This creamed spinach is a creamy, dreamy side dish that’s rich and comforting. With fresh spinach cooked to perfection, it’s mixed with a velvety sauce—perfect for any meal!
If you’re like me, you’ll find it’s hard to resist second helpings of this delightful treat. I love serving it alongside roasted chicken; they make a great pair! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe as it provides a vibrant flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it completely before adding it to the dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter for a rich flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dish. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or even a non-dairy creamer. Almond or oat milk can work in a pinch, but the texture will be thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: For added flavor, I love using grated Parmesan. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor while keeping it vegan.
How Do You Get the Spinach Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the spinach just right is key to a great creamed spinach. You want it tender but still bright green. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat to avoid burning the garlic or onion.
- Add the onions and let them soften first—this step builds flavor.
- When you add the spinach, stir frequently and only cook until wilted (about 3–5 minutes).
- Avoid overcooking the spinach, as it can become mushy. You want it to maintain some texture for a nice bite!
Following these tips will give you a delicious, creamy, and well-flavored spinach dish that’s sure to impress!
Delicious Creamed Spinach Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamed spinach dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick, easy, and will have dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as this can alter the flavor.
3. Cook the Spinach:
Now, add the chopped spinach to the pan. Stir it around, cooking until it wilts down, which should take around 3–5 minutes. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot at first; spinach cooks down significantly!
4. Pour in the Cream:
Once the spinach is wilted, pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine everything. This is where the magic begins!
5. Season It Up:
Season the creamy spinach mixture with nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Stir to mix all the flavors together.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and let it cook, stirring occasionally. This will help the cream thicken slightly and coat the spinach, taking about 5–7 minutes.
7. Final Touches:
If you’d like a richer flavor, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and combined. This adds a delicious cheesy note to your dish!
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give your creamed spinach a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You want it to be just right!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the creamed spinach warm! It’s perfect as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted chicken. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the dish to avoid a watery consistency.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half works well. For a non-dairy substitute, try coconut milk or a cashew cream, though you’ll want to adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamed spinach in advance, then reheat it before serving. Just be mindful that spinach can lose some texture upon reheating, so it’s best enjoyed fresh if possible!