If you have ever wished for a luscious, comforting side dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, then this Creamed Spinach Recipe is about to become a staple in your kitchen. Packed with tender spinach enveloped in a velvety, cheesy sauce that carries hints of nutmeg and garlic, this dish shines with balanced flavors and a creamy texture that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you are aiming to elevate your steak night or brighten up a holiday table, this classic side will win over hearts and appetites alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamed Spinach Recipe lies in its straightforward, well-chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of creaminess, flavor depth, and vibrant green color that makes creamed spinach so irresistible.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing spinach gently, adding subtle fruitiness and helping wilt the leaves evenly.
- Unsalted butter: Brings richness and a silky mouthfeel to the sauce foundation.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Offers a sweet aroma and delicate savoriness once softened.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Packs a punch of flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce into a smooth, luscious consistency.
- Whole milk: Provides a creamy base without overpowering the spinach.
- Heavy cream: Intensifies the richness and ensures a luxuriously thick texture.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, subtle spice that enhances the depth of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Season perfectly to balance and lift all the components.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, savory edge and helps thicken the sauce further.
- Fresh spinach (roughly chopped) or frozen spinach (thawed and drained): The star ingredient, bringing vibrant color, nutrients, and freshness.
How to Make Creamed Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Start by gently sautéing your fresh spinach in a hot skillet with olive oil until it wilts down and releases its beautiful deep green juices. This process takes about 3 to 4 minutes. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s completely thawed and well drained—excess moisture can weaken the sauce’s creaminess. Set the cooked spinach aside while you prepare the sauce base.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat to create a rich starting point. Toss in finely chopped onions and cook them until they turn soft and translucent, usually 3 to 4 minutes. Onions add a gentle sweetness, making your creamed spinach more complex and satisfying. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook it for just 30 seconds so it releases its fragrance without any bitterness.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle all-purpose flour evenly over the softened onions and garlic. Keep stirring for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth roux—a thickening powerhouse for your sauce. This step is critical for achieving that perfect, velvety creaminess that defines this Creamed Spinach Recipe.
Step 4: Whisk in the Dairy
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously, ensuring the sauce stays lump-free and smooth. Next, season with a pinch of ground nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to deepen the flavors. Simmer the sauce gently for about 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken luxuriously.
Step 5: Combine Spinach and Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which melts into the sauce adding sharpness and body. Now fold the cooked spinach back into the skillet, coating it thoroughly with your creamy concoction. Think of this moment as bringing all the best elements together—creamy, cheesy, and full of bright green goodness. Let it heat through for another 1 to 2 minutes, then it’s ready to serve.
How to Serve Creamed Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to add a little pizzazz to your plate, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving. A few toasted pine nuts or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavor and add an exciting contrast to the rich creaminess.
Side Dishes
Creamed spinach is a versatile side that pairs beautifully with hearty mains like grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even holiday roasts such as prime rib or turkey. Its smooth texture and cheesy notes also complement potato dishes and roasted mushrooms, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon your creamed spinach into individual ramekins and top with crushed croutons or crispy shallots for added crunch. You can also use it as a decadent filling for savory crepes or puff pastry parcels, adding elegance and a burst of flavor to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamed spinach keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious when reheated gently.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this Creamed Spinach Recipe if needed. Let it cool completely and place it in freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months without losing too much texture or flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the creamed spinach over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back its smooth, creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works wonderfully in this creamed spinach recipe. Just be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out any excess water to avoid a watery sauce.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond cream, and use vegan butter and cheese to keep it creamy and flavorful.
What if I want a thicker sauce?
For an even thicker texture, simply add a bit more flour when making the roux, or reduce the amount of milk slightly. Another trick is to stir in a small amount of cream cheese or Gruyère for extra richness.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Creamed spinach is excellent for make-ahead meals. Prepare it fully, store it in the refrigerator, and gently reheat right before serving to wow your guests.
How do I make the creamed spinach less salty?
To control saltiness, add salt gradually and taste as you go, especially since Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick. Using unsalted butter also helps manage the overall salt level.
Final Thoughts
This Creamed Spinach Recipe truly is a knockout side dish that brings comfort and sophistication to your meals. It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet so rewarding with every creamy, flavorful bite. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy spinach that everyone will be asking for again and again!
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Creamed Spinach Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Creamed Spinach recipe features fresh or frozen spinach cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, onions, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of nutmeg. It’s a perfect, comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with steak, chicken, or holiday roasts, delivering a luscious texture and savory flavor.
Ingredients
Spinach
- 1 pound fresh spinach (roughly chopped) or 10 oz frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the spinach until wilted, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from the pan, drain excess liquid, and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Dairy: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheese and Spinach: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Fold the sautéed spinach back into the sauce and cook together for another 1–2 minutes until heated through and creamy.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish and enjoy while warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a richer texture, consider adding cream cheese or Gruyère cheese to the sauce.
- This side dish pairs wonderfully with steak, chicken, or holiday roasts.
- Make sure to drain spinach well to avoid a watery sauce.
- You can adjust seasoning to your taste, especially salt and nutmeg.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
