Creamed Spinach Bake

Name: Creamed Spinach Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter; 1/8 cup flour; 1 heaping tablespoon freshly minced garlic; 1.5 cups half & half; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 16 ounces fresh spinach leaves (or 1 box frozen leaf spinach); 2 cups parmesan cheese (divided); 5 strips crispy turkey bacon

Published: December 24, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lusciously Creamy: The combination of half and half and heavy cream creates a rich base that elevates the spinach flavor.
Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy cooks.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side for holiday feasts or casual weeknight dinners, it pairs well with various main dishes.
Cheesy Goodness: Topped with two cups of parmesan cheese, every bite is packed with cheesy flavor that everyone will love.
Crispy Crunch: The addition of crispy turkey bacon adds a satisfying crunch and savory element that complements the creaminess.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start making your Creamed Spinach Bake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Oven-safe skillet
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Oven-safe skillet: This versatile tool allows you to cook on the stovetop and finish in the oven without transferring to another dish.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your ingredients are spot-on for the best taste and texture.
Spatula: A good spatula helps you stir ingredients evenly, preventing lumps in your creamy mixture.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Base

3 tablespoon butter
1/8 cup flour
1 heaping tablespoon freshly minced garlic
1.5 cups half & half
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 cups parmesan cheese (divided)

For the Spinach

16 ounces fresh spinach leaves (or 1 box frozen leaf spinach, not chopped)

For Topping

5 strips crispy Turkey Bacon for topping
Optional: 2 teaspoons seasoning blend (recipe in notes)

How to Make Creamed Spinach Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking when your dish is assembled.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

Melt the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in flour to create a paste, cooking for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add Dairy Ingredients

Lower heat to medium-low.
Gradually add half & half and heavy cream while stirring continuously until it starts to thicken.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Stir in 1 cup of parmesan cheese until fully combined.
If the mixture is too thick, add a little more cream or half & half to reach desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Gradually add spinach leaves into the mixture in batches.
Stir until they begin to wilt, ensuring all spinach is coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Seasoning

Sprinkle the remaining cup of parmesan cheese over the top.
Optionally, add your favorite seasoning blend for extra flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown on top.
As soon as it comes out of the oven, sprinkle crispy diced turkey bacon on top for added crunch.

Now you’ve created a delicious Creamed Spinach Bake that’s sure to impress at any gathering! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals. It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying, making it an excellent addition to any table. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish with Steak

Pair this dish with grilled or pan-seared steak for a classic combo. The creamy spinach complements the meat beautifully.

With Roasted Chicken

Serve alongside roasted chicken for a comforting meal. The flavors meld nicely, and the texture contrasts perfectly.

On a Bed of Rice

Spoon the Creamed Spinach Bake over a mound of fluffy rice for an easy yet delightful serving option. This adds substance and makes for a filling plate.

In a Wrap

Use it as a delicious filling in wraps or pita pockets. Combine with grilled vegetables or turkey for a nutritious lunch option.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

This dish is ideal for holiday gatherings. Serve it alongside other festive dishes to impress your guests with its rich flavors.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

Enhance presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. This adds color and freshness to the dish.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Bake

Perfecting your Creamed Spinach Bake can take this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure it’s always a hit.

Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach offers better texture and flavor than frozen. If using frozen, be sure to drain it well.
Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute some of the heavy cream with broth or additional half & half.
Add spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper to bring new flavors into the mix.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your bake while it’s in the oven to avoid over-browning the cheese topping.
Customize toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings; try breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan for added crunch!

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake works wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavor and creamy texture. Consider adding any of these options to your meal plan.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs well.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy-roasted Brussels sprouts add texture and a hint of bitterness that balances the richness.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad loaded with vegetables can offer freshness alongside the creamy bake.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender, grilled asparagus spears provide a pop of color and flavor that enhances the meal.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins serve as an excellent contrast to the savory spinach bake, adding variety.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that still gives you volume on your plate; season it lightly for extra flavor.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing counterpoint to the heaviness of the bake.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender add sweetness and make a nutritious pairing for this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can elevate your Creamed Spinach Bake from good to great. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Overcooking the Spinach: Cooking spinach too long can make it mushy. Add it in batches and stir until just wilted for a better texture.
Ignoring the Cheese Temperature: Cold cheese doesn’t melt well. Allow your Parmesan cheese to come to room temperature before mixing it in for a smoother consistency.
Skipping the Seasoning: A bland dish can ruin the experience. Always taste and adjust seasoning before baking; consider adding spices or a seasoning blend for extra flavor.
Using the Wrong Pan: Not all pans are oven-safe. Ensure you’re using an oven-safe skillet for cooking and baking your creamed spinach properly.
Not Baking Long Enough: Underbaking may lead to a soupy texture. Bake until the top is golden brown for that perfect cheesy crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover creamed spinach bake in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Bake

You can freeze it for up to 2 months.
Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Bake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Creamed Spinach Bake.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to your dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use more half & half or milk as an alternative if you want a lighter version of this recipe.

How do I make my Creamed Spinach Bake spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture while cooking for a flavorful kick!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and then bake just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Spinach Bake is not only creamy and comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding different cheeses or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a delightful side dish that’s sure to impress!

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