Creamed spinach is one of those timeless side dishes that never goes out of style. Rich, comforting, and undeniably flavorful, it’s the kind of dish that can elevate any meal, whether you’re serving a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or even a simple baked potato. It’s especially popular during the holidays but is just as welcome at a cozy weeknight dinner.
What makes creamed spinach so special is its balance of richness and freshness. The spinach itself is earthy and tender, offering a bright green contrast to the luxurious cream sauce it’s folded into. The sauce is typically a combination of butter, garlic, onions, and cream or milk, gently thickened to coat the spinach in silky goodness. A touch of nutmeg or black pepper adds depth, while a sprinkle of Parmesan or Gruyère cheese can take it to the next level.
One of the best things about creamed spinach is its versatility. You can make it as simple or as indulgent as you like. Use fresh spinach for a vibrant, slightly firmer texture, or go with frozen spinach for convenience and a softer finish. Add a bit of cream cheese for extra body or stir in cooked mushrooms for a more savory twist. Some even like to add a touch of lemon zest to cut through the richness and brighten up the dish.
Creamed spinach isn’t just for steakhouse dinners either. It makes a great filling for puff pastry, a creamy layer in a vegetable lasagna, or even a delicious topping for baked eggs. You can also serve it with crusty bread and call it dinner.
Comforting and easy to make, creamed spinach proves that vegetables don’t have to be boring. It’s the kind of side dish that wins over even the pickiest eaters and turns an ordinary meal into something memorable. Whether you’re making a holiday feast or a quiet dinner for two, this classic favorite always finds a way to shine.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh spinach washed and trimmed
- 3 tbsp butter unsalted
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg freshly grated
- To taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the spinach in batches, cooking until wilted after each addition.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the cream thickens.
- Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well and remove from heat. Serve warm.
Nutrition
This creamed spinach was a hit at dinner! Super creamy and full of flavor. My family loved it! Definitely making this again.
Yummm! Best creamed spinach ever! I added some bacon bits for extra flavor and it turned out amazing!
I tried this and it was way too rich for me. I thought it would be lighter. 1 star for effort.
Spinach is good for ur health and this is a nice recipe but I think it was too creamy for my taste. Not sure I’ll make again.
It was okay, but I feel like it needed a bit more seasoning. Maybe I’ll add some onion next time.
I totally agree! A little more seasoning can make a big difference. Onion sounds like a great idea!
Meh, I think it was fine how it is. Too much seasoning can ruin the taste!
Simple and quick to make, loved it! Perfect side dish. 🥬
Doing this with frozen spinach next time. Too lazy for fresh! 😂
Pretty good but I used frozen spinach because I couldn’t find fresh. It was alright I guess.
Frozen spinach works pretty well too! Just make sure to squeeze out the water after thawing. Glad you liked it!
Yummy! Used coconut cream since I’m lactose intolerant and it worked great!
Tastes great! The nutmeg really makes it feel special. I would make it again!
I don’t get why people love spinach. This recipe was just OK. Meh.
This was amazing! So creamy and delicious. Will definitely make again! 👍
The garlic and nutmeg combo is interesting! I’ll try that next time, gracias!
Spinach is very nutritious! Good recipe, but I added some onion for flavor.
Onion sounds like a great addition! I usually just follow the recipe, but I might try adding onion next time. Thanks for the tip!
Not enough cheese! Needs more parmesan for sure.
I totally agree! More cheese makes everything better! Who wants bland creamed spinach? 😊
This recipe is bogus. Spinach is gross and this doesn’t change that.
I’m not a huge fan of spinach, so I substituted it with kale. Wasn’t bad, but not the same look. I’ll stick with the original next time.
Kale is a cool substitute but it definitely changes the taste and texture! Spinach gives it that creamy vibe. I get what’s you did, though!
Not sure kale works the same way. Spinach is more soft and creamy, I think? Maybe try again but with the original?
I like it, but my kids wouldn’t eat it. They said it looked weird.
This is the best creamed spinach I’ve ever made! So rich and creamy. Will definitely make again!
Delish! Made it for Thanksgiving and everyone gobbled it up. A hit for sure!
It was ok, but my partner said it tasted a bit bland. I think I’ll try adding more garlic next time.
I tried it but I think I overcooked the spinach… it was kinda mushy 🙁
Kinda mushy? Maybe just mix it up with some crunchy toasters! LOL. Can’t go wrong with cheese though!
Oh no! Overcooked spinach is the worst. Maybe next time try just adding it in the last few minutes? Gives it a better texture!
This was too mushy for my taste. Maybe I overcooked the spinach? It was like eating green goop.
Serious question: can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? I hope it doesn’t ruin the recipe.
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just thaw it out and squeeze out the excess water before adding it. It’ll be delicious either way!
I like spinach and this recipe looked easy but I found it too rich, like there was too much cream or something.
This was SO good! I never knew creamed spinach could be this easy to make. The parmesan added such a nice touch.
I agree! I did not expect it to be this easy either! So creamy and delicious! 😍
Spinich sux but my kids loved this! Gonna pretend it’s something else next time. Haha!
Um, nutmeg in spinach? Sounds weird but it actually works! Surprised me.
Delicious! I added some cream cheese for extra flavor. Yum!
Spinach is nasty, why would anyone want to eat this? Pass.
I followed the recipe but mine turned out too watery. Anyone know what I did wrong?
Maybe you added too much cream or didn’t let it cook long enough? That can happen. I always make sure to cook it until it thickens up.
I think you may have put in too much spinach! It can hold a lot of water. Try using less next time. 😅