Creamed spinach is a rich and tasty dish made with fresh spinach, creamy sauce, and a hint of cheese. It’s the perfect side to brighten up any meal!
Trust me, even those who claim not to like greens will gobble this up! I love pairing it with steak or pasta for a delightful dinner. Super easy and so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for this dish, but you can use 10 oz of frozen spinach if needed. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained well. Fresh spinach has vibrant flavor, but frozen can be a true time-saver! I personally love the texture of fresh in this recipe.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to the dish. You can also use olive oil or margarine if you want to make it dairy-free. While butter gives a classic taste, oil can bring a different flavor profile.
Onion: I recommend using a small yellow or white onion for sweetness. If you’re short on time, shallots or green onions work too! They will give a milder flavor compared to regular onions.
Heavy Cream: This is vital for creaminess. If you want a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option (it will change the flavor a bit, but it works!).
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for a nice melt. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option, though it may taste slightly different.
How Do I Cook the Spinach Just Right?
Getting the spinach perfectly cooked is key to making your creamed spinach delicious. Here are some simple steps:
- Wash fresh spinach thoroughly and remove any tough stems. When it’s clean, it cooks better!
- Sauté the onions gently until they’re soft. This lays a sweet base for the dish. Too high a heat can burn them, so keep it medium!
- Add the spinach in batches if using fresh; this helps it wilt evenly without overcrowding the pan. If using frozen, just stir it until heated through.
- Once the spinach has cooked down, pouring in the cream and adding cheese creates a wonderfully creamy texture. Stir well to combine, letting the cheese melt in.
Take your time with each step to ensure the flavors meld perfectly, and enjoy the delicious result!
How to Make Creamed Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dish that can be whipped up to accompany your favorite main course!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
If you’re using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and remove any tough stems. If you’re going with frozen spinach, make sure it’s completely thawed and any excess water is squeezed out. This keeps your dish from becoming watery!
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté gently until it becomes translucent and soft, which should take about 5 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally so they don’t burn!
3. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. This adds a lovely aroma to your dish!
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
For fresh spinach, add it in batches, stirring until it wilts down. If you’re using frozen spinach, just toss it in and stir for 1-2 minutes until it’s heated through. Be sure to mix well!
5. Create the Cream Sauce:
Once the spinach is incorporated, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Mix everything together nicely to combine.
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and ground nutmeg, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. This is where the magic happens!
7. Season to Taste:
Now, add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. This will enhance the flavors. Remember, you can always add more later if needed!
8. Final Cooking:
Let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cream thickens slightly and both the spinach and sauce are perfectly combined.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your delicious creamed spinach to a serving dish and enjoy it warm as a tasty side. It pairs wonderfully with steak, chicken, or even on its own!
This creamy spinach dish is sure to be a hit, offering a rich addition to any meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach is a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the dish for the best texture and flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. For the cheese, use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to add a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What Should I Serve with Creamed Spinach?
This dish pairs beautifully with steak, roasted chicken, or even pasta. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a vibrant contrast.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much.
