As the days grow shorter and dinner times feel rushed, there’s nothing quite like a comforting dish to bring warmth to the table. My foray into the kitchen led me to an incredibly simple yet indulgent side that quickly became a staple in our household—Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach. The moment the butter melts and mingles with fresh garlic on the stovetop, you’re enveloped in an irresistible aroma that promises something special. This dish strikes the perfect balance, with its velvety texture reminiscent of your favorite mac and cheese but packed with nutritious greens. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a show-stopping side for your next gathering, this creamy delight will elevate any plate. It’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal antidote to the mundane. Let’s dive in and create something delicious that everyone will adore!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach

Simplicity: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip this dish together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Rich, Velvety Texture: You’ll adore the luscious creaminess that mirrors your favorite comfort foods, creating a truly satisfying side dish.

Nutritious: Packed with spinach, this recipe delivers vitamins and nutrients while still being indulgent—no guilt here!

Versatile Pairing: Pairs perfectly with anything from roasted meats to baked potatoes, offering a delightful contrast to your main dishes.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this creamed spinach will have everyone coming back for more. Use it alongside a delicious side like Cream Cheese Chicken to make your meal even more enjoyable!

Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach Ingredients

For the Creamy Sauce

Butter – Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with plant-based butter for a vegan option.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic depth; fresh garlic recommended for best flavor.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons) – Used to thicken the cream sauce; for a gluten-free version, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Milk or Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Forms the base of the sauce; heavy cream will yield a richer result, but almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free diets.
Cream Cheese (2 ounces) – Contributes to the creamy texture and tanginess; Neufchâtel cheese makes a lighter alternative.
Parmesan Cheese (⅓ cup, grated) – Enhances flavor and offers a savory depth; for a vegan option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute.

For the Spinach

Fresh Spinach (10 ounces) or Thawed Frozen Spinach – Main ingredient, packed with nutrients; ensure to drain frozen spinach well to prevent excess moisture.

For Seasoning

Ground Nutmeg (⅛ teaspoon, optional) – Adds warmth and complexity to flavor; omit if preferred.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust to taste for your perfect creamy easy creamed spinach.

How to Make Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach

Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic!
Whisk Flour: Sprinkle the flour into the skillet while constantly whisking to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, which helps eliminate the raw flour taste and creates a nice base for your creamy sauce.
Add Milk or Cream: Gradually pour in the milk or heavy cream while whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickens—approximately 2 to 3 minutes will do the trick.
Incorporate Cream Cheese and Parmesan: Stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan until the sauce is velvety and perfectly blended. This is where the magic happens!
Mix in Spinach: If you’re using fresh spinach, add it in batches, allowing each batch to wilt before adding more. If using frozen spinach, mix it in all at once after ensuring it’s well-drained.
Season and Simmer: Finally, season your creamy concoction with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if desired). Let it simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm through and meld the flavors before serving warm.

Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of nutmeg for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Easy Creamed Spinach?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy delight with dishes that offer a symphony of flavors and textures.

Roasted Chicken: The crispy skin and juicy meat of roasted chicken create a delightful contrast with the velvety spinach, ensuring a balanced plate.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Stuffed with buttery goodness, these creamy potatoes complement easy creamed spinach, adding heartiness to your meal.
Grilled Salmon: The rich, flaky fish with hints of smoky flavor pairs wonderfully, enhancing the wholesome taste of spinach.
Herb-Crusted Pork Loin: The savory herbs and tender meat of the pork loin make a beautiful match, elevating your creamed spinach to new heights.
Quinoa Salad: Fresh, crunchy veggies in a light vinaigrette provide vibrant contrast, bringing freshness and healthiness to the creamy side.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce can brighten the dish, adding a fruity pop that works magic with the spices in the spinach.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the creaminess, creating an inviting duo that’s excellent for cozy family dinners.
Red Wine: Pairing this dish with a glass of smooth red wine can enhance the rich flavors, making your meal a memorable occasion.
Cheesy Breadsticks: Fluffy, cheesy breadsticks serve as the perfect vehicle for scooping up extra creamed spinach, bringing joy to every bite.

Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach

Feel free to put your own spin on this dish and make it uniquely yours!

Vegan Swap: Substitute all dairy with plant-based options like almond milk and vegan cream cheese for a deliciously creamy vegan version.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy this comforting side.
Nutty Addition: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch that perfectly complements the creaminess of the spinach.
Cheesy Flavors: Mix in a blend of different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist that elevates this dish even further.
Herb Infusion: Stir in freshly chopped herbs such as dill or basil to enhance the flavor profile and add a pop of color.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick that will excite your taste buds.
Different Greens: Experiment with other leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, or even collard greens, each bringing a unique flavor and texture.
Creamy Variations: Incorporate a splash of cream cheese or sour cream for an even richer flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.

Embrace the joy of cooking by trying out these variations and discovering a new favorite twist!

Storage Tips for Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and safety.
Fridge: Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave for a creamy revival.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. It can last for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen creamed spinach, reheat it on low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to preserve its creamy texture.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach in advance is a fantastic way to save time and enjoy this dish on busy weeknights! You can make the creamy sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply prepare everything through step 4, then let it cool and transfer the sauce to an airtight container. To maintain quality, store the spinach separately, as adding it too early can make it soggy. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce gently over low heat, stir in the spinach, and simmer for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. This approach ensures you get delightful flavors and textures, allowing you to enjoy your homemade meal without the fuss!

Expert Tips for Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach

Proper Roux: Cook the roux for at least one minute to eliminate the floury taste, ensuring a smooth creamy sauce.
Thickening Trick: If your sauce seems thin, adding more grated Parmesan can help thicken it to that desired velvety consistency in your creamy easy creamed spinach.
Flavor Enhancer: For richer flavor, sauté diced onions or mushrooms before adding garlic to deepen the taste of your creamed spinach.
Consistent Whisking: Whisking continuously while adding milk or cream prevents lumps and ensures your sauce turns out perfectly smooth.
Spinach Handling: When using frozen spinach, always drain it well to avoid excess water that can thin your sauce.

Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right spinach?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh spinach, look for vibrant, deep green leaves that are crisp and free from any dark spots or wilting. For frozen spinach, ensure it’s well-packaged without any signs of freezer burn.

What’s the best way to store leftover Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach?
To store your leftover Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach, let it cool completely then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days. Be sure to reheat it gently to maintain that lovely creamy texture!

Can I freeze Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach?
Very much! To freeze, first cool down the dish fully. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on low heat. You may want to add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

What if my sauce turns out too thin?
If you find your sauce is thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! To fix it, simply add more grated Parmesan cheese while gently stirring. This will help thicken the sauce. If you’re looking for an even thicker consistency, you can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry, then stir this in while simmering.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Good question! While Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach is suitable for humans, it’s important to avoid sharing any leftover with pets, as dairy can be hard on their stomachs. If you have allergies, please take care to substitute any ingredients that might cause a reaction—like using gluten-free flour if you’re sensitive to gluten.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
You bet! To enjoy a vegan version of Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach, simply swap out the butter for plant-based butter or olive oil, use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk, and substitute cream cheese and Parmesan with vegan alternatives. Nutritional yeast can give you that cheesy flavor you might crave!

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