Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the pure joy that is creamed spinach! It’s that creamy, dreamy side dish that just makes every meal feel a little more special. Seriously, who can resist the rich, velvety texture combined with the freshness of spinach? I’ve been making this for family gatherings forever, and every time, it disappears faster than I can say, “Who wants seconds?” It’s popular for a reason, and once you try making it yourself, you’ll see why it’s a staple on our dinner table. Trust me, this creamed spinach is not just a side; it’s an experience that elevates any meal to gourmet status! So, let’s dive in and whip up some magic together!
Ingredients for Creamed Spinach
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this creamed spinach shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound fresh spinach: Make sure it’s vibrant and fresh for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: This adds richness to our creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This will help thicken our sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup milk: Use whole milk for a creamier texture, but any milk works.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: This is where the magic happens—so luscious!
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all those flavors.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch that makes everything sing!
That’s it! Simple, right? These ingredients come together to create something truly comforting and delicious!
How to Prepare Creamed Spinach
Now, let’s get cooking! Making creamed spinach is a breeze, and I promise it’ll be worth every delicious bite. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering side dish ready in no time!
Step 1: Wash and Trim the Spinach
First things first, you’ll want to wash that spinach to remove any grit. Fill a large bowl with cold water and gently submerge the spinach. Swish it around a bit, then lift it out and allow any dirt to settle at the bottom. Give it a good rinse under running water, then trim off any tough stems. You’ll want only the freshest, most tender leaves for this dish!
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. You’ll want it to be bubbling, but not browning—just a lovely golden color! Once it’s melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. This is your roux! Gradually pour in the milk while whisking, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture starts to thicken, then add the heavy cream for that ultimate richness.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once your sauce is thick and creamy (it should coat the back of a spoon nicely), stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for just a couple of minutes to allow those flavors to mingle beautifully. Remember, this is where you can adjust seasonings based on your taste—don’t be shy!
Step 4: Cook the Spinach
Now, it’s time to add the star of the show! Toss in the fresh spinach and stir it into the creamy sauce. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts down and turns a vibrant green. It’s like watching magic happen right before your eyes!
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and incorporated. This is where the flavor really pops! Give it a taste, and if you think it needs a little more salt or pepper, go ahead and adjust to your liking. And just like that, your creamed spinach is ready to shine on your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Texture: The velvety, rich sauce hugs every leaf of spinach, making each bite a delight.
- Quick Preparation: You can whip this up in just about 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor Boost: The nutmeg and Parmesan elevate the flavor, making it taste like a gourmet dish.
- Versatile Side: It pairs beautifully with so many main dishes, from grilled meats to pasta.
- Comfort Food: This dish brings that warm, cozy feeling that only homemade food can provide.
Tips for Success with Creamed Spinach
To make your creamed spinach absolutely perfect, here are a few tips I swear by! First, always use fresh spinach—it’s the star here, and it truly makes a difference in flavor and texture. If you love a little extra kick, don’t hesitate to add minced garlic when you’re melting the butter; it’ll infuse the sauce with a wonderful aroma. Also, keep an eye on the sauce as it thickens; whisking continuously is key to avoiding lumps. Finally, taste and adjust the seasonings—trust your palate! These little tweaks will elevate your dish to the next level!
Nutritional Information for Creamed Spinach
Before you dive in, it’s good to keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. But typically, a serving of this delicious creamed spinach (about 1/4 of the recipe) contains around 250 calories, with 18g of fat, including 10g of saturated fat. You’ll also get 12g of carbohydrates and 4g of fiber, along with 8g of protein. It’s a rich side dish, but oh-so-worth it for that creamy indulgence!
FAQ about Creamed Spinach
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, frozen spinach works just fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your creamed spinach.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the spinach ahead of time, then combine them just before serving. This makes it a great option for holiday meals or dinner parties!
What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for creaminess without all the fat.
Is creamed spinach vegetarian-friendly? Yes! This recipe is vegetarian, making it a delightful side dish for anyone looking to add more greens to their meal.
Serving Suggestions for Creamed Spinach
This creamed spinach is not just a side dish; it’s a versatile companion to so many delicious meals! I love serving it alongside perfectly grilled steaks or roasted chicken for a classic pairing that never fails. It also complements baked salmon beautifully, adding a creamy contrast to the fish. And if you’re in the mood for something cozy, try it with pasta dishes—like fettuccine alfredo or even lasagna. Trust me, your dinner plate will thank you for this delightful addition!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For tips on cooking techniques, you can refer to Serious Eats for expert advice.
Print
Creamed Spinach: 5 Irresistible Secrets to Delightful Flavor
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamed spinach is a rich and creamy side dish made with fresh spinach and a flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Wash and trim the spinach.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously.
- Add the heavy cream and continue to cook until thickened.
- Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Remove from heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- You can add garlic for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Creamed Spinach, Spinach Recipes, Side Dish