Creamed spinach is a warm, comforting dish that mixes fresh spinach with a rich and creamy sauce. It’s tasty and perfect as a side for any meal!
I love how this dish makes healthy spinach feel like a treat. It’s my sneaky way of adding greens to my plate without anyone noticing! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the best flavor, but frozen chopped spinach is a great shortcut. Just remember to squeeze out as much water as you can!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, try using olive oil instead.
Heavy Cream & Milk: This combination creates a rich sauce. You can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk for a lighter option, but it might be less creamy.
Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, a sharp cheddar or pecorino can work too. Cream cheese adds extra creaminess, but you can skip it if you prefer a lighter dish.
How Do I Perfectly Thicken the Sauce?
Thickening the sauce is a key step in making creamed spinach. The roux, made from flour and cooked with onion and garlic, helps achieve the right texture. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- After cooking the onions and garlic, sprinkle the flour over the mixture.
- Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This removes the raw flavor of the flour without allowing it to brown.
- Gradually whisk in the cream and milk, then let it cook until the sauce bubbles and thickens slightly. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Patience is key here; rushing this step can result in a sauce that doesn’t achieve the creamy consistency we love in creamed spinach!
How to Make Creamed Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Spinach:
- 1 lb fresh spinach (or 2 packages, 10 oz each, frozen chopped spinach)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or shallots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamed spinach recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect side dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
If using fresh spinach, rinse it thoroughly under cold water. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 1 minute until it’s wilted. Carefully drain it and use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out any excess moisture. Chop the spinach coarsely. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s completely thawed and squeeze out any extra water as well.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (or shallots) and cook until they are softened and translucent, for about 3-4 minutes. After that, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. This will give your dish a wonderful aroma!
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour, ensuring it doesn’t brown. This step is essential for thickening the sauce.
4. Add the Liquids:
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Let it cook gently, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add Cheeses and Season:
Now, stir in the cream cheese (if you’re using it) along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until they are melted and well blended into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. These flavors will enhance the richness of the dish!
6. Combine Spinach and Sauce:
Add the prepared spinach to the creamy sauce and mix well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld. Taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve:
Serve your creamed spinach warm as a delightful side dish with steak, chicken, or any of your favorite entrees. Enjoy the creamy goodness!
Enjoy your rich and creamy creamed spinach!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen chopped spinach is a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding it to the sauce to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the spinach in advance, then combine them just before serving. This way, you can enjoy a fresh dish without the last-minute rush!