Description
Creamy Spinach Gratin with Crispy Pancetta is a rich and comforting dish featuring sautéed fresh spinach in a luscious cream sauce topped with salty, crispy pancetta. Perfect for weeknights or holiday spreads!
Ingredients
1 pound fresh spinach (or 16 oz frozen, well-drained)
4 ounces pancetta, diced
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, keeping the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Add butter to the skillet, then sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
4. Add fresh spinach a handful at a time, allowing it to wilt before adding more. Cook until fully wilted. (If using frozen, ensure it’s thawed and drained.)
5. Pour in the heavy cream, stir in Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Return the crispy pancetta to the pan and stir to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs if using.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
9. Let it rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
Letting the gratin rest enhances texture and flavor.
Pair with grilled meats or a crisp green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: creamy spinach gratin, pancetta spinach bake, holiday side dish, cheesy spinach casserole