Creamed Spinach

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Creamed Spinach because it’s incredibly rich and comforting, yet full of savory flavor from the garlic, Parmesan cheese, and spices. The spinach softens and melds perfectly with the creamy sauce, making it the ideal accompaniment to everything from roasted meats to simple weeknight dinners. It’s also a great way to enjoy your greens in a deliciously indulgent way, transforming the humble spinach into a creamy, flavorful side dish everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh spinach (or about 10-12 cups)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the spinach: Wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. If using fresh spinach, remove the stems and roughly chop the leaves. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain any excess water before using.

2. Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.

3. Add the spinach: Gradually add the spinach in batches, allowing it to wilt down as you add more. Stir occasionally to help the spinach cook evenly. If using fresh spinach, it will cook down significantly, so keep adding until all the spinach is wilted.

4. Make the creamy sauce: Once the spinach is fully wilted, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese (if using), and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.

5. Add cheese and spices: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and ground nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Serve: Once the spinach is fully coated in the creamy sauce, remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add bacon: For extra flavor, sauté some bacon until crispy, then crumble and stir it into the creamed spinach for a savory, smoky addition.

• Use different cheeses: You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.

• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream and skip the cream cheese and Parmesan to make a dairy-free version.

• Add onions or shallots: Sauté some finely chopped onions or shallots with the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover creamed spinach can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe container, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly in this recipe. Be sure to thaw and drain the spinach well to remove excess water before using it.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamed spinach ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I make this recipe lighter?

To make the dish lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a combination of milk and a little bit of flour to thicken the sauce.

Can I freeze creamed spinach?

Yes, creamed spinach can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, onions, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Creamed Spinach is a classic, rich, and flavorful side dish that adds elegance to any meal. The combination of tender spinach and creamy sauce, with a hint of nutmeg and Parmesan cheese, makes it a comforting and delicious addition to your menu. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Once you try it, this will likely become a go-to recipe for creamy, savory greens!