Creamed Spinach
A classic steakhouse side that's rich, creamy, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender spinach is folded into a savory garlic and Parmesan cream sauce, making it the perfect accompaniment for any main course.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the spinach
- b.In a large pot, wilt the fresh spinach in batches over medium heat. You can add a splash of water to help it steam.
- c.Once wilted, transfer the spinach to a colander to cool down for a few minutes.
- d.Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the spinach using your hands. This step is crucial to avoid a watery dish.
- e.Roughly chop the drained spinach and set it aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the cream sauce
- b.In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped shallot and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- d.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- e.Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- f.Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- g.Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it has thickened.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine and finish
- b.Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- c.Add the chopped spinach to the cream sauce and stir until everything is well combined.
- d.Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is heated through.
- e.Stir in the fresh lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve immediately while hot.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Squeezing all the water from the spinach is the most important step. A potato ricer or cheesecloth works wonders for this!
- 2For a quicker version, use a 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess water.
- 3Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- 4Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil instead of butter, full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and milk, and 3 tablespoons of nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
healthyHealthy
For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream entirely with whole milk and reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the cayenne pepper and shallot for a milder flavor. You can also blend the finished dish for a smoother, less textured sauce that kids might prefer.
high proteinHigh protein
Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon or finely diced grilled chicken along with the spinach for a protein boost.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Spinach is an excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, which are essential for bone health, vision, and immune function.
Source of Iron
This leafy green provides plant-based iron, which is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Provides Calcium
The milk and Parmesan cheese contribute calcium, a mineral vital for strong bones and teeth.
Contains Antioxidants
Garlic and spinach both contain powerful antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
Creamed spinach can be part of a healthy diet, as spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals. However, traditional recipes are high in fat and calories from cream and butter. This version is lightened up, but it's best enjoyed in moderation as a side dish.