When the leaves start to change and the air gets that special chill, I can’t help but crave comfort food that warms the soul. Enter creamed spinach—a dish that takes simple greens and transforms them into something utterly delightful. It all begins with fresh spinach, whether you snag it from the garden or grab a bag from the freezer. I love how this recipe strikes that perfect balance between creamy and cheesy, making every bite feel indulgent yet incredibly satisfying.
You’d be surprised at how quickly this comforting side dish comes together! In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a velvety sauce that pairs marvelously with everything from a juicy steak to roasted chicken. Even better? It’s entirely customizable! Add a hint of nutmeg for warmth or a sprinkle of bacon for a savory twist. Trust me when I say, this creamed spinach will earn its place at your dinner table time and again. Let’s dive into the creamy goodness!
Why is Creamed Spinach a Must-Try?
Comforting, this dish invokes feelings of warmth with every bite, making it an ideal addition to your family dinner. Quick preparation means you can brighten up weeknight meals without the fuss. Versatile enough to serve alongside steak, chicken, or even as a veggie dip! Customizable with add-ins like bacon or nutmeg, it easily fits your taste preferences. Healthy indulgence, turning simple spinach into a creamy delight will win over even the pickiest eaters!
Creamed Spinach Ingredients
For the Spinach
• Spinach – Fresh spinach provides the best flavor and texture, while frozen spinach is a convenient alternative; just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid a watery dish.
For the Sauce
• Butter – Unsalted butter is recommended for controlling seasoning; you can substitute olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Garlic – Minced garlic adds an aromatic flavor and is a staple in the sauce for that comforting essence.
• Onion or Shallot – Adds sweetness and depth to the base; can easily be swapped with other aromatics as you prefer.
• Flour – Acts as a thickener for the sauce; be sure to cook it well to avoid a raw taste.
• Milk or Heavy Cream – Used to create the creamy consistency; adjust for your desired richness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty flavor that complements the spinach beautifully; nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
• Nutmeg – A pinch enhances the dish’s depth; it’s optional but highly recommended for that extra you won’t want to miss.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste for the perfect flavor balance.
For Serving
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a touch of heat; adds a delightful kick to the creamy goodness.
Get ready to dive into a dish that’s not just delicious but also embodies the essence of comfort food—your tastebuds will thank you!
How to Make Creamed Spinach
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Prepare Spinach: Begin by cooking fresh spinach in a pot with a splash of water for about 2-3 minutes until wilted. Drain and chop it finely. If you’re using frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed and well-drained to avoid a watery dish.
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Make the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté for approximately 3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
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Create Roux: Sprinkle flour over the garlic and onion mixture. Whisk together for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, ensuring it’s smooth and well-combined.
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Whisk in Liquid: Gradually pour in the milk or heavy cream while stirring continuously. Keep whisking for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens and is creamy.
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Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan and a pinch of nutmeg. Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. If you like a little spice, add optional crushed red pepper flakes.
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Combine Spinach: Gently fold the cooked spinach into the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld all the flavors.
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Serve: Transfer your delicious creamed spinach to a serving dish and enjoy it warm, particularly alongside flavorful steak or roasted chicken.
Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan for a cheesy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamed Spinach Variations
Ready to make this dish your own? Dive in and discover delightful twists and turns that elevate your creamed spinach experience!
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Bacon Boost: Stir in cooked, chopped bacon for a savory, smoky flavor that adds depth and delight. It’s a crowd-pleaser that transforms your dish into a true indulgence.
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Cheesy Crust: Top with an extra sprinkle of grated cheese before baking until bubbly and golden. This adds a deliciously crispy finish that elevates each bite.
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Zesty Finish: Add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for a bright, zesty kick. This simple adjustment enhances the spinach’s natural flavors, making every mouthful sing.
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Alternative Greens: Swap spinach for Swiss chard or kale, adding a twist with different textures and flavors. Enjoy the vibrant colors and unique tastes while keeping the dish nutritious.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for an added crunch. This contrast in texture not only enhances flavor but also makes your creamed spinach more visually appealing.
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic for a bolder flavor profile. Sauté additional minced garlic in the butter until golden for an aromatic punch that garlic enthusiasts will adore.
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Creamy Dream: Substitute cream cheese for milk or heavy cream. This creates an ultra-rich, thick texture that takes your creamed spinach to a whole new level of decadence.
