Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most exquisite Creamed Spinach you’ll ever taste! Forget those bland, watery versions you might have encountered; this recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and intensely flavorful side dish that rivals, and often surpasses, even the best steakhouse offerings. What’s more, you can achieve this culinary masterpiece right in your own kitchen with just 7 core ingredients and in under 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s an effortlessly elegant addition to any meal, particularly shining as a show-stopping side during holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Why This Creamed Spinach Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite
Creamed Spinach is a timeless classic for good reason, offering a delightful balance of earthy greens and luxurious creaminess. If you’re a fan of rich, savory flavors and enjoy popular dishes like spinach dip, you are absolutely going to adore this recipe. Unlike heavier spinach dips that can sometimes feel dense, our homemade creamed spinach boasts a lighter, more refined texture that melts in your mouth without being overly heavy. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute addition to your meal planning.
Beyond its ease and speed, the depth of flavor in this dish is truly remarkable. Each bite offers the fresh taste of spinach enveloped in a velvety sauce, enhanced by aromatic garlic and onion, and finished with a hint of savory Parmesan. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience that elevates any main course. We frequently feature it during the festive holiday season, where its vibrant green color and comforting creaminess make it a welcome companion to hearty roasts. Imagine it alongside a succulent pork roast, a perfectly cooked prime rib, or a golden-brown roasted turkey – it’s a match made in culinary heaven. It’s also fantastic with grilled salmon, baked chicken, or even as a luxurious topping for baked potatoes. This recipe proves that sometimes, the simplest ingredients, when prepared with care, yield the most impressive results.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Creamed Spinach
Achieving that perfect steakhouse-quality creamed spinach at home is surprisingly simple, especially when you start with a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and the signature creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each ingredient is important for this easy creamed spinach recipe:
- Fresh Spinach: The star of our dish! We highly recommend using fresh spinach for its vibrant flavor and tender texture. Look for bright green, crisp leaves. While you can opt to cut off the tougher stems for a smoother consistency, many find leaving them on adds a rustic charm and doesn’t significantly impact the final texture. Just ensure it’s thoroughly washed to remove any dirt or grit.
- Yellow Onion: Provides a foundational layer of savory sweetness that complements the spinach beautifully. A small yellow onion, finely chopped, will sauté down to a translucent tenderness, releasing its aromatic compounds.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to elevating the flavor profile. Minced garlic adds a pungent, aromatic kick that is essential for a truly delicious creamed spinach. While jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, fresh cloves offer superior taste.
- Half and Half or Whole Milk: This is where the “creamed” aspect comes in. Half and half, a blend of whole milk and light cream, strikes a perfect balance, offering a rich, velvety consistency without being overly heavy like heavy cream. Whole milk can be used for a slightly lighter version, though half and half is preferred for its richer mouthfeel.
- Cornstarch or Flour: A thickening agent is necessary to create that luxurious, cohesive sauce. Cornstarch is my go-to choice as it creates a wonderfully smooth and glossy sauce without any residual flour taste. It also makes this recipe gluten-free. If using flour, you’ll need a slightly larger quantity (about 4 tablespoons for this recipe) and ensure it’s whisked thoroughly to prevent lumps.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for sautéing the aromatics. Butter not only prevents sticking but also imparts a rich, nutty flavor that forms the delicious base of the cream sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but highly recommended for an extra layer of savory, salty flavor and a delightful umami boost. Grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the hot spinach, adding a subtle tang and enhancing the overall creaminess.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings are all that’s needed to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Always season to taste!
How to Make the Best Creamed Spinach from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing this incredible creamed spinach is a straightforward process, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple steps to create a side dish that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen. The key is in the layering of flavors and careful management of the spinach to achieve the perfect texture.
- Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. Begin by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add your finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. This step mellows the onion’s flavor and creates a sweet base.
- Step 2: Infuse with Garlic. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the softened onions. Continue to sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
- Step 3: Wilt the Spinach. Now it’s time for the spinach! Add the fresh, washed spinach to the skillet. You may need to do this in batches, especially if you have a large amount of spinach, as it will look like a mountain in your pan at first.
- Step 4: Continue Wilting. Stir the spinach constantly as it cooks down. As the leaves wilt and shrink, you’ll create space to add more if you’re working in batches. Continue cooking until all the spinach has fully wilted and reduced significantly in volume. This typically takes a few minutes per batch.
- Step 5: Create the Creamy Base. In a separate small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the cornstarch with the half and half (or whole milk) until completely smooth and no lumps remain. This creates a “slurry” that will thicken your sauce without clumping. Pour this cornstarch mixture directly into the wilted spinach in the skillet.
- Step 6: Thicken the Sauce. Cook the spinach and cream mixture, stirring often, over medium heat. The sauce will gradually begin to thicken as it comes to a gentle simmer. Continue cooking until it reaches your desired consistency – typically a rich, velvety sauce that coats the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 7: Season to Perfection. Remove the skillet from the heat. Season the creamed spinach generously with salt and black pepper to taste. A good pinch of freshly grated nutmeg can also add a classic, subtle warmth if desired.
- Step 8: Stir in Parmesan and Serve. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and stir until it melts into the hot sauce, making it even creamier and more flavorful. Serve your homemade creamed spinach immediately, while it’s warm and luscious.
Pro Tips for Achieving Perfect Creamed Spinach Every Time
While this creamed spinach recipe is simple, a few expert tips can ensure your dish is consistently outstanding. These insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and enhance the overall flavor and texture of your homemade creamed spinach.
- Wilt Spinach in Batches: Fresh spinach looks like a lot, but it cooks down significantly. Don’t overcrowd your pan. Start with about 4-6 cups of spinach, let it cook down and create space, then add more until all of your spinach is incorporated and fully wilted. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming rather than sautéing.
