Easy Creamed Spinach

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If you’re looking for a quick and comforting side dish, Easy Creamed Spinach is the answer. It transforms humble spinach into a rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying dish. Whether you’re pairing it with a steak dinner or serving it at your holiday table, it delivers flavor in every spoonful.

What makes this dish shine is its simplicity. Using just a handful of everyday ingredients, you get a luscious texture and flavor that feels far more indulgent than the effort it requires. Perfect for busy nights when you want something green on the table without fussing for hours.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamed Spinach

This creamed spinach recipe comes together in minutes and uses ingredients you likely already have. It’s an easy way to turn spinach into something special, and it tastes even better the next day. Creamy, cheesy, and garlicky—what’s not to love?

Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the excess water to avoid watering down the sauce. It’s a great shortcut and lets you keep spinach on hand year-round.

Ingredients for the Easy Creamed Spinach

To make this dish as rich and flavorful as it should be, you want ingredients that bring depth and creaminess.

  • Butter: Essential for creating a silky base and adds that luscious mouthfeel.
  • Garlic: Brings warmth and flavor that complements the richness.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the sauce into that creamy consistency we crave.
  • Milk: Gives the sauce body and helps blend the flavors together.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty depth and helps thicken the mixture.
  • Cream Cheese: Brings a velvety texture and a tangy undertone.
  • Nutmeg: A small pinch lifts the flavor and adds a cozy warmth.
  • Spinach: The star—whether fresh or frozen, it adds color, nutrients, and a slightly earthy bite.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring balance to the dish.
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How To Make the Easy Creamed Spinach

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for another minute. This helps cook out the raw taste of the flour and starts thickening your sauce.

Step 3: Add Dairy and Flavor

Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens, stir in the cream cheese, parmesan, and a pinch of nutmeg. Let everything melt into a creamy base.

Step 4: Add the Spinach

Fold in your spinach (if fresh, cook until wilted; if frozen, make sure it’s been drained well). Stir to combine and coat it evenly in the sauce.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer on low for a few more minutes, then serve hot.

How to Serve and Store This Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is best served warm, straight from the pan. It complements roasted meats, baked chicken, or even a rich mushroom dish beautifully. This recipe feeds about 4 as a side dish, but you can easily double it for a crowd.

To store, let it cool completely and keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Easy Creamed Spinach?

Grilled Ribeye Steak

The richness of creamed spinach is the perfect partner for a juicy, charred steak.

Baked Salmon

Its creamy texture plays well against the flakiness of perfectly baked salmon.

Herb Roasted Chicken

Simple roasted chicken becomes an elegant meal next to this creamy green side.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Double up on the comfort with this ultimate cozy pairing.

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

A vegetarian main that complements and contrasts beautifully.

Creamy Polenta

Smooth and hearty, it’s a comforting base for the creamed spinach.

Buttery Dinner Rolls

For mopping up every last drop of the creamy goodness.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If creamed spinach is your jam, you might love exploring these other cozy and flavorful sides:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so it’s ready when you are. It’s one of those keepers you’ll come back to again and again.

And let me know if you added your own twist—maybe a touch of spice or a handful of cheese? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

This Easy Creamed Spinach is the definition of comfort in a bowl. With just a few ingredients and 15 minutes, you have a delicious side that pairs with almost anything. From everyday dinners to holiday spreads, it’s always a welcomed guest on the table.

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Easy Creamed Spinach

Easy Creamed Spinach


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  • Author: Zoe Adelson
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Easy Creamed Spinach recipe is a quick, creamy side dish made with fresh or frozen spinach, garlic, parmesan, and cream cheese. It’s perfect for steak, salmon, or holiday meals. A comforting and versatile dish that’s ready in minutes.


Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup milk

1/4 cup cream cheese

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

10 ounces fresh or frozen spinach

Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.

3. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and slightly thickened.

4. Stir in the cream cheese, parmesan, and nutmeg until melted and combined.

5. Fold in the spinach. If using fresh, cook until wilted. If using frozen, ensure it is thawed and drained.

6. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes on low.

7. Serve warm as a side dish.

Notes

Use frozen spinach to save time, just squeeze out excess water.

Adjust the thickness by adding a splash more milk if needed.

A pinch of cayenne can add a gentle kick if you like heat.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 270mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
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