This Creamed Spinach Recipe offers a rich and creamy side dish that elevates any meal. With its delightful blend of flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or casual get-togethers. The silky white sauce combined with tender spinach makes this dish irresistible and a standout on your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish is ready in just 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese creates a luxurious taste that enhances the spinach.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for pairing with chicken, beef, or turkey dishes, it complements a variety of main courses.
- Freezer-Friendly: Using frozen spinach means you can whip up this recipe any time without worrying about fresh produce going bad.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect creamed spinach, some essential tools will make the process smoother. Having the right equipment ensures your dish turns out delicious every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for sautéing and simmering your ingredients without spilling.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping shallots and garlic.
- Chef’s knife: Ensures clean cuts and quick preparation of vegetables.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This creamed spinach is rich, flavorful, and a quick and easy side dish made with frozen spinach and heavy cream. The silky white sauce pairs perfectly with the tender spinach!
For the Creamy Base
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup shallots (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (grated)
For the Spinach
- 2 pounds frozen cut leaf spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)
How to Make Creamed Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Thaw the Spinach
Thaw the 2 pounds of frozen spinach, then squeeze out as much of the excess water as you can. This step is crucial to ensure your creamed spinach isn’t watery.
Step 2: Sauté Butter and Shallots
In a large pot, combine the 3 tablespoons of butter with 1/3 cup of shallots over medium-low heat. Cook until they are soft, about 4 minutes. Add in the 3 minced garlic cloves and continue cooking for another minute while stirring constantly to prevent browning.
Step 3: Add Cream, Salt, Pepper, and Nutmeg
Pour in the 2 cups of heavy cream along with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Bring this mixture to a low boil. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese
Add in the 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Stir until fully melted into the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Mix in Spinach
Finally, stir in the thawed spinach until well combined. Ensure every piece is coated in that luxurious cream sauce before serving.
Enjoy this delightful creamed spinach recipe as a perfect side dish that everyone will love!
How to Serve Creamed Spinach Recipe
Creamed spinach is a versatile side dish that can enhance any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it an excellent accompaniment to various main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy your creamed spinach.
With Grilled Chicken
- Pair this dish with grilled chicken to add a flavorful, creamy contrast to the savory meat.
Alongside Beef Steak
- A juicy beef steak complements the rich creaminess of the spinach, making for a hearty dinner.
As a Side for Lamb Chops
- The bold flavors of lamb chops work beautifully with the smooth texture of creamed spinach.
On Top of Baked Potatoes
- Spoon the creamed spinach over baked potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Mixed into Pasta Dishes
- Stir the creamed spinach into pasta for a creamy sauce that adds depth and nutrition to your favorite noodles.
With Turkey Meatballs
- Serve alongside turkey meatballs for a delightful combination of tastes that will please your palate.
How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Recipe
To ensure your creamed spinach comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will help elevate your dish and enhance its flavors.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic provide better flavor than dried alternatives, enhancing the overall taste.
Squeeze excess moisture: Properly squeezing out the water from thawed spinach prevents your dish from becoming watery.
Monitor heat: Cook over medium-low heat to avoid burning garlic while sautéing, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your creamed spinach before serving and adjust salt or pepper according to your preference.
Experiment with cheese: While Parmigiano-Reggiano is traditional, try mixing in other cheeses like feta or cheddar for different flavors.
Make ahead: Prepare this dish in advance and reheat gently on low heat for easy serving during busy meals.
Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Recipe
Pairing your creamed spinach with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideal options that work well together.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Smooth mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic add richness and creaminess that pairs perfectly with creamed spinach.Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet, tender carrots offer a beautiful color contrast and sweet flavor that balances the savory aspect of the spinach.Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables provides a refreshing crunch and contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the spinach.Grilled Asparagus
The slight char from grilling asparagus adds texture and earthy tones that harmonize well with the soft creamed spinach.Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn brings sweetness and juiciness, making it an enjoyable side alongside rich dishes like creamed spinach.Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains or meat offer an exciting presentation and flavor profile that complements creamed spinach nicely.Baked Zucchini Chips
Crispy zucchini chips provide a crunchy contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience when served alongside creamy dishes.Rice Pilaf
Delicate rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers lightness while soaking up any extra creamy sauce from your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your creamed spinach, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Overcooking the Spinach: Cooking spinach too long can make it mushy. Sauté just until heated through after adding it to the sauce.
Using Low-Quality Cream: Cheap cream may not thicken well and can affect flavor. Choose a good-quality heavy whipping cream for the best results.
Skipping Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip this spice; just a pinch can enhance the overall taste of your creamed spinach.
Not Thawing the Spinach Properly: If spinach is not thawed and dried, it can make your dish watery. Make sure to squeeze out all excess moisture before cooking.
Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can lead to bland creamed spinach. Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
Adding Cheese Too Early: Adding cheese too soon can cause it to clump. Stir in the cheese once the cream has thickened for a smooth texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Creamed spinach will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamed Spinach Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months; be sure to label with date.
Reheating Creamed Spinach Recipe
Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this creamed spinach recipe:
How do I make my creamed spinach recipe thicker?
To thicken your creamed spinach recipe, allow the cream to simmer longer until it reduces. You can also add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water if you need additional thickness.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh spinach, you should cook it down first before adding it to the cream mixture. You’ll need about 10 cups of fresh spinach as it wilts down significantly.
What can I serve with creamed spinach?
Creamed spinach pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, beef, or lamb dishes. It also complements baked potatoes or pasta for a hearty meal.
How long does this creamed spinach recipe last?
Properly stored, this creamed spinach will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for about 2 months without losing quality.
Final Thoughts
This creamed spinach recipe is not only rich and flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare. It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal, offering versatility with various main courses. Feel free to customize with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste!
Creamed Spinach
Indulge in this delightful creamed spinach recipe that transforms simple frozen spinach into a rich, creamy side dish perfect for any meal. This easy-to-make recipe features a luxurious blend of heavy cream and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, creating an irresistible flavor that pairs well with chicken, beef, or turkey. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. The smooth texture and cheesy taste make it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Enjoy this flavorful side dish that is not only quick to prepare but also freezer-friendly, making it convenient to whip up anytime you need a comforting addition to your dinner table.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup shallots (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (grated)
- 2 pounds frozen cut leaf spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen spinach and squeeze out excess water to prevent a watery dish.
- In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter and sauté the shallots for about 4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream along with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a low boil and stir occasionally for about 10 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese until melted.
- Mix in the thawed spinach until evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg