Creamed Spinach: 5-Minute Savory Dream

Creamed spinach has been my go-to comfort food for years, a dish that instantly transports me back to cozy Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s. The way the rich, velvety sauce clings to each tender spinach leaf is pure magic, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. I’ve found that making a truly delicious creamed spinach recipe doesn’t have to be complicated, and this version is proof. It’s surprisingly easy creamed spinach to whip up, even on a busy weeknight, delivering that restaurant-quality taste I crave. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamed Spinach

This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl! Here’s why this creamed spinach side dish will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Incredible Flavor: It boasts a rich, savory taste with a perfectly creamy texture that complements any meal.
• Quick Prep: With just 5 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Surprisingly Healthy: Packed with nutrients from the spinach, it’s a wholesome addition to your plate.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples, making it an affordable way to elevate your dinner.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters often devour this comforting and flavorful creamed spinach side dish.
• Versatile Pairing: It’s the ideal accompaniment for everything from grilled chicken to a hearty steak.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Enjoy a gourmet experience without the fuss or expense.

Ingredients for Creamed Spinach

Gather these simple ingredients to create your perfect spinach in cream sauce. I love that most of these are pantry staples!

• 1 lb fresh spinach – or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained. Fresh spinach wilts down significantly, so don’t be shy with the amount!
• 2 tbsp butter – unsalted is my preference, but salted works too.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key for that aromatic punch.
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (optional) – adds a subtle sweetness and depth. Shallots are a great substitute if you have them.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half – heavy cream gives the richest, most luxurious sauce, but half-and-half is a lighter option.
• 2 oz cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess) – this little addition makes the sauce incredibly smooth and decadent.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – for a salty, nutty finish that really elevates the flavor.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – essential for balancing all the flavors.
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional) – a classic addition that enhances the creaminess and adds a subtle warmth.

How to Make Creamed Spinach

Learning how to make creamed spinach is incredibly rewarding, and this method ensures a perfect result every time. It’s a straightforward process that will have you enjoying a delicious creamy spinach recipe in no time!

1. Step 1: Prepare the spinach. If you’re using fresh spinach, give it a good rinse and trim away any tough stems. You’ll want to blanch it in boiling water for just 1–2 minutes until it’s nicely wilted. Immediately transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking, then drain it thoroughly and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Trust me, squeezing out that water is crucial for a non-watery sauce! If you’re opting for frozen, make sure it’s completely thawed and then squeeze out all the liquid.
2. Step 2: Make the cream sauce base. Grab a large skillet and melt the 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add your 2 cloves minced garlic (and the optional 1/4 cup chopped onion if you’re using it). Sauté these aromatics until they smell wonderfully fragrant and are nicely softened, which should take about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
3. Step 3: Add the dairy and thicken. Now, stir in the 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter touch) and the optional 2 oz cream cheese. Let this mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly. You’ll notice it becoming a bit richer and more luscious. This is the foundation of our incredible spinach in cream sauce.
4. Step 4: Combine everything. Add your prepared spinach to the skillet with the thickened cream sauce. Stir gently until every leaf is beautifully coated. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your liking. If you’re using them, add a pinch of nutmeg or the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese now for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Step 5: Simmer and serve. Let the mixture cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot, wonderfully creamy, and the flavors have melded together. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Serve your beautiful creamed spinach immediately as a delightful side dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamed Spinach

I’ve made this dish countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tips for perfect results:

• Squeeze, squeeze, squeeze! Seriously, get as much water out of your spinach as possible after blanching or thawing. A watery spinach base leads to a soupy sauce, and nobody wants that.
• Don’t skip the aromatics. The garlic and optional onion add so much depth and flavor. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, but don’t let them brown.
• Quality dairy makes a difference. While you can use half-and-half, full-fat heavy cream and cream cheese create an undeniably richer, more luxurious texture.
• Season generously. Spinach can be a bit bland on its own, so don’t be afraid to taste and adjust salt and pepper. A pinch of nutmeg or Parmesan adds that gourmet touch.

What’s the secret to perfect creamed spinach?

The real secret to the best creamed spinach lies in properly preparing the spinach to remove excess water and building a flavorful, thickened cream sauce. Using quality dairy and fresh aromatics is key. For more information on the nutritional benefits of spinach, you can check out resources like Nutritionix.

Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cream sauce and spinach separately up to a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Gently reheat both components together before serving. For tips on food storage, consult the FDA Food Safety guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamed spinach?

The most common pitfall is a watery sauce due to un-drained spinach. Also, avoid overcooking the garlic, which can make it bitter. For truly great homemade creamed spinach, focus on quality ingredients and proper technique. Understanding basic cooking techniques can help prevent common errors; explore resources on cooking techniques.

Best Ways to Serve Creamed Spinach

This rich and decadent dish is incredibly versatile and makes a fantastic addition to so many meals. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of elegance and comfort to your plate.

