Creamed Spinach is your new favorite side dish. It brings together all the other elements of your meal, especially between your mashed potatoes and perfectly seared steak. This dish also ties together your Thanksgiving plate beautifully. Quickly prepared, it can be made ahead, making it a practical choice for any dinner party or family gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Creamed Spinach

This creamed spinach dish is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and comforting. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes.
Perfectly complements main dishes like steak or chicken.
Can be made ahead of time, ideal for busy holidays.
Rich and creamy, satisfying your comfort food cravings.
Healthy alternatives are available, including vegan options.
Works great as a classic side dish for Thanksgiving or special occasions.

With its creamy sauce and bright flavors, this dish is bound to impress your guests. It fits perfectly within the vegetarian diet category, making it accessible for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Creamed Spinach

Gather these items:

5 tablespoons butter
2 shallots (chopped)
2 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
5 cloves garlic (smashed and minced)
1/4 cup flour
1 and 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
16 ounces fresh baby spinach (chopped)
1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese (shredded)
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

How to Make Creamed Spinach Step-by-Step

Step 1: Start by prepping all your veggies! Chop 2 shallots into a dice. Smash 5 garlic cloves and mince them. Chop 16 ounces of spinach into smaller pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: In a 12-inch high-sided skillet, add 5 tablespoons butter. Melt over medium heat.
Step 3: Add the 2 chopped shallots and stir.
Step 4: Add all the spices: 2 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, 3/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg.
Step 5: Let the shallots and spices cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the shallots are soft.
Step 6: Add 5 cloves of minced garlic and stir. Continue cooking over medium heat for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 7: Sprinkle 1/4 cup flour over the mixture. Stir for 1 more minute, until all the butter has absorbed into the flour.
Step 8: With the heat still set to medium, SLOWLY add 1 and 1/2 cups of milk, stirring until absorbed before adding more.
Step 9: Add 1/2 cup heavy cream slowly to the sauce. Stir until it has all come together.
Step 10: Start adding 16 ounces chopped spinach to the pan with the white sauce in increments, stirring until wilted.
Step 11: Once all spinach has been added, simmer for about 10 minutes without boiling.
Step 12: Add 1/2 cup freshly shredded cheese and stir until melted.
Step 13: Zest and juice 1 lemon, then add to the pan.
Step 14: Adjust seasonings to taste.
Step 15: Store covered in the fridge. Reheat on low.
Step 16: You can make creamed spinach up to 2 days ahead.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamed Spinach

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for Thanksgiving. Learn more about Thanksgiving sides.
Adjust seasonings according to your preference.
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a dash of cream cheese, which creates a delightful spinach and cream cheese dish.

Best Ways to Serve Creamed Spinach

This creamy delight is perfect as a side dish with:

Roasted chicken or turkey.
Steak or pork chops.
As part of a festive Thanksgiving spread, making it a creamed spinach side dish that everyone will love.

How to Store and Reheat Creamed Spinach

Store any leftovers covered in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the creamy texture. This dish can be made ahead, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamed Spinach

What’s the secret to perfect Creamed Spinach?

The key to perfect creamed spinach is to ensure you gradually add the milk, allowing the mixture to thicken properly without curdling. This creates a smooth and luscious sauce that perfectly coats the spinach.

Can I make Creamed Spinach ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare creamed spinach up to two days in advance. Simply store it covered in the fridge, and reheat it gently when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy days or holiday meals.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamed Spinach?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you’re cooking the spinach just until wilted and not overly soggy. Also, be sure to stir constantly while adding milk to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Variations of Creamed Spinach You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Spinach au Gratin: Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crunchy finish.
Creamy Garlic Spinach: Add roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
Vegan Creamed Spinach Recipe: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and cheese with nutritional yeast.
Low-Carb Creamed Spinach: Use almond milk and reduce the flour for a lighter version.