If you have been on the lookout for a luscious, comforting side dish that elevates any meal, this Creamed Spinach Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. It’s the perfect harmony of tender spinach, rich cream, and savory Parmesan, all coming together in a silky, decadent sauce that makes even the pickiest eaters swoon. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty steak or simply craving a velvety green boost, this dish brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance to your table without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamed Spinach Recipe relies on a handful of simple, essential ingredients that blend perfectly to create a dish bursting with flavor and gorgeous texture. Each one acts like a little magic spell, transforming fresh spinach into a creamy delight.
- Fresh spinach (1 1/2 lbs) or frozen spinach (2 10-oz packages): The star of the show, delivering that vibrant green color and fresh taste.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatic onion and garlic.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Brings a sweet and mellow base flavor.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): For an irresistible fragrant punch that wakes up the palate.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The key to that silky smooth texture that makes this dish so indulgent.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, nutty depth that perfectly complements the spinach.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A subtle spice that gently enhances the creaminess without stealing the spotlight.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and brighten the flavors.
How to Make Creamed Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
If you’re using fresh spinach, start by blanching it in boiling water just until it wilts, around 1 to 2 minutes. This step softens the leaves and sets their color beautifully. Once blanched, be sure to drain and squeeze out as much water as possible to avoid a watery final dish. If frozen spinach is your choice, simply thaw it thoroughly and wring out all the excess liquid. This prep makes all the difference in getting perfectly creamy spinach instead of a soggy mess.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, allowing it to become soft and slightly sweet. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an extra minute until its wonderful aroma fills your kitchen. This step forms the flavorful aromatic base for your creamed spinach that you can’t help but love.
Step 3: Add the Cream
Now it’s time to pour in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer on medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes so the cream can start to thicken just slightly, creating that luxurious base for our spinach to soak up all its richness.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Stir in your prepared spinach, mixing it well with the creamy onion and garlic mixture. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is fully coated and the sauce reaches that velvety consistency you’re aiming for. This is where the magic really happens—fresh spinach turns into a sumptuous side you’ll crave again and again.
Step 5: Season and Add Cheese
Finish by stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, if you’re using it. The cheese melts beautifully into the cream, adding just the right amount of tangy, savory flavor that pulls everything together. Season with salt and pepper to your preference, then cook for a final 2 to 3 minutes so everything combines perfectly. This final step ensures your Creamed Spinach Recipe is a perfectly balanced, deeply satisfying dish.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your warm creamed spinach to a serving dish and enjoy this gorgeously creamy, flavorful side right away. It’s a wonderful way to bring a bit of soul and color to your meal with very little effort.
How to Serve Creamed Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
While the dish is beautiful on its own, adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few toasted pine nuts on top can elevate the presentation and add some delightful texture. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper also brings a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This Creamed Spinach Recipe pairs impeccably well with hearty mains like a grilled steak, roasted chicken, or seared salmon. It also complements rustic mashed potatoes and creamy risottos, lending a bright, fresh contrast to heavier components of a meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the classic side bowl and try serving the creamed spinach inside baked mushrooms or stuffed into puff pastry parcels for a fun appetizer twist. You could also layer it in a casserole with layers of roasted vegetables or mix it into a quiche for a delicious brunch centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, make sure the surface is covered well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors, so every bite stays fresh and creamy.
Freezing
While freezing creamed spinach is possible, the texture will slightly change due to the cream and cheese. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the creamed spinach slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help restore its silky texture. Avoid microwaving at high power, as it can dry out or separate the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this Creamed Spinach Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works wonderfully here. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible to keep the dish creamy and not watery.
Is it necessary to blanch fresh spinach first?
Blanching fresh spinach is recommended as it softens the leaves and retains their bright green color. It also removes any grit and makes squeezing out excess water easier, resulting in a better texture for your creamed spinach.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer. Also, replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor, though the texture and taste will vary slightly.
What can I add to make the creamed spinach more flavorful?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a gentle kick, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also add a fresh twist.
How long does it take to prepare this Creamed Spinach Recipe?
From start to finish, it takes about 20 to 25 minutes, making it a quick and easy side to whip up for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and elegant about a well-made Creamed Spinach Recipe, and this version hits all the right notes with fresh ingredients and simple steps. It’s a dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. Don’t just take my word for it—give it a try and experience that perfect creamy, cheesy spinach that might just become your new favorite side!
Print
Creamed Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Creamed Spinach recipe is a rich and creamy side dish perfect for complementing any meal. Made with fresh or frozen spinach, sautéed onions and garlic, and a luscious cream and Parmesan cheese sauce, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that is both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
Spinach
- 1 1/2 lbs fresh spinach (or 2 10-oz packages frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
Base and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, blanch it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain thoroughly and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. For frozen spinach, ensure it is completely thawed and well-drained.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until aromatic.
- Add the Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Bring the cream to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the prepared spinach, mixing well to incorporate it evenly into the cream. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is well coated and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Season and Add Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle in the optional ground nutmeg. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese melts and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish and serve hot as a flavorful side dish to your favorite entrée.
Notes
- To reduce the chance of watery creamed spinach, be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the spinach after cooking or thawing.
- Nutmeg is optional but adds a subtle, warming flavor that enhances the creaminess.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half in place of heavy cream, though the texture will be less rich.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steak, roasted chicken, or baked fish.
