Creamed spinach is a classic side dish, often found on holiday tables or in fine-dining restaurants. Its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor make it a crowd favorite. Whether you’re preparing a holiday meal or simply want a luxurious side for a weeknight dinner, this creamed spinach recipe is an easy and delicious addition to any table.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make a perfect creamed spinach from scratch, using simple ingredients. We’ll also share tips on making it even more versatile and adaptable to your preferences.
What is Creamed Spinach?
Creamed spinach is a dish made from cooked spinach, cream, butter, and cheese. It is traditionally seasoned with garlic, nutmeg, and salt, offering a rich and comforting side dish. Creamed spinach can be served with steaks, chicken, or as part of a holiday feast.
The base of the dish typically includes cream cheese and heavy cream, which creates a rich, velvety texture. Parmesan cheese and nutmeg elevate the dish’s savory flavor profile, making it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients for Creamed Spinach
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make the perfect creamed spinach:
- 1 pound frozen chopped spinach (or 2 pounds fresh spinach, see notes)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredients
- Spinach: Frozen spinach is a great time-saver and has a smooth texture, while fresh spinach offers a more pronounced leafy texture if you prefer.
- Cream Cheese: Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang to the dish.
- Heavy Cream: The foundation for a smooth and rich sauce.
- Parmesan: For a cheesy, umami flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
How to Make Creamed Spinach
Here is a step-by-step guide to making this delicious creamed spinach recipe:
- Prepare the Spinach:
- If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water.
- For fresh spinach, boil a pot of water and blanch the spinach for 1-2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water, then squeeze out the excess water.
- Cook the Onions and Garlic:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Cream Base:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the heavy cream, cream cheese, and parmesan to the pan. Stir continuously to melt the cheese and cream cheese into the sauce, creating a smooth consistency.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Spinach:
- Stir in the prepared spinach, making sure it’s evenly incorporated into the cream mixture. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the spinach is heated through and the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Adjust the Consistency:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra cream or milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, continue cooking it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Serve:
- Taste the creamed spinach for seasoning and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
While the classic recipe is simple and delicious, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your preferences:
- Vegan Option: Swap out the cream cheese and heavy cream for non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
- Add Protein: For a heartier version, you can add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage into the spinach before serving.
- Extra Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar for an extra cheesy bite.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Too Watery: If the spinach is too watery after cooking, make sure you’ve squeezed out excess water from frozen spinach. If using fresh, be sure to squeeze it well after blanching.
- Too Thick: If the sauce is too thick, simply add a little extra cream or milk and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Not Creamy Enough: If you want an even creamier texture, add more cream cheese or Parmesan cheese to the dish.
What to Serve with Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach pairs wonderfully with many main dishes, especially meats and holiday entrees. Here are some great options:
- Steak: Creamed spinach is often served alongside a juicy steak or filet mignon. It’s the perfect balance to rich, savory beef.
- Chicken: Whether it’s pan-seared, roasted, or grilled, chicken pairs well with this creamy side.
- Pork: Serve alongside pork tenderloin or chops for a satisfying meal.
- Holiday Meals: This dish is a favorite for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners, complementing turkey, ham, or roast chicken.
- Fish: A light white fish like cod or halibut is also delicious with creamed spinach.
Can You Freeze Creamed Spinach?
While it’s not the best option due to texture changes, creamed spinach can be frozen if needed. Freezing may cause the spinach to become slightly watery, but it will still taste delicious:
- Freezing: Place creamed spinach in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of cream or milk if needed.
Substitutions and Variations (continued)
While the classic recipe for creamed spinach is already delicious, here are some additional ways you can elevate or customize this dish based on dietary preferences or flavor variations:
Vegan Creamed Spinach:
For those following a plant-based diet, you can easily swap the dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives:
- Non-dairy cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream as a substitute for heavy cream to keep the richness intact.
- Vegan cream cheese: Swap traditional cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative to maintain the creamy consistency.
- Nutritional yeast: For a cheesy flavor, add nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This will give the dish a savory, umami profile without the dairy.
Spicy Creamed Spinach:
If you love a bit of heat in your dishes, spice up your creamed spinach:
- Cayenne pepper: A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a mild heat to balance the creaminess of the spinach.
- Red pepper flakes: A few dashes of red pepper flakes give a pop of spice without overwhelming the dish.
- Jalapeño: Add some finely chopped jalapeños for a fresh, spicy kick.
Extra Creamy:
If you want to take your creamed spinach to the next level of creaminess:
- Double the cream cheese: If you love that tangy, rich flavor, feel free to add more cream cheese. It will make the dish even more luscious.
- Add mozzarella: For an extra cheesy, gooey texture, mix in some shredded mozzarella. This will melt beautifully and add a mild, milky flavor.
