Crispy-Top High Protein Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is one of those dishes that feels nostalgic, comforting, and rich but this version gives the classic a protein-boosted, lightened-up twist thanks to cottage cheese. It still delivers all the warmth and coziness you want from a creamy spinach bake, but without feeling heavy or overly indulgent. It’s the perfect side dish to pair with roasted chicken, festive dinners, or cozy weeknight meals.

Using frozen spinach makes this recipe incredibly easy and budget-friendly, and letting it thaw ahead of time means it cooks down quickly without extra water. When the onions and garlic soften in the pan, they form a flavorful base that balances the freshness of the spinach. Cooking the spinach until most of the moisture evaporates is what prevents your casserole from becoming watery. it’s the key step that keeps the final dish rich and creamy.

Instead of the traditional heavy cream or blocks of cream cheese, cottage cheese melts beautifully into the sauce. Once stirred in with a splash of milk and your seasonings, it creates a silky texture that tastes indulgent but still feels nourishing. The cottage cheese adds protein, tang, and creaminess without overpowering the spinach.

To finish, the mixture is baked under a layer of parmesan and cheddar. This step transforms the creamed spinach into a gratin-style casserole with the most delicious crispy, golden top. The contrast between the creamy interior and the crunchy cheese crust makes every bite comforting and satisfying.

This is the kind of side dish that works for holidays but is easy enough for everyday dinners. It reheats well, tastes even better the next day, and serves as a versatile option alongside meats, rice dishes, pasta, or roasted vegetables. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this cottage-cheese spin on traditional creamed spinach will easily become a staple in your rotation.