Description
This classic Creamed Spinach recipe features tender spinach cooked in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce with a hint of garlic and nutmeg. Perfect as a comforting side dish, it combines the freshness of spinach with a luscious, cheesy cream base that’s easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Spinach
- 1 1/2 lbs fresh spinach (or 2 10-oz packages frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Spinach: If using fresh spinach, blanch it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, building a flavor base for the cream sauce.
- Simmer Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream begins to thicken slightly, creating a rich sauce.
- Combine Spinach and Cream: Stir in the prepared spinach, mixing thoroughly to combine with the cream mixture. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the spinach absorbs the creamy sauce and the mixture thickens further.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and ground nutmeg if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese has melted smoothly into the sauce and everything is well combined.
- Serve: Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish and serve hot as a delicious, creamy side dish that complements a range of main courses.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure to drain the spinach well to avoid watery creamed spinach.
- Fresh spinach offers a brighter flavor, but frozen spinach is convenient and works well if properly prepared.
- Optional nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that enhances the creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese adds umami and depth; for a vegetarian version, use vegetarian Parmesan or a similar hard cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
