Classic Creamed Spinach Recipe

Classic Creamed Spinach Recipe

4 servings
Classic creamed spinach is a steakhouse favorite but you don't need to wait for the restaurant to enjoy it. Whip up this easy recipe for a versatile side dish.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces baby spinach
  • 1 shallot
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 lemon

    zest

  • juice from ½ lemon + more to serve
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cream
  • ¼ cup cream cheese

    softened

  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

  1. 1

    Remove the large stems from the spinach and chop the leaves into ½-inch slivers.

  2. 2

    Dice the shallot and garlic.

  3. 3

    Add the butter to a large frying pan and raise the heat to medium-high.

  4. 4

    Drop in the diced shallot and garlic and cook for 4 to 5 minutes stirring frequently.

  5. 5

    Add the spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

  6. 6

    Cover and cook on low for about 5 minutes until the spinach wilts.

  7. 7

    In a small bowl, combine the flour and cream with a whisk.

  8. 8

    Add this mixture to the pan along with the cream cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

  9. 9

    Place the lid on the pan and simmer for 10 minutes.

  10. 10

    Garnish with fresh lemon juice.

Classic Creamed Spinach Recipe

Classic Creamed Spinach Recipe

29 min4 servings

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About this Recipe

Craving that indulgent steakhouse side dish without leaving your kitchen? This Classic Creamed Spinach recipe brings all the rich, savory flavor you love right to your table, making it an easy and versatile accompaniment for any meal.

This recipe shines by combining tender baby spinach with a luxurious, velvety sauce. The thoughtful inclusion of aromatic shallots and garlic lays a deep flavor foundation, while a touch of lemon zest and juice provides a bright counterpoint, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy. A hint of nutmeg adds a warm, classic spice note that perfectly complements the creamy base, setting this version apart.

Prepare for a truly comforting experience. You'll enjoy tender, vibrant spinach enrobed in a thick, opulent cream sauce that’s both savory and subtly sweet. The texture is smooth and luscious, with the delicate bite of spinach still present. This dish is rich yet balanced, a perfect side to elevate a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

Feel free to customize this creamed spinach to your liking. For an extra cheesy touch, consider stirring in a bit of grated Parmesan along with the cream cheese. If you prefer a lighter sauce, you could swap some of the heavy cream for half-and-half, though it will result in a slightly thinner consistency. Don't have shallots? A small amount of finely minced onion can work as a substitute, offering a similar aromatic base.

Serve this Classic Creamed Spinach alongside a perfectly seared steak, roasted chicken, or as a decadent vegetable side for any holiday spread. Its rich flavor and appealing texture make it a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of elegance to any plate.

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