Why This Recipe Works
A rich, creamy holiday side that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or vegetarian mains.
This spinach feta gratine is a holiday staple—layered with tangy feta, silky béchamel, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Ready in 35 minutes, it’s a vibrant green side that complements any festive menu.
Perfect for Christmas or Thanksgiving, this gratine delivers savory depth and gooey comfort. The golden breadcrumbs add texture, while the spinach and feta create a tangy-creamy balance.
Save this recipe for your holiday table—it’s easy to make ahead and pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian main.
With vibrant color and rich flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet balanced. Let’s dive into why this recipe works!
Why This Recipe Works
Why This Recipe Works
Flavor Harmony
The tangy feta contrasts with creamy béchamel, while spinach adds earthy depth. The golden breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch.
Quick Prep
Ready in 35 minutes with minimal effort. Mix ingredients, layer, and bake—perfect for last-minute holiday prep.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Assemble ahead and refrigerate until baking. The breadcrumbs are added fresh for optimal crispiness.
Versatile Pairing
Complements roasted meats, vegetarian mains, or even festive salads. Its vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any plate.
Ingredients You'll Need
Spinach & Feta Gratine
A rich, creamy holiday side with tangy feta and golden breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
- - 10 oz fresh spinach
- - 8 oz crumbled feta cheese
- - 1 cup heavy cream
- - 1 cup whole milk
- - 2 tbsp butter
- - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- - 1 cup breadcrumbs
- - 1 tsp fresh thyme
- - Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare Béchamel: In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add cream and milk, stirring until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Use low heat to avoid lumps—stir constantly.
Layer Ingredients: In a baking dish, spread spinach, then feta cheese. Pour béchamel over the top.
💡 Press spinach gently to remove excess moisture.
Add Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and thyme. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes until golden.
💡 Add breadcrumbs last to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Fresh Spinach
Provides vibrant color and nutrients. Use baby spinach for tender texture.
Substitutions: Cooked frozen spinach (squeeze out moisture), kale (for a heartier flavor).
Feta Cheese
Adds tangy contrast to the creamy béchamel. Use crumbled feta for even distribution.
Substitutions: Ricotta salata (milder), goat cheese (creamy).
Breadcrumbs
Create a golden, crunchy topping. Use panko for extra crispiness.
Substitutions: Crushed crackers, croutons.
Heavy Cream
Ensures a rich, silky béchamel. For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
Substitutions: Whole milk (thicker), coconut milk (for a dairy-free option).
Pro Tips for Perfect Spinach & Feta Gratine
Pro Tips for Perfect Spinach & Feta Gratine
Layering Technique
Press spinach into the dish to remove excess water. This prevents sogginess and ensures even baking.
Béchamel Consistency
Cook the béchamel over low heat, stirring constantly. It should coat the back of a spoon but remain smooth.
Make-Ahead Tip
Assemble the gratine up to 24 hours ahead. Add breadcrumbs just before baking for optimal crispiness.
Serving Temperature
Serve immediately after baking for the crispiest topping. Reheat in a 350°F oven if needed.
Variations & Customizations
Variations & Customizations
Add Herbs
Mix chopped parsley or dill into the béchamel for extra freshness.
Cheese Swap
Replace feta with goat cheese or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Option
Use vegan feta and nutritional yeast to mimic béchamel’s cheesy flavor.
Spicy Twist
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the béchamel for a subtle kick.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast Turkey: The tangy feta balances the richness of turkey gravy.
- Herb-Crusted Ham: Complements the creamy béchamel and golden topping.
- Vegetarian Main: Pairs beautifully with a quinoa-stuffed bell pepper dish.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Serve with a crisp Chardonnay or a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon to match the dish’s richness.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the gratine up to 24 hours ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator. Add breadcrumbs just before baking.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked gratine for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding breadcrumbs and baking.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through. Avoid microwave use to preserve the breadcrumb topping.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Why is my béchamel lumpy?
A: Cook over low heat and stir constantly. If lumps form, strain the béchamel before using.
Q: How to prevent soggy spinach?
A: Squeeze out excess moisture from spinach before layeringing. Use paper towels to pat dry.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: Yes, but crumbled feta works best. Pre-shredded cheeses may become too soft during baking.
Q: How to fix a dry gratine?
A: Add a splash of cream to the béchamel or cover with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
This spinach feta gratine is a holiday essential—rich, comforting, and vibrant. Its layers of flavor and golden topping make it a standout side that pairs beautifully with any main dish. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe will impress your guests with minimal effort.
For best Pinterest visibility, post this side dish pin as part of a complete meal series: start with the gratine, followed by a roasted meat or vegetarian main, and finish with a festive dessert. Happy baking!
