Irresistible Creamed Spinach Recipe for Every Occasion

Creamed spinach is like that friend who can brighten up any gathering—smooth, rich, and always the highlight of the party. Imagine a bowl of vibrant green spinach enveloped in a velvety, creamy sauce that dances with flavors. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that tickles your taste buds and warms your soul.

Every time I whip up this delightful dish, I’m transported back to family gatherings where my grandma would serve it alongside the holiday turkey. The aroma would waft through the house, inviting everyone to the table. Creamed spinach is perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something comforting yet impressive. Join me as we dive into the world of this luscious side dish!

Ingredients for Creamed Spinach

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Spinach: Use about 1 pound of fresh spinach for a bright flavor and beautiful color; you can substitute with frozen if needed.

• Butter: Two tablespoons of unsalted butter will add richness and depth to your sauce.

• Garlic: About two cloves minced; garlic elevates the flavor profile beautifully.

• Heavy Cream: One cup gives that dreamy texture; feel free to substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.

• Parmesan Cheese: Half a cup grated for that cheesy goodness; it also adds a nice salty kick.

• Nutmeg: A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg enhances the warmth and complexity of the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamed Spinach

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by washing the fresh spinach thoroughly under cool water, then remove any tough stems. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute—being careful not to let it brown.

Step 3: Cook Spinach

Add the prepared spinach to the skillet with garlic, stirring until wilted—this should take about three minutes. If using frozen spinach, just ensure it’s heated through.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in one cup of heavy cream into the skillet with wilted spinach. Stir constantly while allowing it to simmer gently for about five minutes until thickened slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese along with a pinch of nutmeg. Continue cooking until smooth and creamy; season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your creamed spinach into a serving bowl or individual dishes; drizzle with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy! This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or stands tall on its own as a vegetarian delight.

Now that you have your creamed spinach ready, sit back and enjoy each creamy bite! This side dish is more than just an accompaniment; it’s bound to steal the spotlight at your dinner table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing fresh spinach with garlic until just wilted. Then, make the creamy sauce by blending cream cheese, sour cream, and parmesan. Mix everything together for a velvety finish that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Add a hint of nutmeg for warmth, toss in some crispy bacon bits for crunch, or even sprinkle in some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm over low heat on the stove or microwave in short bursts until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep that creaminess intact.

Sometimes, I whip up this creamed spinach when friends come over, and their eyes light up as they take their first bite. It’s those shared moments that make cooking so rewarding!

FAQs:

What is the best way to prepare creamed spinach?

Creamed spinach is best prepared by first sautéing fresh spinach in a pan with butter until wilted. Then, add heavy cream, garlic, and nutmeg for flavor. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for richness. Simmer until thickened, ensuring you maintain a smooth texture. This method enhances the natural flavors of the spinach while creating a creamy, delicious side dish.

Can I use frozen spinach for creamed spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach for creamed spinach. Thaw and drain the excess water before adding it to your recipe. Frozen spinach is convenient and often just as nutritious as fresh. However, fresh spinach provides a brighter color and taste, so choose based on your preference and availability.

How can I make creamed spinach healthier?

To make creamed spinach healthier, consider using low-fat milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. You can also add more vegetables like onions or mushrooms to boost nutrition without compromising flavor. Seasoning with herbs like oregano or basil instead of salt can enhance taste while keeping the dish light.

What dishes pair well with creamed spinach?

Creamed spinach pairs beautifully with various dishes. It complements steaks, roast chicken, and fish very well. Additionally, serving it alongside pasta or as part of a holiday meal adds a creamy contrast to richer flavors. Its versatility makes it an excellent side for many main courses.

Conclusion for Creamed Spinach:

In summary, creamed spinach is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream with the freshness of spinach, making it an ideal side for numerous meals. Whether using fresh or frozen spinach, adjusting ingredients can enhance its health benefits without sacrificing taste. This classic recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers versatility in pairing with various main courses. Enjoying this creamy dish can elevate any dining experience!

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Creamed Spinach

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Creamed spinach is the ultimate comfort food, combining fresh spinach with a rich, velvety sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic dish bursts with flavor from garlic and Parmesan, making it a standout side at family gatherings or dinner parties. Whether served alongside steak or enjoyed on its own, this creamed spinach recipe promises to elevate your meal and delight your taste buds.

• Author: Cathy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound fresh spinach (or 10 ounces frozen)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach: Wash fresh spinach thoroughly and remove tough stems. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain well.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
3. Cook Spinach: Add prepared spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted (about three minutes).
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for five minutes while stirring until slightly thickened.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Cook until smooth; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ½ cup (120g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, mix in crispy bacon bits or crushed red pepper flakes. - Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without losing creaminess. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain texture.