Creamy Creamed Spinach Recipe

Flavorful Side Dish

Creamed spinach is a classic, velvety side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from juicy steaks to roasted chicken. It’s a staple at steakhouses but surprisingly easy to make at home. The combination of tender spinach and a creamy, cheesy sauce is indulgent, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe will elevate your meal.

Ingredients for Creamed Spinach

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh spinach (or 16 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Garnish

  • A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes
  • Additional Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

  1. Fresh Spinach Option:

    • Wash the spinach thoroughly and trim any tough stems.
    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and blanch the spinach for 1-2 minutes, just until wilted.
    • Drain the spinach and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Squeeze out excess water and roughly chop.

  2. Frozen Spinach Option:

    • Thaw the frozen spinach completely and press out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Roux

  1. Melt the Butter: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the butter-onion mixture and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

  1. Pour in the Liquids: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  2. Season: Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
  3. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Spinach and Sauce

  1. Add the Spinach: Gently fold the prepared spinach into the cream sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  2. Simmer Together: Let the spinach cook in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Plate the Dish: Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving bowl or platter.
  2. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle with a bit more Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flair.

Tips for Perfect Creamed Spinach

  1. Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: While fresh spinach offers vibrant color and flavor, frozen spinach is a convenient and time-saving alternative.
  2. Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as Gruyère or cream cheese, for a unique twist.
  3. Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.
  4. Make It Ahead: Creamed spinach can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~250
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg

Variations

Spicy Creamed Spinach

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a subtle kick.

Vegan Creamed Spinach

Substitute butter with olive oil, cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

Keto-Friendly Creamed Spinach

Skip the flour and thicken the sauce with cream cheese or xanthan gum for a low-carb option.

Baked Creamed Spinach

Transfer the prepared creamed spinach to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until golden.

Pairing Suggestions

Creamed spinach is a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses:

  • Steak: A juicy ribeye or filet mignon pairs wonderfully with the richness of creamed spinach.
  • Chicken: Serve alongside roasted or grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
  • Seafood: Creamed spinach is a perfect partner for salmon, shrimp, or lobster.
  • Vegetarian Entrées: Pair with baked portobello mushrooms or a hearty vegetable tart.

Storage and Reheating

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
  3. Freezing: Creamed spinach can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why Homemade Creamed Spinach?

Making creamed spinach at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and tailor the flavors to your liking. It’s free of preservatives, fresher than store-bought options, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Plus, the creamy, cheesy sauce ensures even spinach skeptics will ask for seconds!

Conclusion

Creamed spinach is a comforting, decadent side dish that adds a touch of elegance to any meal. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender spinach, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Follow this recipe, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing side that’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or casual weeknight meals.

Give this recipe a try and savor the creamy goodness—it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy spinach!

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