Creamed Spinach: A Rich and Flavorful Side Dish

Creamed spinach is a decadent side dish that transforms humble spinach into a rich, creamy, and flavorful accompaniment. This classic dish, often found on steakhouse menus and holiday tables, combines tender spinach with a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s a perfect way to elevate any meal and add a touch of elegance to your dining experience.

The Charm of Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a favorite because it balances the earthiness of spinach with the richness of cream and cheese. This dish can be a luxurious side for various mains, including steak, roast chicken, or even a vegetarian entrée. It’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while indulging in a creamy, satisfying treat.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh spinach (or 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach:

Fresh Spinach: If using fresh spinach, rinse it thoroughly and remove any tough stems. In a large pot or skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the spinach in batches, cooking until wilted. Transfer the cooked spinach to a colander and press out as much moisture as possible. Chop the spinach coarsely and set aside.

Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thoroughly thawed and squeezed to remove excess moisture. Roughly chop if necessary.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce:

Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.

Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring the mixture remains smooth. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken and coats the back of a spoon.

Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. For a bit of heat, you can also add red pepper flakes if desired.

3. Combine and Serve:

Add Spinach: Fold the prepared spinach into the creamy sauce, ensuring it is well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is heated through and evenly combined with the sauce.

Adjust Seasonings: Taste the creamed spinach and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or nutmeg.

Serve: 

Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes.

Tips:

For extra richness, you can substitute some of the milk with additional heavy cream.

To make ahead, prepare the creamed spinach up to a day in advance and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Fresh spinach provides a better texture, but frozen spinach is a convenient alternative if fresh is unavailable.

Creamed spinach is a versatile and luxurious side dish that adds a touch of sophistication to any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner. Enjoy this classic dish as a delicious and indulgent addition to your culinary repertoire.