As I stood at my kitchen counter, the vibrant green of fresh spinach caught my eye, instantly reminding me of my grandmother’s creamed spinach. This creamed spinach recipe brings that cherished memory to life, serving up a deliciously creamy side dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. With buttery shallots and garlic mingling with a smooth, velvety sauce, it’s a versatile option perfect for weeknight meals or festive gatherings. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also easily adapts to dietary preferences, inviting everyone to the table. Plus, with a hint of lemon juice brightening the flavor, it’s hard to resist. Curious about how to whip up this irresistible dish? Let’s dive in and explore the magic of creamed spinach together!

Why Is Creamed Spinach a Must-Try?

Irresistible Comfort: This recipe offers a creamy, luscious texture that makes every bite feel indulgent, reminiscent of classic home cooking.

Dairy-Free Adaptability: Easily switch out heavy cream for coconut milk, making it suitable for various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Quick Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious side ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether paired with a succulent grilled chicken or served at holiday gatherings alongside turkey, this dish will delight family and guests alike.

Fresh and Flavorful: The sautéed garlic and shallots add a depth of flavor, while the fresh spinach offers vibrant color that brightens any plate.

Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside a hearty steak or as an elegant complement to dishes like Cobbler Dinner Casserole for memorable meals.

Creamed Spinach Ingredients

• Get ready to dive into a creamy adventure with these easy-to-find ingredients!

For the Base

Extra-virgin olive oil or unsalted butter – Perfect for sautéing your shallots and garlic; feel free to substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Fresh spinach – This vibrant green forms the heart of the dish; frozen spinach is an acceptable alternative if thawed and drained thoroughly.
Shallot – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish; you can easily swap it for onion if you’re in a pinch.
Sea salt – This key ingredient enhances overall flavor; adjust it according to your taste preferences.

For the Creamy Sauce

Garlic cloves – Imparts a delightful aromatic flavor; using fresh garlic will yield the best results.
Heavy cream – Essential for that rich, creamy texture; can be replaced with coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free option.
Dijon mustard – Introduces a subtle tang to the sauce; feel free to omit or swap it for yellow mustard if needed.
Cornstarch – Acts as a thickener when mixed with warm water; if you prefer, flour can be used as a substitute.
Fresh lemon juice – This brightens your dish beautifully; always opt for freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a lovely depth and a hint of spice; season to your liking.

Now that you have the Creamed Spinach recipe ingredients ready, let’s create something delicious together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamed Spinach Recipe for Delicious Side Dish

Step 1: Heat the Base
Begin your creamed spinach recipe by heating 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil or unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it melt completely, emitting a warm, inviting aroma. This will be the foundation for the rich flavors to come, and it should take about 1-2 minutes for the oil or butter to be ready for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic
Add 1 finely chopped shallot and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir gently to coat them in the oil or butter, and keep an eye on them to prevent burning. You want them tender and fragrant, which will deepen the flavor of your creamed spinach recipe.

Step 3: Incorporate the Spinach
Now, add 8 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet, using tongs to toss it with the sautéed shallots and garlic. Cook for approximately 2-4 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and vibrant green. Stir frequently to ensure even wilting and to help the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the spinach is wilted, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, mixing well to combine. Allow this mixture to simmer on medium-low heat for about 2 minutes, watching as it thickens slightly. The cream transforms the dish into a luxurious, creamy texture that clings to the spinach.

Step 5: Thicken with Cornstarch
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of warm water until smooth. Add this mixture to your skillet along with 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes. The sauce should thicken beautifully, creating a luscious coating around the spinach, enhancing your creamed spinach recipe.

Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season your creamed spinach with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last stir to combine all the flavors, then remove from heat. Serve this delectable side dish warm alongside your favorite main courses, and revel in the comforting, creamy goodness that this creamed spinach recipe brings to your table.

