Holiday gatherings in Louisiana aren’t complete without Spinach Madeline, but it doesn't have to be the holidays to make it! This recipe is well-loved by locals and visitors alike, and whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, Spinach Madeline is the perfect simple dish to bring to your next get-together!

 

Spinach Madeline

Ingredients

2 (10 ounces) packages of chopped frozen spinach, cooked according to directions and drained (reserve 1/2 cup liquid)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup evaporated milk
6 ounces jalapeño cheese spread (such as this one from Calandro's Supermarket or Velveeta), cut into small pieces and divided
1/4 cup butter
3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Dash of hot sauce (optional)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add flour and onions and cook until the consistency becomes paste-like.

Step 2: Slowly mix in the evaporated milk, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Add garlic salt, pepper, cayenne, Worcestershire, salt and hot sauce. Add half of the cheese and stir until melted.

Step 4: Stir in the spinach and mix until well incorporated.

Step 5: Add the spinach mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Set an oven rack about 6 inches away from the oven’s heat source and preheat the broiler.

Step 7: Place the baking dish under the broiler until breadcrumbs are golden, about 5 minutes.

 

Serve with crackers, tortilla chips or vegetables. Enjoy!