This creamed spinach is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender spinach with a creamy sauce. It brings a wonderful taste and smooth texture to your table!
Honestly, it’s hard not to love this dish. It’s a great way to make veggies feel like a treat. I like to serve it with roasted chicken for a cozy meal that hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a vibrant color and texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach works fine. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid a watery dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness. You can substitute it with olive oil or vegan butter if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor, but you can use shallots for a milder taste. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder is also an option, just use sparingly.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be less rich. If dairy-free is your goal, try coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth. If you’re looking for a substitute, pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option will work well.
How Do You Cook Spinach Without Making It Watery?
Cooking spinach properly is essential to avoid a soggy dish. Whether fresh or frozen, the key is to reduce excess moisture. Here are the steps:
- For fresh spinach, rinse it thoroughly and remove thick stems. When you cook it, the moisture from the leaves will be released. Make sure to sauté long enough for the moisture to evaporate.
- If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible using a clean kitchen towel or a colander. This will help keep your dish creamy instead of soupy.
- Cook the spinach with the other ingredients, allowing it to wilt or warm through so that it integrates well with the cream and seasonings.
This technique will make your creamed spinach perfectly creamy and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamed Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh or Frozen Spinach:
- 1 lb fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Flavoring:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamed spinach recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but special enough to serve at a family gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
If you’re using fresh spinach, rinse it well, remove any tough stems, and roughly chop the leaves. If opting for frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained of excess water, ensuring you get rid of any moisture that could make the dish watery.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and cook it for about 3-4 minutes. You want it to be softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Cook the Spinach:
Add the prepared spinach to the pan, whether fresh or frozen. If using fresh, cook until it wilts and all excess liquid evaporates, about 4-5 minutes. If using frozen, simply warm it through until it is heated all the way.
4. Make it Creamy:
Pour the heavy cream into the pan and stir everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes so that the cream thickens slightly. This step is key for getting that rich, creamy texture!
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and ground nutmeg, letting it simmer for another 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your taste!
6. Serve:
Once everything is perfectly combined, serve your creamed spinach warm as a delightful side dish! It pairs beautifully with meats, potatoes, or any of your favorite main dishes.
This recipe brings a comforting touch to any meal with luscious, creamy spinach flavored with fragrant garlic and cheese. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach adds a vibrant flavor and texture. Just make sure to rinse it well, remove tough stems, and chop it before cooking. It takes a bit longer to wilt compared to frozen spinach, but it’s worth it!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese option or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. This will still give you a creamy texture while accommodating dietary preferences.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamed spinach a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to regain creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slowly on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may want to add a little cream for extra moisture.
