There are times when I want vegetables but want the comfort food version. Easy Classic Creamed Spinach is just that, it's vegetables but for your soul. This side dish shouldn't just be a thing of the past. It's a delicious side dish that is a classic for a reason!
Spinach is wilted down and mixed with a combination of milk, cream and cheese to create a creamy and delicious side dish. This recipe is a diner staple that has endured and remains a comfort food favorite to this day.
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What is creamed spinach
Creamed Spinach is a spinach side dish that is common in steakhouses, diners and vintage recipes. It is considered a classic side dish as it has been a common staple in american cooking for quite some time. Creaming spinach means that it is cooked with heavy cream. This recipe is a good way to use up spinach, even if it is beginning to wilt.
What to serve with creamed spinach
This recipe pairs well with steak but can go with any protein. Pairing with baked chicken breast, salmon or ribeye steak are some of my favorite combinations.
How to thicken creamed spinach
If you do not remove the water properly from the spinach, it can lead to a very watery creamed spinach. To thicken a creamed spinach, create a slurry of cornstarch and water and add to the spinach. Mix to combine and cook on a low simmer until sauce has thickened to the desired consistency.
How to thaw frozen spinach
The easiest way to defrost frozen spinach is to place desired amount in a microwave proof bowl. Add a tablespoon of water and microwave for 30 seconds. Stir and continue to microwave until fully defrosted.
Place spinach in cheese cloth and squeeze excess water out. Spinach contains a lot of water so you'll need to squeeze a lot of excess water out.
Fresh or frozen spinach
You can use either fresh or frozen spinach for this recipe. If using fresh spinach, you will need to cook it down completely. Then put into cheesecloth to squeeze out the liquid. Leaving excess liquid in the spinach for this dish will make it watery and the incorrect consistency. Using frozen spinach requires less draining, though it will still need to be drained a bit.
Ingredients Needed
- 20 Oz Baby Spinach
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- ½ Yellow Onion Chopped
- 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
- ½ Cup Milk
- ¼ Cup Heavy Cream
- 4 Oz Cream Cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- ¼ Cup Shredded Parmesan
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Dutch Oven or similar
- Wooden Spoon
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
Storage Tips
Fridge: Easy Classic Creamed Spinach can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. To store, place in an airtight container and keep cold. To reheat, microwave until warmed.
Freezer. Creamed spinach can be store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Place in an airtight container before freezing. To reheat, defrost in the microwave until warmed through.
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Creamed Spinach
Equipment
Ingredients
- 20 Oz Baby Spinach
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- ½ Yellow Onion Chopped
- 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
- ½ Cup Milk
- ¼ Cup Heavy Cream
- 4 Oz Cream Cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- ¼ Cup Shredded Parmesan
Instructions
- Add spinach to a large pot of boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove once wilted and put in ice water. Drain and squeeze out as much excess water as possible (using a cheesecloth is recommended)
- In a dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Add garlic and stir to combine.
- Add milk, heavy cream and cream cheese and bring to a simmer. Simmer until cream cheese is melted. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Add spinach and stir to fully combine. Top with shredded parmesan and serve warm. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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About Michelle
Hello! I'm Michelle Boulé. I'm a photography nerd, cat mom and all around foodie. Join me in making some of my favorite comfort foods!
Traci says
A beautiful classic! Love how easy and versatile this creamed spinach recipe is...thanks for sharing 🙂
Mahy says
I can't believe how easy this creamed spinach recipe is. Following your instructions is a breeze, and so much fun!
Biana says
Looks great! Will be perfect to serve with grilled chicken of beef.
Megan Lehr says
Creamed spinach is one of my favorite dishes, but you really brought it to the next level with the combo of milk, cream, and heavy cream. Perfect ratios for the best flavor.
Dionne says
I just need to buy enough spinach to make this recipe but I am already excited - it looks so good!
Kathryn says
Yummmm I loved creamed spinach and your recipe looks fantastic! Love how you used cream cheese, genius idea! Can't wait to make this over the weekend.