Delicious Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe for Comfort

When I first stumbled on Creamed Spinach during a late-night kitchen experiment, I had no idea I was about to find a new favorite comfort food with a twist! It started as a simple craving for something cozy, creamy, and packed with bold flavor. I wanted a creamy side dish that would stand out but still feel like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, fellow food lovers, this Creamed Spinach recipe flipped my weeknight dinners from “okay” to “oh wow!” in just one bite.

That night, the kitchen felt electric with the anticipation—would my garlic cream sauce come out silky and rich? Would the heavy cream spinach blend just right without being too heavy? Spoiler alert: it did. There’s something magical about the way the spinach wilts into that velvety sauce, making each bite smooth and uplifting. This particular creamed spinach comes together like a dream while offering that perfect balance of comfort with a kick.

I love how versatile this Creamed Spinach is. Whether you’re pairing it alongside a juicy steak, or testing it out as a spinach gratin with a crispy, cheesy top, it always brings the wow factor. Also, this recipe’s been one of my go-to weeknight winners because it’s quick yet feels delightfully special.

If you’ve been searching for a creamy spinach recipe that brings bold satisfaction without fuss, this one’s calling your name. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get ready to create creamy magic that’ll make you do a happy dance at the dinner table!

INGREDIENTS You Need

Ingredients for Creamed Spinach recipe laid out on kitchen counter

Here’s the bold flavor lineup for this Creamed Spinach that I’ve tested time and time again:

  • 2 lbs fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, squeezed dry)
  • 1 cup heavy cream – this heavy cream spinach base is what makes the sauce luxuriously smooth
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – adds that silky richness
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic cream sauce magic starts here!
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion – for that subtle sweetness
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – this gives an umami pop I love in my creamed spinach
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – just a pinch for warming depth
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – balance is everything!

No worries if you don’t have heavy cream on hand – I’ve swapped in half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a different but still delicious twist! You can grab these during your normal grocery run, so no extra trips needed.

This Creamed Spinach also shines when I add a handful of crispy shallots on top for extra texture—giving it a flavor boost that guests can’t get enough of.

If you’re pressed for time on busy nights, grab frozen spinach and some pre-minced garlic (the seasoning gods forgive me), and you’re halfway there. Store any leftovers airtight in the fridge, and trust me, it tastes just as good (even better) the next day.

This Creamed Spinach ingredient list is all about bold flavors that really work together!

Let’s Make Some!

1. First, let’s get your spinach ready! If you’re using fresh, wash it well and sauté it in a hot pan until fully wilted, then squeeze out any extra water. Frozen? Just thaw and squeeze—that extra moisture is the enemy here.

2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This is where the magic starts happening! Toss in the chopped onions and sauté until translucent and sweet, about 3 minutes.

3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells absolutely incredible. Your kitchen will be filled with that amazing garlic cream sauce aroma.

4. Lower the heat and pour in your heavy cream, stirring constantly. This starts your creamy side dish’s base. Add in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste—your taste buds get to call the shots here.

5. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring until melted and smooth. This is my favorite part of making Creamed Spinach – seeing it transform into cheesy lusciousness!

6. Now, fold the prepared spinach into the cream mixture. Don’t worry if your Creamed Spinach looks a little runny; it will thicken as it cooks further.

7. Simmer gently, stirring often, until the mixture thickens to your liking, usually 4-5 minutes. In my kitchen, this Creamed Spinach takes about 20 minutes total from start to finish—perfect for a weeknight winner.

8. Taste and adjust seasonings. If you want a little extra zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes gives it a subtle pop.

9. Serve warm and watch the smiles form!

While your Creamed Spinach is doing its thing, get ready for those amazing aromas that fill your kitchen and make mouths water. It’s creamy comfort food with a twist you won’t forget.

If you’re loving this creamy spinach recipe, you’ll go crazy for other bold favorites like my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells or these cheesy Spinach Parmesan Twists.

How to Serve Up This!

