A rich and creamy spinach side dish made with fresh or frozen spinach, infused with garlic, and finished with a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This dish is the perfect complement to any meal, offering a luxurious texture and deep flavors that elevate simple ingredients into a comforting favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and flavorful – The Parmesan cream sauce gives this dish a rich, indulgent taste.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile – Works well as a side for meats, pasta, or even as a dip.
- Customizable – Can be made with fresh or frozen spinach, depending on availability.
- Great for special occasions – A classic side dish that fits well with holiday meals and dinner parties.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 16 oz fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic and flour, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add the spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes, until wilted and fully combined.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Remove from heat and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Variations
- Use different cheeses – Try Gruyère, cheddar, or feta for a unique twist.
- Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
- Enhance the flavor – A splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add depth.
- Add protein – Stir in crispy bacon bits or cooked chicken for a heartier dish.
- Go low-carb – Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or omit it entirely for a keto-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, add a small amount of milk or cream to loosen it while stirring.
What can I serve with creamed spinach?
It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, steak, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter, almond or oat milk, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Is creamed spinach healthy?
While rich and creamy, it provides essential nutrients from spinach. You can make it lighter by using low-fat milk and reducing the cheese.
Can I add mushrooms to this recipe?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms add great texture and flavor to creamed spinach.
How do I keep the spinach from being watery?
For fresh spinach, cook it briefly before adding to the sauce. For frozen spinach, squeeze out excess liquid thoroughly.
Can I bake creamed spinach?
Yes, transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly.
What can I use instead of flour to thicken the sauce?
You can use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour alternative for a similar effect.
Conclusion
Creamed spinach is a simple yet luxurious side dish that brings out the best in leafy greens. Whether served with a hearty steak or enjoyed as a creamy dip, this dish is a delicious and comforting addition to any meal. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a classic favorite that never goes out of style.
