Craving that creamy, cheesy, utterly irresistible spinach artichoke souffle from Panera Bread? We've got you covered! This homemade version captures all the deliciousness of the restaurant favorite, but with the added bonus of knowing exactly what's going into your delicious dish. Get ready for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion appetizer. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals you can enjoy without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds the flavor base of our delicious dish.
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Combine the spinach and artichokes: Add the thawed and squeezed spinach and chopped artichoke hearts to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This ensures everything is warmed and ready to be mixed with the creamy elements.
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Mix the creamy components: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until well incorporated. Then, gently fold in the Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Combine everything: Add the spinach and artichoke mixture to the cream cheese mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined. This step creates a homogenous blend of textures and flavors.
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Bake the souffle: Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs for a golden-brown crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the souffle is set and lightly golden brown. Homemade cooking at its finest!
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Serve and enjoy: Let the souffle cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a firmer texture. Serve warm as a delicious side dish or appetizer, perfect for any occasion.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of Parmesan and Romano cheese.
- Add some protein: Crumbled cooked bacon or shredded chicken would be a delicious addition.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it vegetarian: Ensure your cream cheese and mayonnaise are vegetarian-friendly.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the souffle mixture ahead of time and bake it when ready. Store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: Approximately 18-22g Protein: Approximately 8-10g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
Please note that this nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Panera Bread copycat recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. It's a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily create with readily available ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe is a surefire hit! Enjoy!