If there’s a dish that proves comfort food can be elegant and crave-worthy at the same time, it’s Creamed Spinach. This classic recipe features vibrant spinach swirled into a silky, Parmesan-rich cream sauce that will have you scooping up seconds before you know it. Whether you’re rounding out a holiday table or dressing up a weeknight dinner, Creamed Spinach is always a crowd-pleaser, promising color, flavor, and cozy nostalgia in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Creamed Spinach such a go-to side is how each ingredient plays a special role: from the fresh earthiness of spinach to the warmth of garlic and a creamy sauce that binds it all together. Gather these simple staples and get ready for a showstopper.
- Fresh Spinach or Frozen Spinach: Fresh spinach gives you brightness and color, but frozen works perfectly if you’re short on time—just make sure you drain it really well.
- Unsalted Butter: The key to a rich base—using unsalted lets you control the seasoning.
- Garlic: Just two cloves, but they fill the cream sauce with aromatic warmth.
- Onion or Shallot: Adds a gentle, sweet background flavor that pairs beautifully with spinach.
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates the roux, ensuring your sauce is thick and luscious without being too heavy.
- Whole Milk: Forms the base of your sauce, making it smooth and balanced.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to that luxuriously creamy mouthfeel.
- Parmesan Cheese: Brings salty, nutty umami and helps your Creamed Spinach cling to every forkful.
- Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch brings warmth and an irresistible aromatic note.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for brightening and balancing all the other flavors.
How to Make Creamed Spinach
Step 1: Prep the Spinach
Start by blanching the fresh spinach in boiling water for just one minute—long enough to make it tender and vibrant, but not so long that it loses its color. Drain it quickly, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, and give it a rough chop. (If you’re using frozen spinach, squeeze out as much moisture as you can; nobody likes watery Creamed Spinach!)
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In your favorite large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion or shallot, cooking just until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. These aromatics infuse your sauce with incredible flavor right from the start.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed garlic and onions, and stir constantly for about one minute. This simple roux ensures that your Creamed Spinach turns out velvety rather than grainy, building the perfect foundation for your cream sauce.
Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce
Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, letting the mixture simmer until it thickens to a lovely, pourable consistency—this usually takes three to five minutes. The key here is patience and constant whisking, so your sauce stays ultra smooth.
Step 5: Combine Spinach and Finish
Stir in the chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and season everything generously with salt and black pepper. Let it simmer for a few more minutes, just enough to heat the spinach and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s irresistibly creamy and smells absolutely heavenly!
How to Serve Creamed Spinach
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way—sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or a pinch of cracked black pepper on top just before serving. For a pop of freshness, try a bit of chopped parsley or chives. These garnishes add both color and a final burst of flavor to your Creamed Spinach.
Side Dishes
Creamed Spinach is the ultimate companion to all your beloved mains. It’s unbeatable alongside a perfectly seared steak, juicy roasted chicken, or flaky baked salmon. On special occasions, let it share the holiday table with turkey, prime rib, or anything that could use a creamy, comforting sidekick.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Creamed Spinach into restaurant-worthy fare by serving it in mini gratin dishes with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan, broiled until golden. Or spoon it over baked potatoes, stir it into pasta, or tuck it beneath a crispy pastry lid for a comforting personal pot pie. The possibilities are endless and always delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamed Spinach keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Transfer it to an airtight container and enjoy within 2 to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making those next-day leftovers even more irresistible.
Freezing
If you want to get ahead on meal prep, you can freeze Creamed Spinach—just let it cool completely, store it in freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the Creamed Spinach on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to keep it smooth. Add a splash of milk or cream if it looks a little thick. Microwaving works in a pinch, but take it slow and stir often for the creamiest results.
FAQs
Can I use light cream or milk to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can swap the whole milk and heavy cream for equal amounts of half-and-half or even a lower-fat milk, though keep in mind the sauce may be a little less rich. For a gluten-free version, sub the flour with a GF alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.
How do I keep my Creamed Spinach from getting watery?
The trick is to drain your spinach thoroughly—whether it’s fresh or frozen, squeeze out as much liquid as you can before adding it to the sauce. Also, simmer the mixture until any excess moisture evaporates before serving.
Can I add cheese varieties besides Parmesan?
Definitely! While Parmesan adds great flavor, a touch of Gruyère or sharp white cheddar can add new levels of richness. Mixing in different cheeses is a fun way to customize your Creamed Spinach for any occasion.
Can I make Creamed Spinach ahead of time for a party?
Yes, Creamed Spinach is a make-ahead hero. Prepare it up to two days in advance, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven before serving, and freshen it up with a bit more Parmesan or cream if needed.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
It certainly is! Creamed Spinach is a hearty vegetarian dish, and you can ensure it’s strictly vegetarian by using Parmesan made without animal rennet. Perfect for holiday gatherings with guests of all eating styles.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a side dish that’s equal parts comforting, nostalgic, and utterly delicious, Creamed Spinach is the one to try. It’s a tried-and-true staple that fits effortlessly alongside crowd-pleasing favorites. Give it a spin and watch it become the star of your table—you just might find yourself making it for every special meal!
Print
Creamed Spinach Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this creamy and flavorful Creamed Spinach that makes for a perfect side dish to accompany your favorite main course. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a regular weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Fresh Spinach:
1 lb;
Unsalted Butter:
2 tablespoons;
Garlic:
2 cloves, minced;
Onion or Shallot:
¼ cup, finely chopped;
All-Purpose Flour:
2 tablespoons;
Whole Milk:
1 cup;
Heavy Cream:
½ cup;
Grated Parmesan Cheese:
¼ cup;
Ground Nutmeg:
⅛ teaspoon;
Salt and Black Pepper:
To taste
Instructions
- Prepare Spinach: Blanch fresh spinach in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and chop. For frozen spinach, squeeze out excess moisture.
- Saute Aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, cook until soft.
- Create Roux: Stir in flour, cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Make Sauce: Gradually whisk in milk and cream, cook until thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: Add spinach, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer until creamy.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute milk and cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Great as a side dish with steak, chicken, or holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
