Creamed Spinach Recipe

This Creamed Spinach Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that transforms simple frozen spinach into a rich and creamy side dish. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or quick weeknight meals, this dish stands out with its silky texture and savory notes. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious addition that complements any main course beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream, garlic, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese creates a luxurious taste that elevates the humble spinach.
• Versatile Side Dish: Creamed spinach pairs well with various main courses, such as chicken or beef, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Freezer-Friendly: Using frozen spinach means you can always have the main ingredient on hand without worrying about spoilage.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this creamed spinach effectively, having the right tools is key. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution for sautéing ingredients without burning.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise chopping of shallots and garlic for optimal flavor release.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring all ingredients mix well.

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Ingredients

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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)

For the Spinach

• 2 pounds frozen cut leaf spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)

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!

How to Make Creamed Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Thaw the Spinach

Thaw the 2 pounds of frozen spinach. Once thawed, squeeze out as much excess water as possible to prevent a watery dish.

Step 2: Sauté Butter and Shallots

In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add 1/3 cup of finely chopped shallots. Sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Then add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute while stirring constantly. Ensure the garlic does not brown.

Step 3: Add Cream and Seasonings

Pour in 2 cups of heavy whipping 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. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until the cream thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Add in 1/2 cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese to the mixture. Stir until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Step 5: Mix in Spinach

Finally, stir in the prepared thawed spinach thoroughly into the creamy sauce until evenly combined.

This Creamed Spinach Recipe is now ready to serve! Enjoy this creamy delight alongside your favorite dishes.

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Recipe

Creamed spinach is a versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Its rich and creamy texture pairs well with various main courses, making it an excellent addition to your dinner plate.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken provides a lean protein that complements the richness of creamed spinach perfectly.

Serve with Beef Tenderloin

• The robust flavors of beef tenderloin balance the creamy spinach, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.

Accompany with Roasted Lamb

• Roasted lamb brings a savory depth, enhancing the overall taste experience when served alongside creamed spinach.

Enjoy with Turkey Meatballs

• Turkey meatballs offer a lighter option that pairs well with the creamy texture of the spinach.

Top with Crispy Onions

• For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle crispy onions on top of your creamed spinach before serving.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Recipe

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your creamed spinach, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic can enhance the overall taste significantly compared to dried versions.
• Squeeze out excess water: Ensure to thoroughly squeeze the thawed spinach to avoid watery sauce consistency.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
• Experiment with cheese: While Parmigiano-Reggiano is classic, try substituting with other cheeses like Gruyère for a unique twist.
• Add herbs for freshness: Consider incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or chives for additional flavor.
• Serve hot: Creamed spinach is best enjoyed warm, so serve it immediately after preparing for optimal enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Recipe

Creamed spinach pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to consider for your next meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   A creamy and buttery side that complements the rich flavor of creamed spinach beautifully.

2. Roasted Baby Carrots
   Sweet and caramelized baby carrots add a lovely contrast to the savory dish.

3. Wild Rice Pilaf
   The nutty flavor of wild rice offers a delightful texture pairing with creamed spinach.

4. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus brings freshness and brightness to your plate.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness balances out the creamy richness of the spinach nicely.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad adds a healthy touch while providing extra nutrients alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making creamed spinach can be simple, but common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using watery spinach: If the spinach is not properly squeezed dry, it can make the dish soupy. Ensure you remove excess water after thawing.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can become bitter if browned. Sauté it just until fragrant and soft to keep its flavor bright.
• Skimping on seasoning: Creamed spinach needs flavor! Don’t be afraid to use enough salt and spices like nutmeg to enhance the taste.
• Not allowing cream to thicken: The cream should be thick enough to coat a spoon. If it’s too runny, cook it longer while stirring occasionally.
• Forgetting to melt the cheese properly: Adding cheese too quickly or at high heat can lead to clumping. Stir in cheese gradually over low heat until fully melted.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamed spinach in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Recipe

• To freeze, place cooled creamed spinach in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place spinach in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer spinach to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this creamed spinach recipe:

What is a Creamed Spinach Recipe?

Creamed spinach is a rich side dish made by combining cooked spinach with heavy cream and seasonings. It’s creamy and flavorful!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh spinach can be used; just sauté it until wilted before adding the cream mixture.

How do I customize my Creamed Spinach Recipe?

You can add different cheeses like cheddar or incorporate spices such as cayenne pepper for extra heat.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The total time is about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick side dish option.

Final Thoughts

This creamed spinach recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite cheeses or spices. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, it’s sure to impress your guests. Try this simple yet rich recipe today!