Description
This Best Creamed Spinach Recipe is a rich and creamy side dish featuring tender spinach cooked with a savory blend of cheeses, garlic, onions, and a hint of nutmeg. Perfectly smooth and flavorful, it’s an ideal accompaniment to steak, chicken, or any hearty main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Spinach
- 3 (10 oz) bags frozen chopped spinach
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 6 large garlic cloves, minced
Dairy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Spinach: Cook the frozen chopped spinach in the microwave according to package instructions. Once cooked, carefully remove the excess water by squeezing the spinach using cheesecloth, a tea towel, fine mesh sieve, or colander. Set the drained spinach aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Create Cream Sauce: Add the cream cheese to the skillet and stir continuously until it melts completely into the butter, onions, and garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and continue to cook for 2 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly. Then add the shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Heat Spinach: Fold the drained spinach into the cheese sauce mixture. Cook together for an additional minute to warm the spinach through and meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the creamed spinach immediately as a rich and satisfying side dish.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent a watery sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream.
- You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Nutmeg is optional but adds a warm depth of flavor to the dish.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a decadent vegetable side for holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamed spinach, spinach side dish, creamy spinach, cheesy spinach, easy spinach recipe, stovetop spinach
