch. Another fun idea is to layer the casserole into a trifle dish for a buffet-style presentation—people will love how cheesy and creamy it looks in layers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Ruth’s Chris Cheesy Spinach Casserole with Monterey Jack keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it great for next-day meals.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. To freeze beforehand, assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, cool completely first, then freeze in individual portions.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, usually around 15 to 20 minutes. This approach keeps the casserole creamy with a delightfully crisp top—far better than microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water from the frozen spinach before mixing it in to avoid a watery casserole.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

While the cheeses and creams define the character of Ruth’s Chris Cheesy Spinach Casserole with Monterey Jack, you could experiment with dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan cheeses, but the texture and flavor will differ.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers would be excellent additions that complement spinach and cheese beautifully.

What type of cheese works best if I can’t find Monterey Jack?

Mild white cheeses like mozzarella or even a mild cheddar can substitute, though Monterey Jack’s melting quality and flavor are ideal.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

Look for bubbling around the edges and a golden-brown top. The cheese should be melted completely, and when you insert a knife in the center, it should come out hot—no cold spots.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Ruth’s Chris Cheesy Spinach Casserole with Monterey Jack that turns a simple side into a memorable, comforting dish. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this casserole delivers layers of creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone will adore. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite spin on cheesy spinach!

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