Learn how to make Spinach Madeline.

Serve it with crackers or alongside main dishes for a versatile, crowd-pleasing addition to the table.

Who Created Spinach Madeline?

Spinach Madeline

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox

And, we are sure glad she did!

Theres no wonder this dish has been a long-standing hit, both during the holidays and throughout the year.

Its a rather strange combination of frozen spinach and spicy cheese that somehow works perfectly together.

spinach madeline ingredients - Southern Living

Credit:Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Can I Make Spinach Madeline Ahead?

To make Spinach Madeline ahead, prepare as directed through Step 3.

Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to two days.

Cooked and drained spinach

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Refrigerate for up to four days.

For longer storage, freeze for up to two months.

Uncover in the last few minutes to help the topping crisp up.

cooking a roux as the base of spinach madeline - Southern Living

Credit:Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Squeeze out excess liquid, and reserve.

Set the spinach aside.

Start sauce:

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.

spinach madeline sauce stirring

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Add shallots and cook until soft, about 2 minutes.

Stir in the garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the flour and stir until smooth, but not brown, about 30 seconds.

stirring spinach into creamy mixture

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Reduce the heat to medium-low.

Stir continuously to avoid any lumps.

Cook until smooth and thick, about 2 minutes.

spinach madeline mixture in dish

Credit:Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Add the cheese a handful at a time, and continue to stir until it is melted.

Fold in the spinach.

Add salt and pepper.

cooked spinach madeline

Credit:Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Fill dish:

Transfer to a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.

Broil and serve:

To serve immediately, preheat the broiler to high.

Combine the oil and breadcrumbs in a small bowl.

Top the casserole with the breadcrumbs, and broil until golden, about 3 minutes.

To serve the following day, preheat the oven to 350F.

Place the casserole dish, covered, in the oven, and heat through, 20 to 25 minutes.

Remove from the oven.

Combine the oil and breadcrumbs in a small bowl.

Top the casserole with the breadcrumbs, and broil until golden, about 3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spinach Madeline was created by Madeline Nevell Reymond, who gave it its name.

Yesthis dish can be made ahead and frozen for up to two months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before heating through in a 350F oven.