There’s something undeniably comforting about a side of perfectly executed creamed spinach. Velvety, rich, and utterly satisfying, this classic accompaniment transforms the humble spinach leaf into a dish worthy of steakhouse fame.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply elevating your weeknight meals, mastering the perfect creamed spinach recipe is a culinary skill worth having in your repertoire.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating the most delicious creamed spinach you’ve ever tasted—one that balances creamy indulgence with the fresh, earthy notes of spinach. Let’s dive into this timeless classic that has graced tables for generations!

What Makes This Creamed Spinach Recipe Special

This isn’t just any creamed spinach recipe. The perfect balance of ingredients creates a side dish that’s:

• Luxuriously creamy without being heavy
• Packed with nutritious spinach (that even veggie-skeptics will love!)
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Versatile enough to complement numerous main dishes
• Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining

“The secret to exceptional creamed spinach isn’t just in the cream—it’s in treating the spinach with respect and balancing the flavors just right.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this show-stopping creamed spinach recipe, gather these ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds fresh spinach (or 20 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup whole milk
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Spinach: Fresh spinach provides the best texture and flavor, but frozen works in a pinch. When using frozen, be sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture.

Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk provides excellent creaminess.

Cheese: While Parmesan is traditional, Gruyère or white cheddar make excellent alternatives. Looking for a flavor boost? Try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra tanginess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach

If using fresh spinach:

• Thoroughly wash the spinach and remove any tough stems
• Working in batches, blanch in boiling salted water for 30 seconds
• Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking
• Drain well and squeeze out excess moisture
• Roughly chop the spinach

If using frozen spinach:

• Thaw completely
• Squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel
• Break apart any clumps

2. Create the Base

1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat
2. Add the finely diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant (avoid browning)

3. Make the Cream Sauce

1. Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute
2. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, ensuring no lumps remain
3. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken
4. Add the nutmeg, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using)

4. Combine and Finish

1. Add the prepared spinach to the cream sauce, stirring to combine thoroughly
2. Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese
3. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and well-incorporated
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed

Expert Tips for Perfect Creamed Spinach

• Avoid Watery Spinach: The key to silky (not soupy) creamed spinach is removing as much water as possible from your spinach before adding it to the cream sauce.
• Mind the Heat: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer rather than a boil to prevent the cream from separating.
• Freshly Grate: For the best flavor and texture, grate your Parmesan cheese fresh rather than using pre-grated varieties.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the finished dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld perfectly.

If you’re looking for a hearty main dish to pair with your creamed spinach, consider our Swiss steak recipe for a classic combination that’s sure to impress.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	220
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	11g
Cholesterol	60mg
Sodium	280mg
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	4g
Protein	7g
Vitamin A	80% DV
Vitamin C	35% DV
Calcium	25% DV
Iron	15% DV

*Values are approximate and based on 6 servings

Delicious Variations to Try

Cheesy Creamed Spinach

Add an additional ¼ cup of cheese – try a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a stretchy, indulgent version.

Crispy Topped Creamed Spinach

Transfer your finished creamed spinach to a baking dish, top with a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.

Bacon Creamed Spinach

Start by cooking 4 slices of chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon, but keep 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat and use in place of some of the butter. Add the crispy bacon back in at the end.

Healthier Creamed Spinach

Substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream and use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version that still delivers on creaminess.

Perfect Pairings

Creamed spinach pairs beautifully with numerous main dishes. For the perfect meal, serve alongside:

• Savory strip steak with roasted potatoes for a classic steakhouse experience
• Roasted chicken or turkey for holiday meals
• Grilled salmon or other fish for a lighter option
• Mushroom risotto for a vegetarian-friendly dinner

Round out your meal with additional sides like honey glazed carrots or garlic mashed potatoes for a truly memorable feast.

Storage and Reheating

Creamed spinach stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While you can freeze creamed spinach, the texture may change slightly. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it up to 2 days in advance, refrigerate, and gently reheat when ready to serve. It’s perfect for holiday meal prep.

Why is my creamed spinach watery?

This typically happens when the spinach isn’t drained thoroughly. Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to your cream sauce.

Can I use spinach from a can?

While fresh or frozen spinach is preferred, canned spinach can work in a pinch. Be sure to drain it extremely well and adjust the seasoning, as canned spinach often contains added salt.

What other spices can I add to creamed spinach?

Try a pinch of white pepper, a dash of paprika, or even a hint of curry powder for a unique twist.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast in place of the dairy ingredients.

Elevate Your Dining Experience

Serving this creamed spinach in a beautiful dish can enhance your dining experience. For inspiration on creating a welcoming dining atmosphere, check out our guide to cozy cottage kitchen ideas that perfectly complement comfort food classics like this one.

When you’re looking for more side dishes to round out your meal, consider adding roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon to your menu for a delicious contrast to the creamy spinach.

Perfect Balance

This creamed spinach recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. The velvety sauce envelops the tender spinach leaves, creating a side dish that’s sophisticated enough for special occasions yet simple enough for everyday meals.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of creamed spinach or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Remember, the key to truly exceptional creamed spinach lies in quality ingredients and proper technique. Take your time removing excess moisture from the spinach and creating a smooth, flavorful cream sauce – your taste buds will thank you! 😋

Give this recipe a try, experiment with the variations, and discover your perfect version of this timeless classic. Your dinner guests will be asking for the recipe before the meal is over!