Herbed Variations:
Herbs can transform the flavor profile of creamed spinach, giving it a new dimension:
- Fresh basil: Add fresh chopped basil towards the end of cooking for a sweet, aromatic flavor.
- Rosemary or thyme: A small amount of finely chopped rosemary or thyme can offer a savory, woodsy flavor that pairs well with the creaminess.
Protein-Packed Creamed Spinach:
If you want to make this dish more filling or turn it into a main dish:
- Bacon: For a smoky and crispy contrast, crumble some cooked bacon over the creamed spinach before serving.
- Chicken or sausage: Add some cooked diced chicken or sausage into the spinach before serving for a hearty meal.
What Makes Creamed Spinach So Delicious?
The rich, velvety texture of creamed spinach comes from its creamy base, which is made with heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. These ingredients create a smooth, decadent sauce that complements the fresh or frozen spinach perfectly. The savory depth from garlic, onion, and nutmeg adds complexity to the dish. Here’s a breakdown of why each ingredient plays such an important role in creamed spinach:
- Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic, which brings out their natural sweetness.
- Onions and Garlic: These aromatics form the base of the dish, providing flavor that deepens during the sautéing process.
- Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese: The creaminess comes from these two ingredients, which create the luxurious texture and flavor that makes this dish irresistible.
- Parmesan Cheese: A salty, umami-packed cheese that adds depth to the creamy sauce.
- Nutmeg: A warm, nutty spice that elevates the flavors, making the dish feel comforting without being overpowering.
The Best Way to Cook Fresh Spinach
Fresh spinach is a great choice for creamed spinach, though it requires a little extra work to prepare compared to frozen spinach. To use fresh spinach in this recipe:
- Blanch the spinach: Boil a large pot of water and cook the spinach for about 1-2 minutes. This helps to soften the spinach and removes some of its natural bitterness.
- Drain and cool: After blanching, drain the spinach and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Squeeze out excess water: Fresh spinach holds a lot of moisture, so it’s important to squeeze it out thoroughly to avoid watery creamed spinach. This ensures the cream sauce stays rich and thick.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Creamed spinach can easily be made ahead and stored for later use. If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storing:
- In the fridge: Place leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish may thicken slightly as it cools, so you might need to add a little extra cream when reheating.
- In the freezer: While not the best option, you can freeze creamed spinach for up to 3 months. However, freezing can alter the texture, so be prepared for it to be a bit more watery upon reheating.
Reheating:
- On the stove: Reheat creamed spinach in a saucepan over low heat. Stir often and add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
- In the microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. Add a little cream if needed to restore its creaminess.
FAQs On Creamed Spinach Recipe
How to make the best creamy spinach?
To make the best creamy spinach, use fresh or frozen spinach, sautéed with garlic and onions in butter, and then simmered in a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Adding a pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavor, and using fresh spinach creates a lighter, fresher taste. Be sure to squeeze out excess water from the spinach to avoid a watery texture.
What is creamed spinach made of?
Creamed spinach is typically made from spinach, butter, garlic, onions, heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients create a creamy, rich, and flavorful dish that can be served as a side dish to meats like steak, chicken, or pork. Nutmeg adds a warm flavor that complements the creaminess.
How to make a cream sauce for spinach?
To make a cream sauce for spinach, start by sautéing garlic and onions in butter until soft and fragrant. Add heavy cream and cream cheese to the pan, stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Once the sauce thickens, add the spinach and stir until well-coated. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
What kind of cheese is good in creamed spinach?
Parmesan cheese is the most commonly used cheese in creamed spinach, offering a rich, savory, and umami flavor. You can also add cream cheese for extra creaminess, or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Gruyère cheese can be an interesting alternative if you’re looking for a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?
Yes, you can make creamed spinach ahead of time! Prepare the dish as directed and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore its smooth consistency.
Creamed Spinach Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the spinach:
- For fresh spinach, wash and chop. Sauté it in a large skillet with a bit of butter until wilted, then set aside. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water.
- Sauté the aromatics:
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Make the cream sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir continuously to ensure the cream cheese is fully melted into the sauce.
- Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Combine the spinach:
- Stir the cooked spinach into the cream sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing it to warm through and absorb the flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately as a delicious side dish to your favorite main course. Enjoy!
Notes
- Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: If using fresh spinach, you’ll need about 1 lb, which will shrink down as it cooks. Frozen spinach is more convenient and has a smoother texture, but ensure you squeeze out any excess water before using it.
- Make-Ahead: This creamed spinach can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture.
- Variations: Add shredded mozzarella for extra cheesy flavor or a splash of lemon juice for a fresh zing. You can also use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of the sauce.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 225 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Potassium: 460mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 3500 IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 180mg
- Iron: 2mg
