Creamed Spinach Recipe

Creamed spinach is the ultimate comfort side dish—silky, indulgent, and bursting with flavor.

This classic recipe elevates simple spinach into a creamy, dreamy dish that pairs perfectly with steak, roasted chicken, or even as a standalone vegetarian delight.

Rich, smooth, and velvety, it’s a timeless favorite in restaurants and home kitchens alike.

If you’ve been intimidated by making creamy sauces or cooking greens, this recipe will change your mind—it’s straightforward, satisfying, and utterly delicious.

This creamed spinach is made with fresh baby spinach sautéed until just tender, then enveloped in a luscious, buttery cream sauce with hints of garlic, nutmeg, and parmesan. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of earthiness from the spinach and richness from the creamy sauce. The texture is smooth yet slightly hearty, making it a crowd-pleaser at dinner tables.

Ingredients

Fresh baby spinach – 1 lb (450 g): Washed and trimmed for a tender, bright base.
Unsalted butter – 3 tbsp: For richness and flavor.
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth.
All-purpose flour – 2 tbsp: Helps thicken the creamy sauce.
Whole milk – 1 cup (240 ml): Creates a smooth, velvety base.
Heavy cream – ½ cup (120 ml): For extra indulgence and silkiness.
Grated Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup (25 g): Adds a nutty, savory punch.
Salt – to taste: Enhances the natural flavors.
Black pepper – freshly ground, to taste: Balances richness.
Nutmeg – a pinch: Optional but adds a warm, subtle note.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the spinach leaves. Blanch for 30–60 seconds until just wilted and vibrant green.

Drain immediately and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking.

Squeeze out excess water and roughly chop the spinach. This step ensures a bright color and prevents watery creamed spinach.

2. Make the Cream Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Sprinkle the flour over the butter-garlic mixture and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux.

Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the sauce to thicken, about 3–5 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon.

3. Combine Spinach and Sauce

Add the chopped spinach to the creamy sauce and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Stir in Parmesan cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The result should be silky, rich, and perfectly balanced.

4. Serve

Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish. For extra flair, drizzle a little melted butter on top or sprinkle extra Parmesan. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dish.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4)

Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 3 g

Tips for the Perfect Creamed Spinach

Use fresh baby spinach: It gives a tender texture and vibrant color. Avoid frozen spinach if you want that restaurant-quality finish.
Don’t skip the roux: Flour and butter form the base that thickens the sauce. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
Balance seasoning: Creamed spinach can taste bland without salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg—don’t be shy!
Cheese options: Parmesan is classic, but Gruyère or Pecorino Romano works wonderfully too.

Variations to Try

Garlic Creamed Spinach: Increase garlic for a punchy flavor.
Vegan Creamed Spinach: Substitute butter with olive oil, cream with coconut or oat milk, and cheese with nutritional yeast.
Spicy Creamed Spinach: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a subtle kick.

Final Thoughts

Creamed spinach is more than just a side dish—it’s a little indulgence that elevates any meal. Smooth, rich, and full of flavor, it’s easier to make than you think and versatile enough for endless variations.

With this recipe, you can enjoy the classic, restaurant-style creamed spinach right in your own kitchen.

Perfectly creamy, perfectly comforting—once you try it, it will become a staple in your weeknight or holiday dinner rotation.

Creamed Spinach Recipe