Irresistibly Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach That's Simply Delightful
Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach is a simple yet indulgent side dish that brings warmth to your table.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180kcal
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with plant-based butter for a vegan option.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Provides aromatic depth; fresh garlic recommended for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Used to thicken the cream sauce; for a gluten-free version, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
- 1 cup Milk or Heavy Cream Forms the base of the sauce; heavy cream will yield a richer result, but almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free.
- 2 ounces Cream Cheese Contributes to the creamy texture and tanginess; Neufchâtel cheese makes a lighter alternative.
- ⅓ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Enhances flavor and offers a savory depth; for a vegan option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute.
For the Spinach
- 10 ounces Fresh Spinach Packed with nutrients; ensure to drain frozen spinach well to prevent excess moisture.
For Seasoning
- ⅛ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Adds warmth and complexity to flavor; omit if preferred.
- Salt & Black Pepper Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust to taste.
Instructions
How to Make Creamy Easy Creamed Spinach
- 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!
- Sprinkle the flour into the skillet while constantly whisking to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk or heavy cream while whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickens—approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan until the sauce is velvety and perfectly blended.
- 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.
- Finally, season your creamy concoction with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if desired). Let it simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes to meld the flavors before serving warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider garnishing with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of nutmeg. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.