- Choose Your Thickener Wisely: I swear by cornstarch for its ability to create a silky, smooth, and glossy sauce without any starchy aftertaste. It’s fantastic for gravies and sauces because it thickens quickly and smoothly. If you prefer to use all-purpose flour, you’ll need approximately 4 tablespoons for this recipe. Just make sure to whisk it very well with the cold half and half to form a lump-free slurry before adding it to the pan.
- To Trim Stems or Not: Some recipes suggest cutting off the spinach stems for a more refined presentation. While you certainly can do this, especially with larger, tougher spinach varieties, I often skip this step with baby spinach as the stems are tender enough and contribute to the overall texture without being noticeable. It’s a matter of personal preference and saves a bit of prep time.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasonings! The amount of salt and pepper needed can vary based on your personal preference and the saltiness of your Parmesan cheese. A small pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (about ⅛ teaspoon) is a classic addition to creamed spinach that subtly enhances its flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan cheese adds a wonderful salty, nutty flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A touch of Gruyère or a mild white cheddar can also be delicious additions. For an extra rich and tangy kick, a spoonful of cream cheese can be stirred in at the end, as discussed in the FAQs below.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Once the half and half mixture is added and begins to thicken, cook just until it reaches your desired consistency. Overcooking can make the sauce too thick or cause it to separate. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
Creamed Spinach Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh spinach is highly recommended for its superior flavor and texture in this recipe, you can use frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand. The key to success with frozen spinach is to thaw it completely and then squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. Spinach holds a lot of water, and if you don’t remove it, your creamed spinach will turn out watery. Once thoroughly drained, add the frozen spinach to the pan after sautéing the onions and garlic, and cook briefly to warm through before adding the cornstarch and half-and-half mixture. You’ll need about 10-12 ounces of frozen spinach to substitute for 16 ounces of fresh.
Can I add cream cheese to make it even creamier?
Absolutely! Adding 1 to 2 ounces of softened cream cheese can make this dish exceptionally rich and ultra-creamy, imparting a delicious tanginess. Stir it in at the very end, after the sauce has thickened and just before adding the Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is completely melted and smooth. Keep in mind, however, that incorporating cream cheese will make the dish much heavier and thicker, pushing it closer in texture and flavor profile to a classic spinach dip. While delicious, for a traditional, lighter steakhouse-style creamed spinach, I personally prefer to stick with just half and half and Parmesan cheese at the end for a perfect balance.
How should I store and reheat leftover creamed spinach?
Leftover creamed spinach can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much during refrigeration, you can add a splash of milk or half and half while reheating to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving on high heat as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?
Yes, this is a great make-ahead side dish, especially for busy holiday meals. You can prepare the creamed spinach entirely a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk or half and half if needed to thin the sauce back to your desired creaminess. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
Creamed spinach is a versatile side dish that complements a wide array of main courses. Its rich, savory, and slightly earthy flavor profile makes it an ideal accompaniment for hearty meats, poultry, and even some fish dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve this delicious side:
- Steak and Roasts: The classic pairing! Creamed spinach is famously served with prime rib, beef tenderloin, sirloin steak, or any robust cut of beef. Its creaminess provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the meat.
- Holiday Meals: A must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a festive pork roast, adding a touch of elegance and a pop of green color to your holiday spread.
- Chicken and Poultry: Serve alongside roasted chicken, pan-seared chicken breasts, or a comforting chicken pot pie for an elevated family meal.
- Fish and Seafood: Believe it or not, creamed spinach can also be a fantastic partner for certain seafood dishes. Try it with baked salmon, seared scallops, or grilled cod for a balanced and flavorful plate.
- Comfort Food: It makes a luxurious topping for baked potatoes, a flavorful addition to scrambled eggs, or even a filling for savory crepes. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Regardless of what you pair it with, ensure your creamed spinach is served warm to enjoy its optimal creamy texture and full flavor. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a dash of black pepper just before serving can add a nice finishing touch.
More Delicious Side Dish Recipes You’ll Love:
If you enjoyed this creamed spinach recipe, you might be looking for more delectable sides to complete your meals. Here are a few other highly-rated recipes that are simple to make and packed with flavor, perfect for expanding your culinary repertoire:
- Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Recipe
- Garlic Parmesan Baked Eggplant Recipe
- How to Steam Broccoli
- Roasted Potatoes and Carrots
If you try this easy and delicious creamed spinach recipe, please let me know your thoughts and how it turned out in the comments section below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed making and eating it! Your feedback is always appreciated.
Creamed Spinach Recipe
Anna
Pin Recipe
5
15
20
Side Dish
American
5 people
146 kcal
Ingredients
- 16 oz fresh spinach (see note)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup half and half
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Swirl it around the pan to coat.
- Add onion and cook for 3 minutes or until it’s translucent.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add 4 to 6 cups of spinach. Cook, stirring constantly until wilted. Add more spinach and repeat until all of the spinach is cooked down.
- Mix cornstarch with half and half. Add to spinach. Cook stirring often until thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Turn off the heat. Add Parmesan cheese and stir.
- Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Typically, a standard bag of fresh spinach is 8 ounces. For this recipe, you will need two such bags to achieve the desired quantity.
- Please note that the nutritional values provided are estimates and can vary based on specific product brands and preparation methods. Always consult a calorie counter you are familiar with for precise information.
Nutrition
Calories:
146kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
10g
|
Protein:
6g
|
Fat:
10g
|
Saturated Fat:
6g
|
Cholesterol:
28mg
|
Sodium:
402mg
|
Potassium:
608mg
|
Fiber:
2g
|
Sugar:
1g
|
Vitamin A:
8791IU
|
Vitamin C:
28mg
|
Calcium:
204mg
|
Iron:
3mg
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