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Spicy Spinach: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat. This adventurous choice invites a delicious warmth that transforms the classic dish into a spicy delight.
Storage Tips for Creamed Spinach
Fridge: Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
Freezer: Creamed spinach can be frozen for up to 3 months. For optimal freshness, place in freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring all air is removed.
Thawing: To reheat from frozen, transfer to the fridge the night before or use the microwave. Heat slowly in a saucepan, stirring often, until warmed through.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare creamed spinach a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for the best results!
What to Serve with Creamed Spinach?
Creamed spinach is a delightful side that elevates any meal, bursting with rich flavors and creamy textures.
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Juicy Ribeye Steak: The richness of ribeye pairs beautifully with the creamy spinach, creating a luxurious dining experience that balances flavors perfectly.
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Roasted Chicken: This classic pairing works wonders; the juicy, savory chicken complements the velvety texture of the creamed spinach beautifully.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide another level of comfort, soaking up all the delicious sauce from the creamed spinach while adding a fluffy texture to your plate.
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Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft and warm rolls offer the perfect vehicle to scoop up creamed spinach, delivering comfort with every bite. Plus, they make dinner feel extra special!
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Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter, lower-carb option, fluffy cauliflower rice makes a wonderful base that lets the creamed spinach shine.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crunchy greens adds a bright contrast to the richness of the spinach, making each bite more enjoyable.
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Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of crisp white wine cuts through the creaminess and enhances the overall dining experience, bringing a delightful freshness.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a light and airy dessert; the richness of the mousse offers a luxurious finish to your comforting meal.
Make Ahead Options
Creamed spinach is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor its creamy goodness with less time spent in the kitchen during busy evenings. You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until step 6, then store the creamy spinach mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality and freshness, ensure the spinach is well-coated in the creamy sauce, which helps prevent it from becoming too watery. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the creamed spinach in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. Enjoy this comforting side dish at your dinner table without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Creamed Spinach
• Choose Quality Greens: Using fresh spinach will always elevate your dish. If using frozen, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess water ruining the creamy texture.
• Season Wisely: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the flavors, ensuring your creamed spinach is a showstopper.
• Watch the Roux: Be careful not to overcook the flour when making the roux; it should be lightly golden. Overcooking can lead to a raw flour taste in your sauce.
• Customize Layering Flavors: Feel free to play around! Adding nutmeg brings a delightful warmth, while a splash of hot sauce can offer a surprising kick to the creamed spinach.
• Reheat Carefully: If you have leftovers, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore that rich creaminess.
• Mind the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of milk or cream to attain your preferred consistency—smooth and velvety or thick and hearty, it’s all up to you!
Creamed Spinach Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best spinach for creamed spinach?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh spinach. Look for vibrant green leaves without dark spots or wilting. If you choose frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed, and drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery dish.
What is the best way to store leftover creamed spinach?
Very! To store leftovers, place the creamed spinach in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove and add a splash of milk to restore that creamy consistency you love.
Can I freeze creamed spinach?
Absolutely! Creamed spinach can be frozen for up to 3 months. For optimal results, use freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to eliminate as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on low, stirring often.
What should I do if my creamed spinach is too watery?
No worries, this can happen sometimes! If your creamed spinach turns out watery, try simmering it in a saucepan over low heat to reduce excess moisture. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it, whisking until smooth and well combined.
Is there a dairy-free option for creamed spinach?
Very! You can make a delicious dairy-free version by substituting the milk and butter with almond milk or coconut milk and vegan butter. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can my pets eat creamed spinach?
Be careful! While spinach is safe for pets in small quantities, the creamy sauce and seasonings may not be suitable for them. To be safe, it’s best to let them enjoy plain, cooked spinach instead of the creamed version.
Creamed Spinach: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cooking fresh spinach in a pot with a splash of water for about 2-3 minutes until wilted. Drain and chop it finely. If you're using frozen spinach, ensure it's fully thawed and well-drained to avoid a watery dish.
- In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté for approximately 3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Sprinkle flour over the garlic and onion mixture. Whisk together for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, ensuring it’s smooth and well-combined.
- Gradually pour in the milk or heavy cream while stirring continuously. Keep whisking for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens and is creamy.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan and a pinch of nutmeg. Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. If you like a little spice, add optional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Gently fold the cooked spinach into the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld all the flavors.
- Transfer your delicious creamed spinach to a serving dish and enjoy it warm, particularly alongside flavorful steak or roasted chicken.