Description
Creamed Spinach is a rich and velvety side dish featuring tender spinach folded into a garlicky, cheesy cream sauce. Perfect for holiday meals or a cozy dinner at home, this dish brings a steakhouse classic straight to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 pound fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained)
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped (optional)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk or half-and-half
4 ounces cream cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Rinse fresh spinach and remove any tough stems. If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion or shallot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk or half-and-half. Simmer until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
5. Reduce heat and add the cream cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Fold in the spinach until fully combined and warmed through. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
8. Serve hot as a side dish or over baked potatoes, pasta, or grilled meats.
Notes
Use baby spinach for tender results, but mature spinach works if chopped and stems removed.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend.
Don’t skip squeezing frozen spinach dry—excess water can ruin the creamy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Creamed Spinach, Easy Side Dish, Spinach with Cream Sauce