Creamed Spinach – Velvety, Rich, and Restaurant-Style Comfort in Minutes

Creamed Spinach – Velvety, Rich, and Restaurant-Style Comfort in Minutes

Creamed Spinach is one of those timeless, luxurious side dishes that always feels a little indulgent. Silky, buttery, and perfectly seasoned, this recipe transforms fresh (or frozen) spinach into a velvety, savory, steakhouse-style classic. It’s the ideal companion to roasted meats, grilled chicken, steak dinners, or holiday feasts — but it’s just as satisfying served with simple rice or crusty bread. With a creamy garlic base, parmesan richness, and tender greens, this dish delivers comfort and elegance in every spoonful. Best of all? It comes together in under 20 minutes using pantry staples, and tastes like something you'd order at a high-end restaurant.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Servings: 4 Servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ onion finely minced
3 garlic cloves minced
1 lb fresh spinach or 10 oz frozen, thawed & well-drained
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup whole milk optional for thinning
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon nutmeg classic touch
½ teaspoon salt or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour optional for thicker sauce

Equipment

Large skillet or saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk

Method

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach

If using fresh spinach:
Add spinach in batches and let it wilt, about 2–3 minutes.
Squeeze excess liquid by pressing it to the side of the pan.
If using frozen spinach:
Ensure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry to avoid watery sauce.
Add directly to the skillet.

Step 3: Add Cream Base

Stir in heavy cream.
If you want a thicker sauce, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon flour and whisk until smooth.
Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until sauce begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add Seasoning & Cheese

Add parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
Adjust thickness with more cream or milk if needed.
Simmer another 2 minutes until everything is creamy and glossy.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot as a side dish or spoon over grilled steak, roast chicken, or baked salmon.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Up to 3 days in an airtight container

Freeze: Up to 2 months (texture softens slightly)

Reheat:

Stovetop: Warm gently with a splash of cream

Microwave: Heat in 20–second bursts, stirring often

🥄 Variations

Cheesy Spinach: Add shredded mozzarella or gruyère.

Garlic-Lovers Version: Add roasted garlic or extra fresh garlic.

Keto-Friendly: Use all heavy cream, no flour.

Spicy Creamed Spinach: Add red pepper flakes.

Healthy Version: Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt.

Bacon Creamed Spinach: Stir in crispy bacon bits.

Caramelized Onion Base: Adds deeper sweetness.

Lemon Creamed Spinach: Add ½ teaspoon lemon zest.

Nutty Variation: Add toasted pine nuts on top.

Mushroom Spinach: Add sautéed mushrooms before the cream.

❓ 10 FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes — it works beautifully as long as it’s well-drained.

Why is my creamed spinach watery?
The spinach wasn’t squeezed enough or the sauce wasn’t reduced long enough.

Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely — reheats very well.

Can I skip the nutmeg?
Yes, but it adds classic warmth.

Can I lighten this recipe?
Use half-and-half or low-fat milk (sauce will be thinner).

Can I bake it?
Yes — top with cheese and bake 10 minutes for a gratin-style dish.

Is creamed spinach healthy?
Spinach is nutrient-dense — use lighter cream options if desired.

Can I use baby spinach?
Yes — it wilts beautifully and has a tender texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and dairy-free parmesan.

Why is my sauce too thick?
Thin it with milk or cream a tablespoon at a time.

🏁 Conclusion

This Creamed Spinach is rich, velvety, and deeply comforting — everything a perfect steakhouse side should be. With its silky cream sauce, fragrant garlic, and tender spinach, it elevates any meal instantly.

Whether served alongside roasted meats, tossed with pasta, or spooned over grilled fish, this dish is indulgent, easy, and guaranteed to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.