Creamed spinach is a tasty side dish made with fresh spinach and a creamy sauce. It’s rich, smooth, and perfect for adding a pop of green to your plate!
I love how simple it is to make—just sauté, mix, and serve. Plus, it feels fancy, but really, it’s just spinach having a good time in a cozy, creamy hug! 🥬💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the best flavor and texture, but frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to squeeze out all the water before adding it to the cream. For a twist, you could use kale or Swiss chard.
Shallots: They add a mild sweetness, but you can substitute with onions if you don’t have them. Just use a smaller amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
Milk or Cream: Whole milk creates a nice creamy texture, while heavy cream makes it richer. If you’re looking for lighter options, use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. Keep in mind this will change the flavor slightly!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds flavor and creaminess. Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) are great substitutes. I often use a mix of different cheeses for extra flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Cream Sauce is Smooth?
To make the cream sauce smooth, there are a few tricks to remember. Start by cooking the flour briefly with the butter—this helps to remove any raw flour taste. Then, when adding milk, whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the pan gently; too high heat can make the sauce clump up.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to combine. This helps create a creamy texture.
- Let it cook for a couple more minutes to thicken, stirring often. You want it to coat the back of a spoon!
Following these steps will help you create a rich, smooth, and delicious creamed spinach that you’ll want to make time and again!
How to Make Creamed Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound fresh spinach (or 16 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely minced (or 1/4 small onion)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for richer texture)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamed spinach dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, so you can have it ready in about 20 minutes total. Perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
If you’re using fresh spinach, give it a good wash and roughly chop it. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s completely thawed, then squeeze out any excess water so it doesn’t make the dish watery.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Then, add the minced shallot and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it smells wonderful!
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
Now, sprinkle the flour over the butter and shallots in the pan. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Then, slowly whisk in the milk (or cream) while stirring to create a smooth sauce. Keep cooking and stirring for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
4. Combine with Spinach:
Once your sauce is thickened, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything together into that creamy goodness.
5. Add Flavor:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is tender and everything is heated through.
6. Serve:
Give it a taste and adjust any seasonings if needed. Then, transfer your delicious creamed spinach to a serving bowl and sprinkle with extra Parmesan for a lovely garnished finish. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy green goodness!
This creamy, cheesy spinach side is ideal with steak, chicken, or roasted meats. It adds a rich and luscious touch to any meal. Enjoy! 🥬💚
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach is a convenient option. Just make sure it’s completely thawed and excess water is squeezed out before adding it to the dish. This will prevent the creamed spinach from becoming too watery.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano works well as a substitute with a similarly rich flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast to add a cheesy taste.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamed spinach in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove while adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
How Do I Make It Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use low-fat milk instead of cream and reduce the amount of butter. Adding extra vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms or sautéed garlic, can also boost its nutritional value while still being delicious!