Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite side dishes: creamed spinach! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, with its rich flavor and velvety creamy texture that just makes everything better. Seriously, if I’m having a steak or even just a simple chicken breast, I can’t resist whipping up a batch of this delightful creamed spinach to go alongside it. It’s become a comforting staple in my kitchen and always impresses my family and friends.

What I love most about creamed spinach is how easy it is to make! You’d think it’s something fancy, but it comes together in just a few simple steps. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens while still feeling indulgent. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this creamy goodness, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients to create your luscious creamed spinach:

1 lb fresh spinach
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh spinach for the best flavor—trust me, it makes all the difference! And feel free to adjust the cheese quantity to your liking; I often find myself adding a bit more Parmesan because, well, why not? It’s so good!

How to Prepare Creamed Spinach

Now, let’s dive into making this delightful creamed spinach! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll be on your way to a creamy, dreamy side dish that’ll have everyone asking for more!

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

First things first, you’ll want to wash your fresh spinach thoroughly. I usually fill a large bowl with cold water, then submerge the spinach and gently swish it around to help remove any dirt or grit. Once it’s nice and clean, drain it in a colander and give it a little shake to remove excess water. If you can, pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel; this helps when you’re cooking, so it doesn’t splatter everywhere!

Step 2: Cook the Garlic

Next, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. I love the sound of butter sizzling! Once it’s melted and bubbly, toss in your minced garlic. Sauté that for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant. You want it to be golden, not browned—overcooked garlic can get a bit bitter, and we don’t want that! Just keep an eye on it, and you’ll be golden.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Now it’s time for the star of the show! Add your washed and dried spinach to the pan. It might look like a lot at first, but don’t worry—it wilts down quite a bit! Stir it around with those lovely garlicky butter flavors for about 3-5 minutes until it’s nicely wilted. This step is super important because it gives your creamed spinach that lovely texture, so make sure to cook it until it’s just tender.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Once your spinach is all wilted and smelling divine, pour in the heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while you stir it in. This is where the magic happens! Keep stirring for a couple of minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. You’ll want a nice, creamy consistency that coats the spinach beautifully!

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese

Now, it’s time for the Parmesan cheese! Stir it in gradually until it’s melted and becomes part of that creamy goodness. If you find it isn’t as creamy as you’d like, feel free to add a splash more cream or even a little extra cheese. Taste it as you go; you’ll know when it’s just right!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season your creamed spinach with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; a little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing all those flavors. Serve it warm, and watch everyone’s faces light up as they dig into this rich, creamy delight. Trust me, it’s the perfect side for any meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Deliciously creamy and rich, it elevates any main dish.
Fresh spinach adds a nutritious touch while still feeling indulgent.
Versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with steak, chicken, or even fish.
Simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!
Great for meal prep—make it ahead of time and reheat when needed.
A fantastic way to impress family and friends with minimal effort.

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutrition in this creamy goodness! Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per serving of creamed spinach:

Calories: 200
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 6g

Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients used. But hey, with all that creamy deliciousness, it’s nice to know you’re still getting some greens in there, right? Enjoy every bite!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your creamed spinach turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are some of my top tips and tricks that I’ve picked up along the way:

Fresh is best: Always opt for fresh spinach rather than frozen. The flavor and texture are just unbeatable, and you’ll really taste the difference!
Don’t skimp on the butter: It may seem like a lot, but using the full 2 tablespoons of butter adds so much richness. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Adjust the cream: If you want an ultra-creamy texture, don’t hesitate to add a tad more heavy cream. Just keep stirring until you reach that dreamy consistency you’re after!
Flavor boost: Experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a subtle touch that can make a big difference!
Cheese choices: While Parmesan is a classic, feel free to mix it up! Adding a bit of cream cheese or Gruyère can give your dish a unique twist that’s oh-so-delicious.
Cook spinach properly: Make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan when wilting the spinach. If you have a lot, it’s better to do it in batches to ensure even cooking.
Serve immediately: Creamed spinach is best enjoyed fresh and warm, so try to serve it right after making it. If you need to keep it warm, set it on low heat and stir occasionally.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most scrumptious creamed spinach that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Variations of Creamed Spinach

One of the best things about creamed spinach is how versatile it is! You can easily put your own spin on this classic dish by adding different flavors or ingredients. Here are some fun variations I love to make:

Cheesy Delight: Swap out the Parmesan for other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. You can even mix in a bit of cheddar for an extra cheesy experience!
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the garlic while it’s sautéing. It adds a nice warmth to the dish!
Mushroom Medley: For an earthy flavor, sauté some sliced mushrooms with the garlic before adding the spinach. The combo of mushrooms and spinach is just divine!
Nutty Addition: Toast some pine nuts or walnuts and sprinkle them on top just before serving. It adds a wonderful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the creaminess perfectly.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or even a bit of basil can elevate your creamed spinach. Stir in some chopped herbs at the end for a fresh burst of flavor!
Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in more veggies? Add in some finely chopped kale, broccoli, or even artichoke hearts while the spinach is wilting. It’s a fantastic way to boost nutrition without sacrificing taste!

Feel free to get creative and mix and match these ideas! Each variation brings its own unique flavor, making creamed spinach a dish that never gets old. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite version!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made this delicious creamed spinach, let’s talk about how to store any leftovers (if there are any—trust me, it’s hard to resist!). Proper storage will keep it fresh and tasty for later enjoyment.

To store your creamed spinach, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. I usually like to divide it into smaller portions, so it’s easy to grab just what I need later on. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent any odors from other foods seeping in!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover creamed spinach, reheating is a breeze. I recommend gently warming it up on the stovetop over low heat. Stir it frequently to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. If it seems a bit thick after cooling, you can add a splash of cream or milk while reheating to bring back that lovely creamy texture.

If you want to reheat it in the microwave, go ahead! Just place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it moist), and heat it in short bursts of about 30 seconds, stirring in between. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating, which can dry it out.

And voilà! You’ve got your creamy, dreamy creamed spinach ready to go again. Enjoy every last bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh spinach is definitely the best option for flavor and texture, you can use frozen spinach in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the dish. This helps prevent your creamed spinach from becoming watery!

Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?
Absolutely! Creamed spinach can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. It’s a fantastic make-ahead side dish for holiday meals or dinner parties!

How can I make my creamed spinach healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten up the dish a bit, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even try mixing in some Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!

What can I serve with creamed spinach?
Creamed spinach pairs beautifully with so many main dishes! It’s a classic side for steak, but it also goes wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as part of a vegetarian plate alongside grains and other veggies. Get creative with your main course, and watch it all come together!

Can I freeze creamed spinach?
Yes, you can freeze creamed spinach! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. The texture may change slightly, but it’ll still taste great!

Creamed Spinach: 5 Comforting Steps for a Nostalgic Side Dish

Author: Lisa
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

Print Recipe

Description

Creamed spinach is a rich and flavorful side dish made with fresh spinach and a creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb fresh spinach
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Wash and dry the spinach.
Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve warm.

Notes

Use fresh spinach for the best flavor.
Adjust the cheese quantity to your preference.
This dish pairs well with steak or chicken.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 200
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: creamed spinach

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