• Creamed spinach for steak is a classic pairing for a reason! The creamy, savory spinach cuts through the richness of a perfectly grilled steak beautifully. Try it with a ribeye or filet mignon.
• It’s also a wonderful accompaniment to other proteins like roasted chicken, pork chops, or even baked salmon. The creamy texture complements leaner meats wonderfully.
• For a vegetarian delight, serve this as a hearty main dish alongside crusty bread for dipping, or pair it with other roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It truly shines as a standout creamed spinach side dish.

Nutrition Facts for Creamed Spinach

This classic side dish is a delightful indulgence. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (approximately 1/2 cup):

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for lighter dairy or omit optional additions like cream cheese and Parmesan.

How to Store and Reheat Creamed Spinach

Proper storage is key to enjoying this delicious creamed spinach side dish later. Once it has cooked, allow the creamed spinach to cool down slightly at room temperature for about an hour. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. It should keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to store it for longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first. You can also reheat it directly in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems a bit thick. This method ensures you can still enjoy a perfectly creamy result, making it easy to how to cook creamed spinach whenever the craving strikes!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamed Spinach

What is creamed spinach?

Essentially, cream of spinach is a rich and comforting side dish made by simmering tender spinach leaves in a creamy sauce. This sauce is typically based on heavy cream or half-and-half, often enhanced with butter, garlic, and sometimes cream cheese or Parmesan for extra decadence. It’s a classic dish that’s incredibly satisfying.

Why is creamed spinach so popular?

Its enduring popularity stems from its luxurious texture and comforting flavor profile. It’s a dish that feels indulgent and special, yet it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The combination of tender spinach with a velvety sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfectly complementing hearty main courses and adding a touch of elegance to any meal. It’s pure comfort food!

Can I make creamed spinach healthier?

Yes, you can definitely make a lighter version! For a healthy creamed spinach alternative, try using lower-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and skip the cream cheese. You can also boost flavor with extra garlic, onion, herbs, and a smaller amount of Parmesan cheese instead of relying solely on fat for richness.

What’s the best way to cook creamed spinach?

The most common and arguably best method for how to cook creamed spinach is on the stovetop in a skillet, as detailed in this recipe. This allows you to control the sauce consistency and cook the spinach perfectly. While some might make a creamed spinach casserole by baking it, the stovetop method is quicker and often yields a creamier result.

Variations of Creamed Spinach You Can Try

While this classic creamed spinach is hard to beat, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch of this ultimate comfort food creamed spinach:

• Cheesy Spinach Gratin: Elevate your dish by transforming it into a spinach gratin recipe. After preparing the creamed spinach as usual, transfer it to a baking dish, top with extra Parmesan, Gruyère, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden brown. It’s a fantastic way to add a crispy topping!
• Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onion. A dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of chopped jalapeños also adds a wonderful warmth that contrasts with the creamy spinach.
• Vegan Creamed Spinach: You can achieve a delicious vegan version by substituting the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, using a plant-based milk like cashew or oat milk (unsweetened), and opting for nutritional yeast or a vegan cream cheese alternative for that creamy, cheesy flavor.
• Smoked Paprika Twist: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sautéed garlic and onion. This imparts a lovely smoky depth that pairs surprisingly well with the spinach and cream.

Creamed Spinach: 5-Minute Savory Dream

---

• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This creamed spinach recipe is simple, quick, and delicious. It’s made with basic pantry ingredients and comes together in minutes, tasting like a restaurant-quality side dish. The creamy sauce coats the spinach perfectly, creating a comforting dish that’s both elegant and hearty.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 2 oz cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the spinach: If using fresh spinach, rinse and remove tough stems. Blanch in boiling water for 1–2 minutes until wilted, then drain and squeeze out excess water. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain well, squeezing out excess liquid.
2. Make the cream sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic (and onion if using) and sauté until fragrant and soft, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the dairy: Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese (if using). Simmer gently until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Combine with spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet and stir until it’s fully coated in the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg or Parmesan for added depth.
5. Simmer and serve: Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the mixture is creamy and hot. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Squeeze spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery sauce.
• Use milk or half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Add extra cheese for a richer texture.
• Make ahead and reheat gently before serving.
• Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a baked version.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Creamed Spinach, creamed spinach recipe, how to make creamed spinach, best creamed spinach, easy creamed spinach, creamed spinach side dish, homemade creamed spinach, classic creamed spinach, spinach in cream sauce, creamy spinach recipe, spinach gratin recipe, how to cook creamed spinach, what is creamed spinach, why is creamed spinach popular, creamed spinach for steak, creamed spinach with garlic, spinach with heavy cream, spinach side dish recipe, comfort food creamed spinach, healthy creamed spinach alternatives, creamed spinach casserole