Creamed Spinach

The first time I made Creamed Spinach, I was hosting a small dinner party for friends who had never tried it before. I remember the moment vividly; the kitchen was filled with aromatic hints of melted butter and garlic sizzling in the pan. There’s something truly comforting about Creamed Spinach that makes it perfect for gatherings or simple family dinners. As I stirred the creamy mixture, I couldn’t help but think how this dish had always been a favorite in my household. It’s rich, decadent, and pairs beautifully with just about any main course.

As I served it, the bright green spinach contrasted beautifully against the creamy sauce, making it not only delicious but also visually stunning. One bite and my guests were hooked! They were surprised at how simple yet flavorful Creamed Spinach could be. It’s the kind of dish that feels special, yet it doesn’t demand hours of preparation. Now, every time I make it, I’m reminded of that lovely evening filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. This dish has earned a permanent spot on my table.

Main Ingredients for Creamed Spinach

When it comes to Creamed Spinach, the ingredients work in harmony to create that signature creamy goodness. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The main players, like butter, heavy cream, and fresh spinach, come together seamlessly to provide a comforting experience that is hard to resist.

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – This is the base for our creamy sauce, adding richness and flavor.
• 1 clove garlic, pressed or minced – Garlic enhances the overall taste, providing a fragrant backdrop.
• 1 cup heavy cream – This is what gives the dish its luxurious creaminess, allowing the sauce to cling perfectly to the spinach.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and freshly ground pepper – These seasonings elevate the flavors, balancing the richness of the cream.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg – Nutmeg adds a warm, earthy note that complements the cream beautifully.
• 1 pound fresh spinach leaves – The star ingredient, bringing freshness and vibrant color to the dish.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – This cheese adds depth, flavor, and a slight nuttiness to the overall dish.

How to Assemble Creamed Spinach

Making Creamed Spinach is a delightful experience where the ingredients come together to create something truly special. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a rich and creamy side dish that everyone will love. Let’s get started!

1. In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. As it melts, it will start to bubble slightly; you want to keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t brown too much. Once it’s fully melted, the kitchen will fill with a lovely buttery aroma.
2. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. You’ll notice the scent of the garlic starting to release; this is when it’s at its best. Stir it frequently to prevent burning, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir the mixture continuously, ensuring the butter and cream are well combined. The cream will begin to thicken as it heats up.
4. Lower the heat to medium and allow the cream to cook at a slow boil. This will take about 25 minutes, and you should stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pan. You’re aiming for the cream to reduce by half, creating a thick, luscious sauce.
5. Season the sauce with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the nutmeg. Taste it at this stage to adjust the seasoning to your liking. The flavors should come together beautifully, creating a savory base for the spinach.
6. Working in batches, add the fresh spinach to the cream sauce. Toss it gently to coat the leaves. As you add the spinach, you’ll see it start to wilt down, releasing its juices and deepening the flavor of the cream.
7. Continue adding the spinach until all of it is incorporated. The last batch should be just beginning to wilt. This ensures that it retains its vibrant color and some texture.
8. Now, fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted, and you have a beautifully creamy mixture. The cheese not only adds flavor but also enhances the creaminess.
9. Remove the pan from heat. Remember that the spinach will continue to cook a little after you take it off the stove, so don’t worry if it seems slightly undercooked. It should look a vibrant green and glistening.
10. Sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm. This adds a beautiful finishing touch as it melts slightly over the hot spinach.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to personalize your Creamed Spinach, there are many fun ways to change things up. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier dish.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that balances the creaminess.
• Cream alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with mascarpone for a different creamy texture.
• Nutty finishes: Top with toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Herb additions: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or chives just before serving for an added layer of flavor.

How to Serve Creamed Spinach

Serving Creamed Spinach is an opportunity to elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy this dish:

• Pair with grilled meats: This dish goes wonderfully with grilled chicken or steak. The creaminess complements the smoky flavors perfectly.
• Great for holidays: Serve it during festive occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas as a side to your main dishes.
• Perfect for a brunch spread: Include Creamed Spinach in a brunch buffet alongside eggs and pastries.
• Comforting sides: It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice, making for a fulfilling meal.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

Creamed Spinach is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful addition that can bring comfort and joy to the dinner table. Its rich, creamy texture and flavor make every meal feel special. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You might just find that it becomes a new favorite in your household!

Creamed Spinach

The ultimate comfort food, Creamed Spinach is rich, creamy, and undeniably delicious. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home. Make it tonight for a side dish that everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, pressed or minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 pound fresh spinach leaves
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. As it melts, it will start to bubble slightly; you want to keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't brown too much. Once it’s fully melted, the kitchen will fill with a lovely buttery aroma.
2. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. You'll notice the scent of the garlic starting to release; this is when it’s at its best. Stir it frequently to prevent burning, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir the mixture continuously, ensuring the butter and cream are well combined. The cream will begin to thicken as it heats up.
4. Lower the heat to medium and allow the cream to cook at a slow boil. This will take about 25 minutes, and you should stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pan. You're aiming for the cream to reduce by half, creating a thick, luscious sauce.
5. Season the sauce with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the nutmeg. Taste it at this stage to adjust the seasoning to your liking. The flavors should come together beautifully, creating a savory base for the spinach.
6. Working in batches, add the fresh spinach to the cream sauce. Toss it gently to coat the leaves. As you add the spinach, you'll see it start to wilt down, releasing its juices and deepening the flavor of the cream.
7. Continue adding the spinach until all of it is incorporated. The last batch should be just beginning to wilt. This ensures that it retains its vibrant color and some texture.
8. Now, fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted, and you have a beautifully creamy mixture. The cheese not only adds flavor but also enhances the creaminess.
9. Remove the pan from heat. Remember that the spinach will continue to cook a little after you take it off the stove, so don’t worry if it seems slightly undercooked. It should look a vibrant green and glistening.
10. Sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm. This adds a beautiful finishing touch as it melts slightly over the hot spinach.

Notes

If you happen to have leftovers, they make for a delightful lunch the next day. Just warm it up and enjoy it with some crusty bread or as a filling for a sandwich. It’s wonderful how Creamed Spinach can elevate even a simple meal.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.