Description
Creamed Spinach is a rich and creamy side dish featuring tender spinach cooked in a buttery, garlicky sauce with a hint of nutmeg and Parmesan cheese. This comforting recipe is perfect for pairing with steak, chicken, or as a standalone vegetable dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Dairy
- 4 tablespoons Butter (divided)
- 1 Small Onion (finely diced)
- 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 15 – 16 ounces Frozen Chopped Spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)
- ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Spices & Dry Ingredients
- 1½ teaspoon Salt (plus extra at the end if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg (freshly grated is best)
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Flour (all-purpose)
Instructions
- Heat Butter and Sauté Onion: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat until melted and foamy. Add the finely diced onions and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.
- Add Spinach and Seasonings: Stir in the thawed and squeezed dry spinach, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for 2 to 2½ minutes, stirring frequently to combine and develop flavors.
- Add Remaining Butter: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt completely.
- Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the spinach mixture while stirring constantly. Continue to cook for 1½ to 2 minutes, stirring frequently to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually Add Milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon to ensure the flour is fully incorporated and no lumps form.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat; this should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Lower the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the creamed spinach and add extra salt if needed, typically a pinch is sufficient.
- Cool and Serve: Leave the creamed spinach uncovered to allow it to thicken further as it cools before serving.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out excess water from the thawed spinach to avoid a watery sauce.
- Freshly grated nutmeg enhances the flavor more than pre-ground.
- This dish can be reheated gently on stovetop or microwave; add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
- For a richer taste, substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamed spinach, side dish, spinach recipe, creamy spinach, easy vegetable side