Creamed Spinach Recipe Variations

Unlock the endless possibilities with this creamed spinach recipe, and let your creativity flourish in the kitchen!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture that everyone can enjoy. The subtle coconut flavor adds a delightful twist!
Kale or Swiss Chard: Replace spinach with these greens for an earthy, robust flavor that’s just as vibrant and nutrient-rich. These leafy alternatives offer fun new textures and tastes.
Nutty Infusion: Sprinkle in a few tablespoons of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor burst. This adds an exciting element to each bite!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for those who love a little heat. It’s a fantastic way to elevate the dish and cater to adventurous palates.
Herb Upgrade: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley for a fragrant touch that brightens up the flavor profile. Each herb brings its own unique character to the dish.
Mustard Variations: Switch Dijon mustard with spicy brown mustard or even a dash of horseradish for a tangy twist. This provides an unexpected zest that livens up the creaminess.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for an extra layer of decadence. The salty, umami goodness creates a luxurious, savory vibe.
Vegetable Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for vibrant color and added flavor. This not only elevates the dish visually but also introduces a depth that enhances the overall experience.

Feel free to pair your tasty creamed spinach with a succulent grilled chicken or indulge it with a delightful bite of Freakin Fried Rice for a memorable meal. Enjoy the magic of personal touches as you create your perfect side dish!

Expert Tips for Creamed Spinach Recipe

Avoid Excess Liquid: Thaw and thoroughly drain frozen spinach to prevent watery creamed spinach; this ensures a rich, velvety texture.
Enhance Flavor: Adding grated Parmesan cheese can intensify the richness of your creamed spinach. A little goes a long way!
Experiment with Greens: Explore other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard in your creamed spinach for added nutrition and a delightful twist.
Adjust Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, simply add a splash more cream or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Season Wisely: Taste as you go, and season your dish at the end. Adjusting salt and pepper helps you achieve the perfect balance.
Make Ahead: Consider preparing the creamed spinach in advance. It reheats well, so you can enjoy it even during busy meal prep times!

What to Serve with Creamed Spinach?

Imagine a charming dinner table filled with vibrant colors and enticing aromas, where the creamy delight of your dish invites everyone to gather and savor the flavors together.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky, tender pieces create a wonderful contrast to the creamy texture of the spinach, making each bite a delightful experience.
Perfectly Seared Steak: A juicy, flavorful steak pairs beautifully with the richness of the creamed spinach, balancing heartiness with lush creaminess.
Roasted Salmon: The flaky, tender fish complements the creamy side dish while adding a hint of freshness, making for a well-rounded plate.
Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery slices add a satisfying crunch and warmth to your meal, perfect for scooping up that velvety creamed spinach.
Citrus Salad: A bright, refreshing salad featuring citrus fruits creates a zesty contrast that uplifts the creamy experience, adding layers of flavor.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring a classic comfort and harmony to your meal, tying in beautifully with the rich creamed spinach.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay enhances the dish’s flavors, while its crispness cuts through the cream’s richness, making it a delightful accompaniment.

Let your dinner be a canvas where the vibrant colors and delicate flavors of each dish create a masterpiece on every plate!

Make Ahead Options

These delicious creamed spinach can be easily prepped ahead of time, making your weeknight meals stress-free and efficient! You can sauté the shallots and garlic, and cook the spinach up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat before adding the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and cornstarch slurry. This method maintains the creamy texture and vibrant color of your creamed spinach, ensuring it remains just as delicious as when freshly made. Save time and impress your family with this effortless technique!

How to Store and Freeze Creamed Spinach

Fridge: Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamed spinach in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much during storage. Enjoy your delicious side dish!

Creamed Spinach Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best spinach for my creamed spinach?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach should be vibrant green with no dark spots or wilting. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your dish. Fresh is always preferable for the best flavor and texture, so whenever you can, opt for the freshest bunch you can find!

How should I store leftover creamed spinach?
After enjoying your meal, store any leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of cream or milk for a smooth consistency again.

Can I freeze creamed spinach and how do I do that?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze creamed spinach! Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It will retain its quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream or milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if my creamed spinach is too watery?
If your creamed spinach is too watery, usually caused by excess spinach or moisture from frozen spinach, don’t worry! You can thicken it by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with a little warm water, then adding it to the pan and stirring until it thickens. Simmer on low heat to cook out any raw cornstarch taste.

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust this creamed spinach recipe. Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk to make it dairy-free or use a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch instead of flour. This dish is vegetarian, but always check for any additional allergies when serving.

Can I prepare creamed spinach ahead of time?
Of course! To make life easier, you can prepare creamed spinach in advance. Cook it as per the recipe, allow it to cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little extra cream if needed to achieve that perfect creamy consistency!