Easy Homemade Creamed Spinach (Rich, Creamy, Ready in 15 Minutes)

Creamed spinach is a classic, delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, especially meats like steak, chicken, or fish.

Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for making creamed spinach at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds fresh spinach (or 2 packages frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spinach:
   • If using fresh spinach, wash thoroughly and remove any tough stems. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and chop.
   • If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain well, squeezing out excess water.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
   • If you prefer a thicker sauce, sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour.
   • Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add Spinach and Cheese:
   • Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring to coat with the cream sauce.
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cream cheese, if using, until melted and well combined.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Season with ground nutmeg (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.
   • Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is heated through and the sauce is thickened to your liking.
   • Serve hot as a side dish.

Tips:

• For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Variations: You can also use Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the creamed spinach slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade creamed spinach!