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Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe

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4.3 from 1 review

This Easy Creamed Spinach recipe is a luscious, comforting side dish featuring tender baby spinach cooked briefly, then combined with a rich, creamy sauce made from butter, cream cheese, milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan. It comes together quickly in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 20 oz. baby spinach
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy

  • 2 tbsp. butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz. cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Seasonings

  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Blanch Spinach: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baby spinach and cook for 30 seconds only to wilt it slightly. Quickly drain and transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve vibrant green color. Once cool, drain again and squeeze out as much excess water as possible to prevent watery creamed spinach.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Create Cream Sauce: Pour in the milk, heavy cream, and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir consistently and let it simmer gently until the cream cheese has completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Season the sauce with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for subtle heat.
  4. Combine Spinach and Finish: Add the drained spinach and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the creamy mixture. Stir well to combine and evenly coat the spinach in the rich sauce. Heat through for a minute or two before serving warm.

Notes

  • Be sure to squeeze out excess water from the spinach to avoid a watery dish.
  • If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a teaspoon of flour during the butter and onion step to create a roux before adding liquids.
  • For a lower-fat version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use reduced-fat cream cheese.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted chicken.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and gently reheated on the stovetop.

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/easy-creamed-spinach-recipe/