There’s a certain comfort in the rich, creamy texture of a classic side dish like creamed spinach. As the stir of warm garlic mingles with buttery goodness, your kitchen becomes a haven for all the senses. I first discovered this delightful recipe during a cozy potluck with friends, where I needed something that would impress without keeping me tied to the stove for hours.
This creamed spinach is not just a simple veggie side; it elevates everyday meals with its satisfying, velvety sauce. With just a handful of ingredients you’ll likely have on hand, it comes together in a flash—perfect for those busy nights when you want to steer clear of takeout and serve something homestyle instead. Whether spooned over roasted chicken, nestled beside a hearty grain, or simply enjoyed by itself, this dish has a way of transforming the ordinary into something truly special. Let’s dive in and create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Creamed Spinach
- This creamed spinach recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, taking only 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Its creamy, garlicky flavor is utterly irresistible and will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
- Not only is this dish versatile enough to complement a variety of proteins and grains, but it also serves as a standalone delight that can stand proud on any table.
- Finally, its stunning visual appeal adds a vibrant touch to your meal, making it a definite crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends alike.
Creamed Spinach Ingredients
• Create this delightful dish using simple pantry staples!
For the Spinach
- 16 ounces organic frozen spinach – make sure it’s well-thawed and drained for the best texture.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter – this is essential for a rich, buttery flavor that brings everything together.
- 3–4 garlic cloves – fresh garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic kick; feel free to add more if you love garlic!
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – necessary for thickening your sauce into that velvety dream.
- 1 cup milk – whole milk gives creaminess, but feel free to substitute with a plant-based milk for a lighter twist.
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste – balances flavors, so always add a pinch at a time and taste as you go.
- Pepper, to taste – freshly cracked black pepper elevates the dish’s flavor profile beautifully.
Add this creamed spinach as a luscious side to any meal, and experience a comforting treat that feels like home!
How to Make Creamed Spinach
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Melt the Butter: Place a saucepan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt completely until bubbly, creating a delicious base for your sauce.
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Sauté the Garlic: Toss in 3–4 minced garlic cloves into the melted butter. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, letting the warm aroma fill your kitchen and set the stage for the creamy goodness to come.
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour into the saucepan, stirring continuously. Cook for a minute or two to form a paste (roux) and enhance the flavor without letting it brown.
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Add the Milk: Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to mix everything smoothly without lumps forming. Keep cooking until the mixture simmers and slightly thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
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Stir in the Spinach: Add the 16 ounces of well-thawed and drained spinach to your sauce. Stir until fully combined and heated through, watching the vibrant green color absorb into the creamy sauce.
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Season to Perfection: Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra layer of warmth and flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg; it complements the spinach beautifully.
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Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the warm creamed spinach as a luscious side dish that pairs wonderfully with proteins or grains, or simply relish it by itself!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These creamed spinach can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy base (butter, garlic, flour, and milk) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first four steps of the recipe, cool the mixture, and transfer it to an airtight container to refrigerate. The spinach can also be thawed and drained ahead of time—just remember to squeeze out excess moisture to maintain the dish’s consistency. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the creamy base in a saucepan, stir in the spinach, and season to taste before enjoying this comforting side dish. It’ll be just as delicious and saves you precious time at dinner!
How to Store and Freeze Creamed Spinach
Fridge: Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze creamed spinach in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the creamed spinach in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving creamed spinach out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety. Store promptly after serving to prevent spoilage.
What to Serve with Creamed Spinach?
As you savor the rich creaminess of creamed spinach, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your meal.
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Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused chicken adds depth to the dish, making for a well-rounded, satisfying dinner that’s simply irresistible.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the smooth texture of creamed spinach, perfect for scooping up every last bit of that creamy goodness.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings a refreshing contrast, adding nutty flavors and a satisfying crunch to your plate, balancing the creaminess beautifully.
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Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes nestle perfectly beside the creamed spinach, their comforting texture creating the ultimate side dish harmony.
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Grilled Salmon: The smoky flavor of perfectly grilled salmon pairs beautifully with the rich creaminess, providing a delicious mix of tastes.
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Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for a rustic touch. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce and soaking up every flavor.
With these pairings, your dinner will transform into a memorable feast that everyone will enjoy!
Creamed Spinach Variations
Customize your creamed spinach experience with these delicious twists that will elevate the flavor and enjoy every bite!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk for a creamy yet lighter option that’s just as satisfying.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to infuse a little warmth and excitement into your dish.
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Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese just before serving for an extra level of richness and flavor that’s utterly irresistible.
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Nutty Flavor: Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts sprinkled on top right before serving provide a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the creaminess.
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Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a burst of color and a fresh, vibrant flavor that takes this dish to another level.
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Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon juice or zest added at the end brightens all the flavors, making each bite feel refreshing and lively.
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Mushroom Medley: Sauté some chopped mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy twist that enhances the overall savory profile of your creamed spinach.
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Vegetable Boost: Mix in other veggies like steamed broccoli or sautéed kale for added nutrition and a lovely pop of color.
Let your imagination run wild with these variations and create your perfect version of creamed spinach!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making creamed spinach, ensure your frozen spinach is fully thawed and well-drained to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
- Avoid common mistakes like adding the spinach before the sauce thickens, as this can result in a watery dish.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced or powdered options, as the aroma enhances the overall experience.
- Keep the heat at medium to prevent the sauce from scorching while it simmers, ensuring a smooth and velvety consistency throughout the cooking process.
Creamed Spinach Recipe FAQs
What type of spinach should I use for creamed spinach?
Absolutely! While fresh spinach can be used, I recommend using 16 ounces of organic frozen spinach as it offers convenience and retains the flavor. Be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water, which can make the dish too watery.
How should I store leftover creamed spinach?
After serving, store any leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on low heat, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Can I freeze creamed spinach?
Yes, you can freeze creamed spinach! To do this, place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the spinach in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to regain creaminess.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, while stirring over low heat. This will help achieve that lovely, smooth texture you’re aiming for. If it feels too thin, give it a few minutes more on the stove to thicken up.
Are there any dietary considerations with creamed spinach?
Very! This recipe is quite versatile. For those avoiding dairy, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Additionally, if you’re concerned about allergies, this recipe is nut-free and can be easily modified to exclude gluten by using a gluten-free flour for the roux. Always check your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How long can creamed spinach sit out at room temperature?
Creamed spinach should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Promptly refrigerate any leftovers to prevent spoilage, and reheat as needed.
Creamed Spinach
Ingredients
- 16 ounces organic frozen spinach well-thawed and drained
- 2 tablespoons butter essential for flavor
- 3–4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour for thickening
- 1 cup milk whole or plant-based milk
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Method
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté minced garlic in the melted butter until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour into the saucepan, stirring continuously to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking to avoid lumps, and cook until thickened.
- Add well-thawed and drained spinach to the sauce and stir until combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy by itself.
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