Creamed Spinach served as a creamy side dish with a sprinkle of grated cheese

This Creamed Spinach shines brightest with hearty mains like grilled steaks, juicy chicken breasts, or even a seared salmon fillet. People literally do happy dances when this Creamed Spinach hits the table alongside a smoky protein and a glass of bold red wine.

It’s perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special without the hassle. And for company? Top with crispy breadcrumbs or try it as a spinach gratin by baking with a crust of golden cheese and crunchy onions, like this fabulous Creamed Spinach Gratin with Crispy Onions.

Leftovers? No problem! Mix your Creamed Spinach into scrambled eggs the next morning or slather it onto a warm baguette for a quick open-faced sandwich. I’ve even tossed it into baked potatoes for an instant upgrade!

For a fusion twist, I experimented adding a dollop of Boursin cheese, giving it a garlic-herb kick that’s absolutely unreal—you can find a recipe for that here: Creamed Spinach with Boursin.

Every time I serve this Creamed Spinach, the reactions light up the room. It’s the cozy, bold flavor side dish that turns anything into a celebration.

FAQs:

Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Creamed Spinach?
Absolutely! This recipe is forgiving and perfect for those new to bold flavor cooking. My early attempts weren’t perfect, but the garlic cream sauce saved the day every time.

What if I mess up my Creamed Spinach? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!)
Even if your sauce is too thin or thick, you can adjust by simmering longer or adding a splash more cream. You’ll still end up with something delicious that everybody will love.

Can I prep this Creamed Spinach for busy weeknights?
Yes! I often prepare the spinach and sauce components separately ahead of time and combine when ready. This saves a ton of time.

Can I make this without heavy cream?
Definitely try this Cream-less Creamed Spinach for a lighter twist, using Greek yogurt and broth—it’s a different but tasty take.

How long does Creamed Spinach keep?
Stored airtight, it lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.

Can I freeze Creamed Spinach?
Freezing can change the texture a bit, but it works okay for cooking later in casseroles or baked dishes.

What variations do you suggest?
Try adding crispy bacon for smoky flavor or swapping Parmesan with Gruyere for a richer taste.

How do I get that crispy topping?
Make your own crispy onions or breadcrumbs and sprinkle them on top before baking – it’s pure magic!

I got hooked after trying this Creamed Spinach Gratin with Crispy Onions recipe. The contrast of textures takes it to another level!

CONCLUSION:

This Creamed Spinach brings me so much joy because it’s bold flavor, creamy comfort, and downright delicious all at once. It’s the kind of dish I make when I want to wow dinner guests or just treat myself on a hectic weeknight.

My Creamed Spinach Flavor Secrets:

  • Always use fresh garlic and butter to build that irresistible garlic cream sauce.
  • Don’t skip the nutmeg – it’s a game-changer for heavy cream spinach.
  • Fold in your spinach gently so it stays bright and fresh, balancing the richness.

I’ve tested three favorite variations: the basic creamy version from this recipe, a cheesy spinach gratin that’s perfect for holidays, and a fusion take with Boursin cheese that delivers a garlic-herb punch. Weeknight dinners get the creamy spin, while parties call for the gratin. When I want to shake things up, that Boursin blend is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

To all my fellow food lovers: trust your taste buds, get creative in your kitchen, and give this Creamed Spinach a whirl. I am super excited to hear about your flavor adventures and how this creamy side dish becomes a new favorite at your table. Let’s keep turning everyday meals into mouthwatering celebrations!

For more bold spin on spinach recipes, check out my Egg Muffins with Spinach and Feta – another weeknight winner that never disappoints.

Happy cooking!

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Creamed Spinach

Creamed Spinach is a rich and creamy side dish featuring tender spinach cooked in a velvety béchamel sauce, perfect for pairing with steak or roasted meats.

  • Author: Nyla
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened but not browned, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens to a creamy sauce, around 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted and tender, approximately 4-5 minutes.
  5. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the Parmesan cheese if using, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
  6. Remove from heat and serve warm as a side dish.

Notes

For extra richness, try adding a splash of cream cheese or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

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