Creamy Homemade Creamed Spinach: Easy & Delicious Recipe.

Ready to transform a humble bag of spinach into a side dish that will steal the show? This isn’t your grandma’s bland creamed spinach; this version is luxuriously creamy, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this creamed spinach is the perfect addition to any meal. Get ready to impress!

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s incredibly delicious, with a rich and savory flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• The texture is perfect: velvety smooth with tender, wilted spinach.
• It’s surprisingly easy and quick to make, requiring minimal effort and time.
• It’s versatile! It’s a perfect side for almost any main course, from steaks to salmon to roasted chicken.
• It’s easily customizable; you can add your own special touch with cheese, garlic, or a pinch of nutmeg.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This creamed spinach recipe stands out because of its balance of creamy richness without being overly heavy. We use a combination of heavy cream and cream cheese to achieve a luxuriously smooth texture, and a hint of garlic and a touch of nutmeg elevates the flavors beyond the typical. Plus, we’re not just wilting the spinach; we’re sautéing it first to really develop its flavor and get rid of any excess water for a perfect consistency every time.

Ingredient List

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound fresh spinach, thoroughly washed
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (this creates the perfect creamy texture!)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the washed spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach has wilted and reduced in size, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese and heavy cream.
5. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your creamed spinach to the next level? Here are a few ideas:

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top before serving.
• Garlic Breadcrumbs: Toast some breadcrumbs with garlic and butter and sprinkle them on top for a crunchy texture.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your spinach is very well washed to avoid any gritty texture in the finished dish.
• Don’t overcook the spinach – you want it wilted but still slightly vibrant green.
• Use softened cream cheese so it blends into the sauce without clumping.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper!
• Use fresh nutmeg for the best flavor – it really makes a difference!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the skillet.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Try Gruyere, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• How do I store leftover creamed spinach? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I freeze creamed spinach? Freezing is not recommended as the sauce’s texture may change upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or reheated within a few days.

Variations and Customization Options

Let’s get creative! Here are some ways to personalize this creamed spinach:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Stir in cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor.
• Include some artichoke hearts, drained and chopped, for a Mediterranean twist.
• For a vegetarian variation, try adding sautéed mushrooms.
• Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives at the end for a fresher taste.

Serving Suggestions

This creamed spinach is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. It’s especially delicious alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, baked salmon, or pork tenderloin. It’s also a fantastic addition to holiday meals. You can even serve it as a filling for baked potatoes or as a topping for toast points. It makes a great, sophisticated addition to any meal!

Conclusion

This creamed spinach recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience that’s both easy and impressive. It’s creamy, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and you’ll discover a new favorite for your menu! Don’t forget to share photos of your delicious creation and subscribe to our newsletter for more yummy recipes! Happy cooking!