Spinach With Béchamel Sauce Gratin Hard-Boiled Egg Baking in the Oven Recipe
When it comes to comfort food with a touch of elegance, Spinach With Béchamel Sauce Gratin Hard-Boiled Egg is a dish that immediately comes to mind. This French-inspired recipe combines the earthy flavors of fresh spinach with the creamy richness of béchamel sauce, all crowned with the delightful texture and flavor of hard-boiled eggs.
Baked to perfection, this dish has a history rooted in French cuisine and has since become a beloved option for both a main course and a side dish. In this recipe, I’ll share why I find it so special and guide you through the process of creating this delectable dish.
Why I Love This Spinach Gratin Recipe
I have a soft spot for this Spinach Gratin recipe for several reasons. Firstly, it beautifully combines wholesome spinach, which is packed with nutrients, with the indulgent creaminess of béchamel sauce.
It strikes a perfect balance between healthy and decadent, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re serving it as a side to elevate a weeknight dinner or as the star of your meal, it’s a versatile option.
Additionally, the addition of hard-boiled eggs brings a unique twist to the dish. The eggs not only provide a satisfying texture but also infuse the gratin with their rich, savory flavor. It’s a combination that’s sure to intrigue your taste buds.
Lastly, the process of preparing this dish is a delightful culinary journey. Making the velvety béchamel sauce from scratch, wilting the fresh spinach, and assembling it all into a beautiful gratin is both satisfying and rewarding. And the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes in the oven is simply irresistible.
Key Ingredients and Their Purpose
- Béchamel Sauce: The heart of this dish, the béchamel sauce, is made from butter, flour, milk, and seasonings. Butter and flour create a roux that thickens the sauce, while milk adds creaminess. Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg season the sauce, enhancing its flavor.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It wilts down during cooking, providing a vibrant green color and a refreshing, earthy taste to the gratin.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Sliced hard-boiled eggs contribute a satisfying texture and a rich, savory flavor to the dish. They create a harmonious contrast with the creamy béchamel sauce and the tender spinach.
- Parmesan Cheese and Breadcrumbs: These ingredients form the gratin’s crispy, golden-brown topping. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami kick, while breadcrumbs provide a delightful crunch. Melted butter binds them together for a perfect finish.
Instructions for Spinach Gratin with Béchamel Sauce and Hard-Boiled Eggs
Creating this Spinach Gratin with Béchamel Sauce and Hard-Boiled Eggs is a delightful journey. To summarize the instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the béchamel sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and gradually whisking in milk until thickened. Season it with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Sauté minced garlic in olive oil, then wilt fresh spinach. Season with salt and pepper.
- Grease a baking dish and layer with wilted spinach, sliced hard-boiled eggs, béchamel sauce, and the remaining spinach.
- Prepare the gratin topping by mixing Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle it evenly over the spinach.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Allow it to cool briefly before serving, savoring the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen. Enjoy!
Spinach With Béchamel Sauce Gratin Hard-Boiled Egg Baking in the Oven
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg optional
For the Spinach:
- 1 pound fresh spinach washed and trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gratin:
- 4 hard-boiled eggs peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Start by making the béchamel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until it turns a pale golden color.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the béchamel sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir occasionally until the spinach wilts, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Grease a baking dish and spread half of the wilted spinach at the bottom.
- Place the sliced hard-boiled eggs on top of the spinach.
- Pour the prepared béchamel sauce evenly over the eggs.
- Add the remaining spinach on top of the béchamel sauce.
- In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter until it forms a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle this evenly over the spinach.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use frozen spinach if fresh is not available, just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
- Serve with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 15g
FAQs on Spinach Gratin Recipe
Can I use pre-made béchamel sauce?
Yes, you can use pre-made sauce to save time, but homemade béchamel is recommended for the best flavor.
What can I substitute for fresh spinach?
Frozen spinach can be substituted, but make sure to thaw and drain it first.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and bake it just before serving.
How long should I hard-boil the eggs?
Typically, hard-boiled eggs are boiled for 9-12 minutes, then cooled in ice water before peeling.
Can I freeze leftovers?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to a month.
What does “gratin” mean in cooking?
Gratin refers to a dish that is topped with breadcrumbs, cheese, or a mixture of both and baked until it forms a golden-brown crust.
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