This creamed spinach is a warm and cozy dish that makes greens fun! With creamy goodness and a touch of garlic, it easily becomes a favorite on any dinner table.
Personally, I love how it pairs well with steaks or chicken. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for those busy nights when you want something tasty! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the salt in your dish. You could use olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, shallots or green onions can be nice alternatives!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings strong flavor. For convenience, garlic powder works too, but cut down the amount as it’s more concentrated.
Milk & Cream: Whole milk gives a rich texture. You can swap with almond milk or cashew milk for a vegan-friendly version, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
Nutmeg: This warm spice enhances the creaminess. If you don’t have it, a bit of cinnamon or allspice can add a unique twist!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Spinach for Creamed Spinach?
Cooking spinach well is key to getting that perfect texture in creamed spinach. If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly to remove dirt since it tends to hold onto it.
- For fresh spinach, just chop and add directly to your creamy sauce without pre-cooking—it wilts down nicely in the dish.
- If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained. Squeeze out excess water so your dish isn’t watery.
This way, you can achieve that creamy goodness without compromising on flavor or texture!
How to Make Creamed Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richer creaminess)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and chopped (or use frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish, making this an easy and quick side dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Base:
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent—this will bring out the sweetness!
2. Adding Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for just about 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious aroma. Remember, don’t let it burn!
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will help thicken your creamy sauce without browning it.
4. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Now, gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking to prevent any lumps from forming! Cook this mixture until it thickens slightly and bubbles gently, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Seasoning the Sauce:
Add the ground nutmeg, along with salt and pepper to taste. The nutmeg adds a wonderful depth of flavor, enhancing the creaminess!
6. Adding the Spinach:
Now it’s time for the star of the show—spinach! Stir in your freshly washed and chopped spinach. Cook until it wilts and is heated through, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained before adding!
7. Adding Cheese (Optional):
If you want an extra creamy texture, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese at this point. It adds a lovely flavor, making your creamed spinach even more delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and serve the creamed spinach hot. It’s perfect as a side dish with meats or alongside a holiday feast. Enjoy your rich, creamy creation!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you choose frozen spinach, just make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish. It will save you time and still taste delicious!
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. Just ensure you choose unsweetened varieties to keep the flavors balanced!
Can I Store Leftover Creamed Spinach?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Pair with Creamed Spinach?
Creamed spinach is a great side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, such as steak or chicken, or you can serve it alongside roasted fish. It also complements hearty main dishes beautifully!