Ah, *Creamed Spinach*! It takes me back to my childhood family gatherings, where the table was a feast of flavors and laughter. I remember my grandmother always made this dish, and as soon as it was served, it vanished like magic! There’s something so comforting about the rich, creamy texture and the savory flavor that just wraps around you like a warm hug. I can still hear my cousins arguing over the last scoop! Trust me, whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this side dish is always a showstopper. It’s easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with just about anything. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach: Make sure to choose vibrant green leaves. You can use baby spinach for a milder taste or regular spinach for a more robust flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Unsalted butter works best, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This will help thicken the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk is ideal for that luscious creaminess, but you can use 2% if you prefer.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: This is where the magic happens! It adds richness that takes the dish to the next level.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg elevates the flavors beautifully, adding warmth to the dish.
- Salt: To taste, but I usually start with a pinch and adjust later.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked is best! Add to your liking for that extra kick.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a fantastic flavor boost. You can also try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
How to Prepare *Creamed Spinach*
Getting your *Creamed Spinach* just right is a breeze! I promise it’s easier than it sounds, and the end result? Absolutely divine! So, let’s dive into the steps together, shall we? You’ll want to follow along closely to get that creamy perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by washing and trimming the 1 pound of fresh spinach. Make sure to remove any tough stems. It’s crucial to get rid of any grit, so I like to soak it in cold water for a few minutes and then rinse.
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. You’ll want it to be bubbly but not browned—this is where the magic begins!
- Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk for about 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux, and you want to cook it just long enough to get rid of that raw flour taste.
- Now, slowly add in 1 cup of milk, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is where you can really start to smell the deliciousness!
- Next, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens up nicely. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Add the washed spinach to the pot, stirring until it wilts down. This should only take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll see that vibrant green color pop!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch and adjust later, so it’s just right.
- Finally, mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the creamy sauce. You’re almost there!
And there you have it! Serve it warm or at room temperature, and get ready for some compliments. Trust me, this dish is going to steal the show!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This *Creamed Spinach* comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Rich and Satisfying: The creamy texture and savory flavor are so comforting; it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!
- Versatile Side Dish: Whether you’re serving it alongside steak, roasted chicken, or even a vegetarian main, it pairs beautifully with almost any meal.
- Nutritious: Packed with fresh spinach, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens without sacrificing flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant green color and creamy finish make it an eye-catching addition to your table!
- Can Be Made Ahead: Whip it up in advance and reheat for an effortless side that tastes fresh every time.
Tips for Success
To make sure your *Creamed Spinach* turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, always use fresh spinach; it makes a world of difference in flavor and texture. If you can, buy it from a local farmer’s market for that just-picked taste!
Next, don’t rush the roux! Make sure you cook the flour for a minute or two to eliminate that raw taste—trust me, it’s worth the wait. If you want an extra creamy texture, feel free to swap some of the milk for even more heavy cream.
Also, don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper until it’s just right for you. And if you want a bit of zing, try adding a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. These little tweaks will elevate your dish to the next level!
Variations
If you’re looking to spice up your *Creamed Spinach*, there are so many fun variations to try! For a cheesy twist, swap in some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Want to add a kick? A pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes will do the trick! You could also try mixing in some sautéed garlic or shallots for an aromatic touch.
Feeling adventurous? Add in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair. And if you love a touch of sweetness, a handful of sautéed mushrooms can add depth and richness. The possibilities are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of this delicious *Creamed Spinach* (which I doubt, but just in case!), you’ll want to store it properly. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should last about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of milk or cream if it seems a bit thick. Just be careful not to scorch it! Enjoy that creamy goodness all over again!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my *Creamed Spinach*! Each serving contains about 220 calories, 18g of fat (10g saturated), 6g of protein, and 10g of carbohydrates. You’ll also get 4g of fiber and 300mg of sodium. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, you’re getting those greens in, and that’s what counts!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the creamy sauce. It’s a great time-saver, especially when fresh spinach isn’t available!
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
If you’d like to make *Creamed Spinach* dairy-free, you can substitute the milk and heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream. Nutritional yeast can replace the Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What should I serve with *Creamed Spinach*?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains! It’s fantastic alongside grilled chicken, steak, or even a hearty veggie lasagna. You can also serve it as a comforting side for holiday feasts!
Can I prepare *Creamed Spinach* ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve. It tastes just as delicious the next day!
Why is my *Creamed Spinach* watery?
If your dish turns out watery, it might be due to excess moisture in the spinach. Make sure to thoroughly dry your spinach after washing it. Also, cooking the sauce long enough to thicken is key, so don’t rush that part!
Creamed Spinach: 7 Irresistible Secrets for Perfection
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamed Spinach is a rich and savory side dish made with fresh spinach and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Wash and trim the spinach.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and nutmeg, cooking until thickened.
- Add spinach, stirring until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Can be served warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Creamed Spinach, Spinach Recipes, Side Dish