Creamed Spinach

Creamed Spinach

Ingredients

  • 1/2 c. plus 3 tbsp. butter

    divided

  • 8 tbsp. flour
  • 1/2 medium onion

    finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic

    finely chopped

  • 2 c. milk
  • 24 oz. baby spinach
  • Salt and pepper
    to taste
  • Pinch ground nutmeg

Directions

  1. 1

    In a pot, melt 1/2 cup butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk together. Cook over medium heat until light golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add the onion and garlic and stir together, cooking for another minute. Pour in the milk, whisking constantly, and cook for another 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, in a separate pot, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter. Add the spinach in increments until all is incorporated, and cook until wilted but not soggy, 4 to 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Season the cream sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the spinach to the cream sauce, stirring gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Creamed Spinach

Creamed Spinach

4.9(13)

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Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Exceptional

Based on 13 ratings

thepioneerwoman.com
4.9(13 reviews)
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Rating Breakdown

About this Recipe

Craving that rich, comforting side dish that elevates any meal, but think it’s too complicated to make at home? This Creamed Spinach recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor and texture, proving that the best comforts are often the simplest to achieve.

Why This Creamy Side Shines

The secret to this Creamed Spinach lies in building layers of flavor and richness. Starting with a classic roux of butter and flour creates a velvety-smooth base, ensuring your dish is wonderfully creamy, never watery. Finely chopped onion and garlic are sautéed to aromatic perfection, infusing every bite with savory depth, while a gentle pinch of nutmeg adds that quintessential warmth and complexity that truly makes this dish sing.

What to Expect

Prepare for a spoonful of pure comfort. You'll find tender baby spinach, perfectly wilted and enveloped in a luxuriously thick, smooth, and utterly delicious cream sauce. The flavor profile is deeply savory with a subtle sweetness from the cooked onion and a whisper of garlic. The nutmeg is a background note, enhancing the spinach's natural earthiness without overpowering it. This is a side dish that feels indulgent yet remarkably balanced, perfect for pairing with a variety of main courses.

Customization & Variations

While this recipe shines in its classic form, you can easily adapt it to your preferences. Feel free to increase the amount of garlic or onion for a more pronounced aromatic punch. For an extra layer of indulgence, many home cooks enjoy stirring in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the end, though it’s not essential for this recipe's success. If you prefer a bolder spice profile, a touch more ground nutmeg can deepen its unique warmth.

Serving & Context

Creamed Spinach is the quintessential companion to a perfectly seared steak, roasted chicken, or holiday roasts. It also makes a fantastic addition to a brunch spread or a comforting weeknight dinner, adding a touch of elegance to any plate.

Frequently Asked Questions