Copycat Calhoun's Spinach Maria

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#28560

Chopped, sauteed greens mixed with a roux and three types of cheeses may be the furthest spinach has ever strayed from a salad bowl.

serves/makes:

ready in:
30-60 minutes

5 reviews

ingredients

5 packages (10 ounce size) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
4 1/2 cups milk
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
5 tablespoons melted butter
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
8 ounces Cheddar cheese, cubed
4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
1 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese

directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9x11-inch baking dish.

Combine the milk, dry mustard, garlic, crushed red pepper, and onion in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring the milk to a simmer and let cook while you prepare the roux.

Combine the melted butter and flour in a saucepan over low heat. Mix well and cook, stirring constantly, for 3-4 minutes or until it forms a paste.

Add the roux to the simmering milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

Add the cubed cheeses to the sauce. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese has melted. Remove the pan from the heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Add the spinach and mix well.

Transfer the spinach mixture to the baking dish. Top the spinach with the grated cheese. Place the spinach in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly. Serve the spinach Maria hot.

Recipe Source: Calhoun's Restaurant, Knoxville, TN

recipe tips

Squeeze excess moisture from thawed spinach to prevent a watery dish.

For a richer flavor, saute the onion in the butter until translucent before adding the milk and other ingredients.

Experiment by adding other ingredients like cooked mushrooms or diced bell peppers for variety.

Let the dish stand for a few minutes after baking before serving to help set the mixture.

For visual appeal, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving.

Try serving it in individual ramekins instead of one large dish for a more upscale presentation.

common recipe questions

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Cook it down and drain any excess liquid before using.

Is it necessary to use three types of cheese?

The three types of cheese add the right combo of flavors, but you can adjust types and quantities according to preference.

How do I know when the roux is ready?

The roux is ready when it becomes a smooth paste and has a slightly cooked, nutty aroma.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

You can add sauteed mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichokes.

How should I store leftover spinach Maria?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate. Then bake just before serving.

Can I use low-fat cheese for this recipe?

Low fat cheese doesn't melt as smoothly so it may be gritty or stringy. You can reduce the fat by using a portion of the cheese called for with a low fat version, but we don't recommend using all low or non-fat.

Can I freeze Spinach Maria?

It's best fresh, but you can freeze it. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. The cheese sauce may separate a bit.

What is Spinach Maria?

Spinach Maria is a creamy, cheese-filled dish made with chopped, sauteed spinach, a rich cheese sauce, and topped with more cheese, baked until bubbly and golden.

Why use frozen chopped spinach instead of fresh?

Frozen chopped spinach is convenient as it is pre-washed and prepped, and it retains its nutrients well. It's also less watery than fresh spinach when cooked, making it easier to incorporate into dishes.

What types of cheese can I use as substitutes?

You can substitute Velveeta with cream cheese or a processed cheese spread for creaminess. For cheddar and Monterey Jack, other semi-hard cheeses like gouda or colby can be used, but they may alter the flavor slightly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or add diced fresh jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for more heat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the spinach mixture and assemble it in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake when you're ready to serve. It may require a few extra minutes in the oven if cooking from the fridge.

tools needed

9x11-inch Baking Dish: For baking the spinach mixture. Greasing the dish will help prevent sticking.

Saucepans: For combining the milk, dry mustard, garlic, crushed red pepper, and onion over medium heat, and for preparing the roux with melted butter and flour.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients such as the milk, dry mustard, garlic, and grated cheese.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the roux and the cheese sauce.

Grater: For grating the Monterey Jack cheese that will be used as a topping.

Colander: To drain the thawed spinach well before mixing it into the dish.

Knife: For cubing the cheese and dicing the onion.

what goes with it?

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs well with the creamy, cheesy texture of Spinach Maria, balancing the dish's richness with savory protein.

Savory Breadsticks: Soft, warm Olive Garden-style breadsticks provide a nice textural contrast to the creamy spinach and can be used to scoop up the dish.

Roasted Garlic Potatoes: The crispy, seasoned exterior of roasted garlic potatoes adds different texture alongside the soft Spinach Maria while the garlic complements the dish's flavors.

Bacon Crumbles: Adding crispy bacon on top introduces a salty, savory element that pairs well with the creamy spinach.

Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the spinach can brighten the dish, providing a welcome acidity that lifts the heavy cheese and cream.

Cherry Tomatoes: Roasted or fresh cherry tomatoes introduce acidity and sweetness, creating a nice balance against the richness of the Spinach Maria.

Herbed Quinoa: The light, nutty flavor of quinoa with fresh herbs will add a nutritious boost and a textural contrast that complements the creaminess of the spinach dish.

nutrition data

411 calories, 30 grams fat, 17 grams carbohydrates, 23 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in carbs.

reviews & comments

shout1974 REVIEW:
January 6, 2017

Haven't had Calhoun's version but this spinach dish is to die for!
Joan REVIEW:
December 1, 2015

I got the spinach maria at Calhoun's several years ago and I couldn't wait to get back there and get it again. I just got back and of course I had spinach maria. I really love this.
Karen, Iowa City REVIEW:
August 5, 2013

I make spinach Maria all the time. It's one of my favorite spinach dishes. It's very rich but it is a great dish and I get requests for it all the time.
Guest Foodie REVIEW:
May 28, 2007

Our family visited Calhoun, and many other restaraunts in the Pigeon Forge area over several days. My brother and I both got this side dish, and we think it is the best thing we had during our vacation.
Lady Vol REVIEW:
April 11, 2007

Since the 1980s our UT family has enjoyed Calhoun's and Spinach Maria. My husband and I rave about it!

Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.