Creamed Spinach Recipe

If you have a soft spot for rich, velvety side dishes that can elevate any meal, you are absolutely going to love this Creamed Spinach Recipe. It’s a timeless classic that turns humble spinach into a luscious, comforting delight. Whether you’re pairing it with a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or simply enjoying it on its own, this creamed spinach is packed with layers of flavor—from the sweetness of sautéed onions and garlic to the warmth of nutmeg, all bound together in a creamy sauce that feels indulgent but stays true to the fresh green vibrancy of spinach. Let me walk you through how this simple yet elegant dish comes together and how you can make it a new staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, offering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. The ingredient list is straightforward and easy to find, making it a fantastic option for a quick but satisfying side dish.

• 2 pounds Fresh spinach: Choose tender, vibrant leaves that are free from blemishes to ensure freshness and vibrant color.
• 4 tablespoons Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the saltiness while adding rich creaminess.
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped: A sweet or yellow onion adds a natural sweetness and depth to the base of your sauce.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma that complements the spinach perfectly.
• 1/4 cup All-purpose flour: This acts as the thickening agent, giving the sauce its irresistibly creamy texture.
• 1 cup Milk: Whole milk is recommended for that luscious creaminess that makes every bite smooth.
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream: Adds a luxurious mouthfeel and makes the sauce truly indulgent.
• 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds warmth and complexity, elevating the flavor beyond basic cream sauce.
• Salt to taste: To bring out and balance all the fresh and savory flavors.
• Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper adds just the right hint of spice and depth.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional): Adds a salty, nutty finish that’s utterly delicious if you’re feeling extra cheesy.

How to Make Creamed Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by giving your spinach a thorough wash under cold water to remove any grit or dirt, then let it drain well in a colander. Clean spinach is the foundation for this recipe, so don’t rush this step.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

In a large pot or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This soft, sweet base infuses your creamed spinach with a gentle depth of flavor that makes all the difference.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Garlic’s warm aroma perks up the dish beautifully without overpowering the spinach.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Stir constantly to combine and cook for about 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. This step thickens the sauce and helps it cling perfectly to the spinach.

Step 5: Add the Milk Gradually

Pour in the milk slowly, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring as the mixture simmers gently until it thickens and bubbles lightly. This makes the sauce smooth and creamy with just the right consistency.

Step 6: Stir in the Heavy Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream for that extra touch of richness. This addition makes your creamed spinach feel indulgent without being heavy.

Step 7: Season the Sauce

Add nutmeg, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper according to your taste. The nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that rounds out the flavors just right. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes to marry the flavors.

Step 8: Combine Spinach and Sauce

Fold the fresh spinach into the sauce carefully, allowing the heat to wilt the leaves and coat them fully with the creamy mixture. This step is where the magic happens as your vibrant spinach transforms into a silky, dreamy side dish.

Step 9: Add Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

If you want a touch of nutty saltiness, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. This optional step adds an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Transfer your creamed spinach to a warm serving dish and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your creamed spinach with simple garnishes such as a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a dusting of black pepper, or even toasted pine nuts for added crunch and a nutty dimension.

Side Dishes

This creamed spinach pairs beautifully with roasted meats like steak, grilled chicken, or pork chops. It also shines alongside baked potatoes or hearty grains like quinoa or wild rice for a complete, well-balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the creamed spinach in small ramekins or puff pastry shells. You could also top it with crispy fried shallots or a drizzle of browned butter for extra indulgence that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Freezing

While creamed spinach freezes well, it’s best to freeze it without the Parmesan cheese to prevent texture changes. Use a freezer-safe container or bag and consume within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

Reheat your creamed spinach gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Avoid microwaving at high heat to maintain its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this creamed spinach recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well and can save prep time. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the sauce to avoid a watery dish.

Is it necessary to add nutmeg to the creamed spinach recipe?

While nutmeg is optional, it really adds a lovely warmth and depth of flavor that elevates the dish. A small pinch makes a noticeable difference without being overpowering.

Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

You can! Use plant-based butter, milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute. The flavor and creaminess will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I prevent lumps when adding the milk?

Pour the milk in gradually while whisking constantly. This technique incorporates the liquid smoothly and helps prevent lumps from forming in your sauce.

Why does my creamed spinach sometimes turn out watery?

Watery creamed spinach usually results from excess liquid in the spinach or sauce. Make sure to drain your spinach well and simmer the sauce long enough to thicken. Also, avoid adding too much milk or cream at once.

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Spinach Recipe is a heartwarming classic that’s easy to prepare but absolutely full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this creamy side dish always comes through as a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and soon it might just become your go-to for elevating everyday dinners with a touch of comfort and elegance.

Print