This easy creamed spinach recipe brings together tender baby spinach leaves and a rich, flavorful white sauce. Perfect for a quick side dish that pairs beautifully with any main course, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Photos of Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe
While most of the ingredients are commonly found in your pantry or fridge, you might need to grab baby spinach leaves if you don’t usually keep fresh greens on hand. Also, make sure to have unsalted butter and parmesan cheese for that creamy texture and rich flavor.
Ingredients for Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe
Baby spinach leaves: Fresh and tender, they are the main ingredient for this dish, providing vibrant color and essential nutrients.
Unsalted butter: Used for cooking and adding a rich, creamy base to the sauce.
Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the white sauce.
Garlic cloves: Enhances the flavor with a subtle aromatic touch.
All-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
Milk: The liquid base for the white sauce, adding creaminess and richness.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity to the sauce.
Cayenne pepper: Provides a slight kick of heat, balancing the creaminess.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the flavors.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami-rich finish to the dish.
One reader, Isadore Deaton says:
This easy creamed spinach recipe is fantastic! The creamy sauce perfectly complements the tender spinach, and the hint of nutmeg adds a delightful touch. It's quick to make and absolutely delicious. A new favorite in our household!
Techniques Required for Making Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe
How to make a roux: Melt butter and whisk in flour, cooking until light golden. How to cook onions until transparent: Sauté onions in butter until they become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. How to cook garlic until fragrant: Add garlic to the sautéed onions and cook for about 30 seconds until it releases its aroma. How to thicken a sauce: Whisk milk into the roux and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. How to wilt spinach: Melt butter in a pan and add spinach in batches, wilting each batch before adding more. How to blanch spinach: Cook spinach in boiling water for one minute, then immerse in cold water to stop cooking. How to squeeze water from spinach: After blanching, press the spinach to remove excess water.
How To Make Easy Creamed Spinach
This creamed spinach recipe uses wilted spinach and combines it with a smooth and flavorful white sauce before it’s served with parmesan cheese.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 16ozbaby spinach leaveswashed and dried
- ⅓cupunsalted butterdivided
- 1onionchopped
- 3garlic clovesfinely chopped or minced
- 4tbspall-purpose flour
- 1cupmilkor half and half
- 1pinchground nutmegoptional
- 1pinchcayenne pepperoptional
- salt and pepperto taste
- 2tbspparmesan cheesegrated, to serve
Instructions
For the white sauce
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Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes until light golden.
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Add in the onion and cook until transparent, about 2-3 minutes, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Pour in the milk (or half and half), whisking constantly until the white sauce thickens (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg and cayenne (If using).
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If the sauce is too thick, add another 1/4 cup of milk to the sauce, whisking it through until reaching your desired thickness.
For the spinach:
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Melt the remaining butter in a separate pan, and add spinach in batches, wilting each batch before adding the next, until all spinach is wilted. Add a small spoon of water if the pan gets too dry.
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Alternatively: Cook the spinach in a pot of boiling water for just one minute; then immerse in a cold water bath to stop the cooking process. Squeeze out any excess water from the leaves and set aside.
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Season the cream sauce with salt, pepper, nutmeg and cayenne.
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Add wilted spinach to the cream sauce, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1757.04kcal
- Fat: 187.93g
- Saturated Fat: 118.63g
- Trans Fat: 7.44g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 48.60g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.30g
- Carbohydrates: 17.85g
- Fiber: 3.64g
- Sugar: 5.11g
- Protein: 10.19g
- Cholesterol: 497.31mg
- Sodium: 1043.59mg
- Calcium: 309.70mg
- Potassium: 853.74mg
- Iron: 3.78mg
- Vitamin A: 2123.14µg
- Vitamin C: 34.90mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Easy Creamed Spinach
When making the white sauce, ensure you whisk constantly when adding the milk to avoid lumps. If you notice any lumps forming, you can use an immersion blender to smooth out the sauce. This will give you a silky, creamy texture that perfectly complements the spinach.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Creamed Spinach
Use pre-washed spinach: Opt for pre-washed baby spinach to save time on cleaning and drying.
Minced garlic and onion: Use pre-minced garlic and onion from the store to cut down on prep time.
Microwave spinach: Quickly wilt the spinach in the microwave instead of using a pan.
Ready-made white sauce: Purchase ready-made white sauce to skip the sauce-making step entirely.
One-pot method: Cook the spinach directly in the white sauce pot to reduce the number of dishes.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe
baby spinach leaves - Substitute with kale: Kale has a similar texture and can be cooked down to a creamy consistency like spinach.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar fat content and can be used to sauté the onions and garlic.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile, though it is less intense than fresh garlic.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent and will create a similar creamy texture.
milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream will make the dish richer and creamier, though it will also increase the calorie content.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can provide a warm, slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika offers a milder heat and a smoky flavor that can enhance the dish.
salt and pepper - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor and also provide the necessary saltiness.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Presentation Tips for Easy Creamed Spinach
Use a shallow, wide-rimmed plate: This allows the creamed spinach to be spread out evenly, creating a more visually appealing presentation.
Create a base layer: Spread a thin layer of the creamed spinach in the center of the plate, leaving a clean border around the edge.
Add height with a ring mold: Use a ring mold to shape a small mound of creamed spinach in the center of the base layer, giving the dish an elegant height.
Garnish with microgreens: Top the creamed spinach with a small handful of microgreens for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Drizzle with a finishing oil: Lightly drizzle a high-quality extra virgin olive oil around the edge of the plate for added richness and a glossy finish.
Sprinkle with grated parmesan: Finely grate parmesan cheese over the top of the creamed spinach for a delicate, savory touch.
Add a touch of texture: Sprinkle a few toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs around the plate for a contrasting crunch.
Finish with a dusting of spices: Lightly dust the plate with a pinch of ground nutmeg and cayenne pepper for a subtle hint of spice and visual appeal.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Creamed Spinach
Medium-sized pot: Used to melt the butter and cook the white sauce.
Whisk: Essential for whisking the flour into the melted butter and for stirring the milk into the sauce to prevent lumps.
Knife: Needed to finely chop the onion and garlic.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and garlic.
Separate pan: Used to melt the remaining butter and wilt the spinach in batches.
Spoon: Useful for stirring the spinach and adding small amounts of water if the pan gets too dry.
Pot: An alternative tool for boiling the spinach if you choose to blanch it instead of wilting it in a pan.
Colander: Used to drain the spinach after boiling and before immersing it in a cold water bath.
Bowl of cold water: Needed to stop the cooking process of the spinach after boiling.
Cheese grater: Used to grate the parmesan cheese if it is not pre-grated.
Measuring cups: Essential for measuring the butter, flour, and milk accurately.
Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring the nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and parmesan cheese.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring the spinach into the cream sauce gently.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Creamed Spinach
- Let the creamed spinach cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled creamed spinach to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the creamed spinach:
- Divide the cooled creamed spinach into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Squeeze out any excess air from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and amount for easy reference.
- Frozen creamed spinach can be stored for up to 3 months.
- To reheat refrigerated creamed spinach, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- For frozen creamed spinach, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the mixture appears too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
- When reheating, be sure to stir the creamed spinach gently to avoid breaking down the spinach leaves too much.
- Avoid reheating creamed spinach multiple times, as this can affect its texture and quality. It's best to reheat only the portion you plan to consume.
How To Reheat Leftover Creamed Spinach
Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover creamed spinach to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dish, ensuring the spinach remains tender and the cream sauce stays smooth and creamy.
Reheat on the stovetop: place the leftover creamed spinach in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir gently and continuously to prevent the cream sauce from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen it up. Heat until the dish is warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Reheat in the microwave: transfer the leftover creamed spinach to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent the spinach from drying out during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the dish is heated to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cream sauce to separate or become grainy.
Reheat and refresh: for a fresh twist on leftover creamed spinach, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of nutmeg before reheating. You can also stir in some sautéed garlic or onions to give the dish an extra depth of flavor. Reheat using one of the methods mentioned above, and enjoy your revamped creamed spinach!
Random Fact About Creamed Spinach
A random fact about this creamed spinach recipe is that it is a classic side dish often served with steak or roast chicken. The white sauce in this recipe, also known as béchamel sauce, is one of the five mother sauces in French cuisine.
Is Making Creamed Spinach at Home Cost-Effective?
The easy creamed spinach recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like baby spinach, onion, garlic, and milk are relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of parmesan cheese adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD.
Is Creamed Spinach Healthy or Unhealthy?
This creamed spinach recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of butter and flour, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
- The milk or half-and-half adds additional fat and calories to the dish.
- Parmesan cheese, although used in a small quantity, also contributes to the overall fat and calorie content.
On the positive side, spinach is a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, the health benefits of spinach may be overshadowed by the high-fat cream sauce.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace some or all of the butter with olive oil, which is a healthier fat option
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
- Opt for low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk, to reduce the fat and calorie content
- Increase the amount of spinach in the recipe to boost the nutrient density of the dish
- Experiment with additional seasonings, such as garlic powder or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive amounts of fat and salt
By making these adjustments, you can create a creamed spinach dish that is both tasty and more aligned with a healthy eating plan.
Editor's Thoughts on This Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe
This creamed spinach recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. The use of nutmeg and cayenne adds a subtle depth, while the parmesan cheese provides a savory finish. The method of wilting spinach in batches ensures even cooking and retains its vibrant color. However, consider finely chopping the onion to integrate it more smoothly into the sauce. Overall, it's a comforting and elegant side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
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Why trust this Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe:
This easy creamed spinach recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and rich flavor. Using fresh baby spinach leaves ensures a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish. The white sauce made with unsalted butter, onion, and garlic adds a creamy, aromatic base. A touch of nutmeg and cayenne pepper provides a subtle warmth, while parmesan cheese finishes it off with a savory note. This recipe is straightforward, quick to prepare, and guarantees a delicious result every time.
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