Creamed spinach delivers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The smooth, creamy sauce complements the earthy taste of spinach, creating a dish that feels both comforting and satisfying.
It’s also surprisingly quick to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes like steak, chicken, or fish. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or a simple dinner, this recipe adds a touch of elegance without requiring complicated steps.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Fresh spinach or frozen spinach
Butter
Garlic
Onion or shallot
All-purpose flour
Milk
Heavy cream
Cream cheese
Parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Nutmeg, optional
Directions
If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and cook it in a large pan until wilted. Drain well and squeeze out excess moisture, then chop roughly.
If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the onion or shallot and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
Add the prepared spinach to the sauce and mix well.
Cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce is thick and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Estimated timing:
Prep time: 10 to 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total time: about 25 to 35 minutes
Variations
You can customize creamed spinach in several ways. For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream and use more milk instead. If you want extra richness, add more Parmesan or a touch of mascarpone.
For added flavor, sauté mushrooms with the onions or include a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. You can also add a bit of grated mozzarella for a stretchier, cheesier texture.
If you prefer a low-carb version, skip the flour and let the cheese and cream naturally thicken the sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it and restore its creamy consistency.
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate and affect the texture when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works very well. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture.
How do I keep creamed spinach from being watery?
Make sure to remove as much liquid as possible from the spinach before adding it to the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
What does nutmeg add to the dish?
Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and enhances the creamy flavor without overpowering it.
Can I make it without cream cheese?
Yes, you can omit it or replace it with additional cream or a bit of mascarpone.
What can I serve with creamed spinach?
It pairs well with steak, roasted chicken, fish, or even pasta dishes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickener or omit it entirely.
Why is my sauce too thick?
You may have used too much flour or cooked it too long. Add milk or cream to thin it out.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms or kale can be added for extra texture and flavor.
Is creamed spinach healthy?
It can be part of a balanced diet, though it is richer due to the cream and cheese.
Conclusion
Creamed spinach is a timeless side dish that turns simple ingredients into something luxurious and satisfying. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s a perfect complement to a wide range of meals. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
This creamed spinach recipe is a rich and comforting side dish made with tender spinach in a velvety garlic cream sauce. Perfect for pairing with steak, chicken, or fish, this classic dish is easy to prepare and full of indulgent flavor.
Ingredients
Fresh spinach or frozen spinach
Butter
Garlic
Onion or shallot
All-purpose flour
Milk
Heavy cream
Cream cheese
Parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
If using fresh spinach, cook until wilted, then drain, squeeze out excess moisture, and chop.
If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out excess liquid.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion or shallot and cook until softened, then stir in garlic.
Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
Add cream cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.
Add spinach and mix well.
Cook for a few minutes until heated through and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
Remove as much moisture as possible from spinach to avoid a watery sauce.Add more milk or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.Mushrooms can be added for extra flavor.Skip flour for a low-carb version.A pinch of nutmeg enhances the creamy flavor.
