Creamed Spinach Recipe

This Creamed Spinach Recipe is a deliciously rich and creamy side dish that enhances any meal. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, it combines the goodness of spinach with a silky cream sauce. Easy to prepare, this recipe stands out for its comforting flavors and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and cheese creates a decadent sauce that perfectly complements the spinach.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Side Dish: This creamed spinach pairs well with various main dishes, including chicken, beef, or turkey.
• Freezer-Friendly: Using frozen spinach makes it easy to have this delightful dish on hand whenever you want a taste of comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamed spinach recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for sautéing ingredients and combining everything without spills.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.

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Ingredients

This creamed spinach is rich, flavorful, and a quick and easy side dish made with frozen spinach and heavy cream. The silky white sauce pairs perfectly with the tender spinach!

For the Creamed Spinach

• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup shallots (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 pinch nutmeg
• 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (grated)
• 2 pounds frozen cut leaf spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)

How to Make Creamed Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Thaw the Spinach

Thaw the 2 pounds of frozen spinach thoroughly. Squeeze out as much of the excess water as possible to avoid a watery dish.

Step 2: Sauté Butter and Shallots

In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add in 1/3 cup finely chopped shallots. Sauté until they become soft, approximately 4 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves for another minute while being careful not to let them brown.

Step 3: Add Cream, Salt, Pepper, and Nutmeg

Pour in 2 cups of heavy cream along with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Bring this mixture to a low boil while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until the cream thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese

Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese until fully melted into the cream mixture.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Finally, incorporate the thawed spinach into the creamy mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful creamed spinach as a side dish that everyone will love! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Recipe

Creamed spinach is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with various main courses. Its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor make it an excellent accompaniment to many meals.

With Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken offers a juicy and flavorful contrast to the creamy spinach, making for a satisfying plate.

Alongside Beef Steaks

• A hearty beef steak complements the richness of creamed spinach, creating a delightful dinner experience.

Served with Lamb Chops

• The tender and flavorful lamb chops enhance the creaminess of the spinach, adding depth to your meal.

As a Side to Turkey Breast

• Creamed spinach adds a luscious touch to lean turkey breast, balancing the dish beautifully.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pairing creamed spinach with roasted vegetables provides a colorful and nutritious contrast on your plate.

On Top of Baked Potatoes

• Use creamed spinach as a topping for baked potatoes for an indulgent twist on a classic comfort food.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Recipe

Achieving the perfect creamed spinach requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic will offer more robust flavors than dried versions.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Allow the cream to thicken slowly over low heat for the best texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for varied flavor profiles.
• Squeeze out excess water: Properly squeezing the thawed spinach prevents a watery dish.
• Add spices: Incorporating additional spices, such as cayenne pepper, can give your dish a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Recipe

Creamed spinach pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavor. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting blend alongside creamed spinach.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory creamed spinach.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad adds texture and nutrients while balancing the richness of the spinach.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green steamed broccoli not only provides color but also adds essential vitamins to your meal.

5. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf offers a simple yet flavorful base that pairs well with creamy dishes like this one.

6. Herb-Infused Couscous
   Light couscous tossed with herbs brings freshness and complements the creamy texture of the spinach perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a creamed spinach recipe, it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Overcooking the Spinach: Cooking spinach for too long can make it soggy and lose its vibrant color. Sauté it just until heated through before mixing it with the cream.
• Ignoring the Cream’s Thickness: Not allowing the cream to thicken enough will result in a watery sauce. Make sure to simmer until the cream coats the back of a spoon.
• Underseasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland flavors. Taste your sauce and adjust salt, pepper, and nutmeg as needed.
• Not Squeezing Out Excess Water: Leaving excess moisture in thawed spinach can dilute the flavor. Always squeeze out any extra water before adding it to your dish.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality shallots and garlic can diminish the overall taste. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor of your creamed spinach.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add grated cheese too soon, it may clump instead of melt smoothly. Wait until the cream is thickened before stirring in cheese.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the creamed spinach to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Ensure all excess air is squeezed out from bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat while stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream if it seems too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this creamed spinach recipe that might help clarify your cooking process.

How do I make my creamed spinach richer?

You can make your creamed spinach recipe richer by using heavy whipping cream or adding more cheese for depth of flavor.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just cook it down until wilted and then follow the same steps as using frozen spinach.

How long does creamed spinach last in the refrigerator?

Your creamed spinach recipe will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

What can I serve with creamed spinach?

Creamed spinach pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a side dish for holiday meals.

Can I customize my creamed spinach recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or different cheeses to enhance flavor according to your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This creamed spinach recipe is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish for various meals and can easily be customized with additional flavors. Give this simple yet delicious recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!