Creamed Spinach Recipe

This Creamed Spinach Recipe is a delightful, rich side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smooth and creamy sauce made from heavy cream, this dish elevates the humble spinach to new heights. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout addition to your meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy a delicious side without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of buttery shallots, garlic, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese creates a savory sauce that perfectly complements the spinach.
• Versatile Dish: Serve this creamed spinach alongside roasted meats, pasta dishes, or as part of a festive holiday spread.
• Easy Ingredients: With simple ingredients like frozen spinach and heavy cream, you can whip this up anytime without a trip to the store.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing even to those who might be hesitant about eating vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this creamed spinach recipe successfully.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents splattering while stirring your creamy sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools help you stir the ingredients gently without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that every ingredient contributes perfectly to the dish’s flavor.

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 Sauce

• 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 Frozen Spinach

Thaw the 2 pounds of frozen spinach in a microwave or by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, squeeze out as much excess water as possible to prevent a watery dish.

Step 2: Sauté Butter and Shallots

In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the 1/3 cup of finely chopped shallots and sauté until they are soft—about 4 minutes. Next, add in the minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute while stirring constantly. Be cautious not to let the garlic brown.

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 freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Bring everything to a low boil while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes. You want the cream thick enough to coat a spoon.

Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese

Once your cream mixture is ready, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese until fully melted into the sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Finally, fold in your prepared spinach into the creamy sauce until well combined. Serve warm as an indulgent side dish!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Recipe

Creamed spinach is a versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Its rich and creamy texture pairs beautifully with various main courses, making it a favorite at dinner tables.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve alongside grilled chicken breasts for a delicious contrast of flavors and textures.

As a Topping for Baked Potatoes

• Spoon creamed spinach over baked potatoes for a hearty and satisfying combination.

With Roasted Lamb Chops

• Pair this creamed dish with tender roasted lamb chops to enhance the meal’s richness.

Alongside Turkey Meatloaf

• Use creamed spinach as an accompaniment to turkey meatloaf for a comforting dinner experience.

In Pasta Dishes

• Mix into pasta dishes for added creaminess, creating a unique twist on traditional recipes.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Recipe

Perfecting your creamed spinach is easy with just a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic will provide better flavor than dried or jarred versions.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or nutmeg according to your preference.
• Thicken the cream: Allow the cream to simmer longer if you prefer a thicker consistency that clings to the spinach.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for varied flavor profiles.
• Add some heat: For a kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or hot sauce to spice things up.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Recipe

Creamed spinach pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   A creamy classic that balances nicely with the richness of creamed spinach.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy sprouts add crunch and contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the spinach.

4. Steamed Asparagus
   Crisp-tender asparagus adds vibrant color and nutrition, complementing the creamy texture perfectly.

5. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast in flavor and are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

6. Herbed Rice Pilaf
   A fragrant rice pilaf infused with herbs makes an excellent base to serve alongside creamed spinach.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making creamed spinach can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Garlic: Cooking garlic for too long can make it bitter. Sauté it until just fragrant, about one minute.
• Not Squeezing Out Spinach Water: Excess water from the spinach can make your dish watery. Always squeeze out as much moisture as possible after thawing.
• Skipping the Nutmeg: Nutmeg enhances the flavor of cream and spinach. Don’t skip it; just a pinch adds depth.
• Using Low-Fat Cream: Heavy whipping cream is essential for a rich texture. Avoid low-fat alternatives as they won’t yield the same creamy result.
• Stirring Too Aggressively: Stir gently when combining ingredients to prevent breaking down the spinach too much. You want a nice texture!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as it may expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this creamed spinach recipe.

How can I make my Creamed Spinach Recipe healthier?

You can use less cream and add more vegetables like mushrooms or other greens for added nutrients while still keeping the flavor.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach can be used. You will need about 8 cups of fresh spinach, cooked down until wilted before adding it to the cream sauce.

What should I serve with Creamed Spinach Recipe?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted lamb. It also complements various grain-based dishes.

Can I customize my Creamed Spinach Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cheese varieties such as cheddar or herbs like thyme for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This creamed spinach recipe is not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite cheeses or spices. It makes a fantastic side dish for any meal, so give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamed Spinach

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in this creamy and flavorful creamed spinach recipe, a delightful side dish that elevates everyday meals. In just 20 minutes, you can create a velvety sauce with buttery shallots, minced garlic, and rich heavy cream, perfectly complementing tender spinach. Whether served alongside grilled chicken, roasted lamb, or pasta dishes, this dish is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, it’s an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic American side dish that will make even the pickiest eaters love their greens!

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Ingredients

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• 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)
• 2 pounds frozen cut leaf spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)

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Instructions

1. Thaw the frozen spinach using a microwave or overnight in the refrigerator. Squeeze out excess water.
2. In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add shallots and sauté for about 4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute without browning.
3. Pour in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg; bring to a low boil while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese until melted.
5. Fold in the prepared spinach until well combined. Serve warm.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 75mg