Creamed Spinach

Creamed Spinach: A Luxurious and Velvety Side Dish 🥬🧈✨

1. Introduction

Creamed spinach is one of those classic side dishes that can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or preparing an elegant holiday feast, this rich and creamy spinach creation never fails to impress. The combination of fresh spinach leaves with butter, cream, and aromatic garlic creates a side dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Many restaurants serve their version of creamed spinach, but nothing beats making it at home where you can control the quality of ingredients. If you love creamy vegetable dishes, you might also enjoy our Mexican Mac and Cheese which offers a similar comforting experience.

2. Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. For the best results, I recommend using fresh spinach rather than frozen, though frozen can work in a pinch (more on that in our FAQ section). Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb fresh spinach leaves, washed and stems removed (about 2 large bunches)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for that rich, velvety base)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is always best for maximum flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (yellow or white onion works well)
• 1 cup heavy cream (this creates the luxurious texture)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (use freshly grated for best results)
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional but highly recommended for depth of flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For those looking for alternative ingredients, check out our disclaimer about substitutions and modifications.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Proper preparation is key to perfect creamed spinach. Start by thoroughly washing the spinach leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit – spinach can be surprisingly sandy! I recommend washing them at least twice, changing the water each time. After washing, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Remove any tough stems if necessary, though young spinach leaves often have tender stems that don’t need removal.

Step 2: Blanch the Spinach

Blanching is a crucial step that many home cooks skip, but it makes all the difference in texture and color. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil – the salt helps preserve the vibrant green color. Add the spinach leaves all at once and blanch for about 30 seconds until just wilted. Immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process (this is called “shocking” the spinach). Drain well and squeeze out excess water – I like to use a clean kitchen towel for this – then roughly chop the spinach. This method gives you better control over the final texture compared to simply wilting the spinach in the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet (I prefer cast iron for even heating), melt the butter over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter stops foaming. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic – if it starts to brown, immediately lower the heat. This aromatic base is what gives creamed spinach its incredible depth of flavor. For more cooking techniques, check out our about page where we share professional tips.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Now comes the magic! Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir to coat with the butter mixture. Pour in the heavy cream (you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version) and bring to a gentle simmer – bubbles should just break the surface. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg (if using – this classic spice pairing with spinach is a game-changer), then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly – it should coat the back of a spoon. The consistency should be creamy but not runny. For another creamy dish idea, try our Copycat Chicken Bryan recipe.

4. Serving Suggestions

Creamed spinach is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats like steak or lamb chops, roasted poultry, or as part of a holiday spread (it’s a must-have at my Thanksgiving table!). For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving or add a pat of butter that will melt beautifully into the creamy surface. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce – a perfect complement to our Limoncello Spritz for a complete dining experience. If you’re serving a crowd, consider making it in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.

5. Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture as the spinach tends to absorb liquid when stored. Avoid freezing creamed spinach as the dairy can separate and the texture becomes grainy upon thawing.

6. Variations

One of the best things about creamed spinach is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs:

• Vegan Creamed Spinach: Substitute butter with olive oil, heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk (the canned variety works best), and Parmesan with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Creamed Spinach: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick. A teaspoon of Dijon mustard also adds wonderful depth.
• Extra Cheesy Spinach: Mix in shredded mozzarella, Gruyère, or even blue cheese for extra richness and flavor complexity.
• Bacon Lovers’ Version: Cook 2-3 slices of bacon until crisp, crumble, and stir into the finished dish for smoky goodness.

For more creative recipe ideas, browse our breakfast category or dessert section for inspiration.

7. Health Benefits

While this creamed spinach recipe is certainly indulgent, spinach itself is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K (just one cup provides more than your daily requirement of vitamin K!), as well as iron, folate, and fiber. The cream and cheese add calcium and protein to the mix. For a lighter version that still delivers on flavor, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. The key is balancing indulgence with nutrition – everything in moderation! For another surprisingly healthy treat, try our Potato Chip Toffee which combines sweet and salty flavors.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach in a pinch. Use about 10 oz of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained (squeeze out as much water as possible). However, fresh spinach will give you better texture and flavor.

How do I prevent my creamed spinach from being watery? The key is removing as much moisture as possible from the spinach after blanching. I recommend squeezing it in a clean kitchen towel – you’ll be surprised how much water comes out! Also, make sure your cream sauce has reduced sufficiently before adding the spinach back in.

Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently before serving. Add a splash of cream when reheating to refresh the consistency. For more make-ahead tips, check out our professional chef’s guide to creamed spinach.

Is creamed spinach gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just be sure your Parmesan cheese doesn’t contain any anti-caking agents that might include gluten.

9. Conclusion

This creamed spinach recipe is a timeless classic that deserves a place in every home cook’s repertoire. With its velvety texture, rich flavor, and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress both family and guests alike. Whether you’re serving it as part of a weeknight dinner or as an elegant side for special occasions, this dish delivers comfort and sophistication in every bite. The techniques you’ve learned here – proper spinach preparation, blanching, and creating a perfect cream sauce – can be applied to many other vegetable dishes as well. So why not make this creamed spinach tonight? Your taste buds will thank you! And remember, for all your cooking adventures, our terms and conditions page has helpful information about using our recipes. Happy cooking! 🍽️✨

Print