### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– **Simple Yet Luxurious**: With only a handful of ingredients, this creamed spinach feels like something straight out of a fancy restaurant.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion**: It’s a wonderful side dish for holidays, date nights, or even a casual weeknight dinner when you want a little something extra.
– **Kid-Approved**: Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy, cheesy goodness. Trust me—this might be their new favorite way to eat greens.
– **Ready in Under 20 Minutes**: Yes, you read that right! This recipe comes together quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy the meal.
### **Ingredients Breakdown**
– **Spinach**: Fresh baby spinach works best here, but you can substitute frozen spinach if needed—just be sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess water.
– **Butter**: Adds a rich, savory base. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil is a good substitute.
– **Garlic**: Use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, a little garlic powder will work too.
– **Heavy Cream**: The key to that luscious, creamy texture. You could swap it with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version.
– **Parmesan Cheese**: Freshly grated Parmesan is a must for that nutty, savory kick. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt quite as well, so try to grate your own.
– **Nutmeg (Optional)**: A pinch of nutmeg brings out the warmth and depth in the cream sauce. It’s subtle but makes a big difference.
### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Prepare Your Spinach**: If using fresh spinach, rinse and pat it dry. (No one likes a watery creamed spinach!) If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry.
2. **Sauté the Garlic**: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it!
3. **Wilt the Spinach**: Add the spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring until just wilted. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. If using frozen spinach, simply stir it in to warm through.
4. **Make the Cream Sauce**: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
5. **Season & Finish**: Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
6. **Serve Warm**: Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan, and serve immediately. It’s best enjoyed hot and fresh!
### **Chef’s Tips and Tricks**
– **Don’t Skip the Squeeze**: If using frozen spinach, make sure to press out as much moisture as possible. This prevents the dish from getting watery.
– **Go Low and Slow**: When adding the cream, keep the heat on low to medium to avoid curdling.
– **Extra Cheesy? Yes, Please!**: You can add more Parmesan for a thicker, cheesier sauce. There’s no such thing as too much cheese, right?
### **Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions**
– **Variations**: Add cooked mushrooms or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor, or use kale instead of spinach for a heartier dish.
– **Serving Suggestions**: Creamed spinach pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a slice of holiday ham. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside some garlic bread or over pasta.
### **FAQs**
**Can I make this ahead of time?**
Absolutely! You can prep the creamed spinach a few hours before serving. Just reheat it gently on the stove, stirring in a splash of cream if needed to refresh the texture.
**Can I freeze leftovers?**
Creamed spinach can be frozen for up to two months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. However, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
**Can I use milk instead of cream?**
For a lighter option, you can use milk, but the sauce will be a bit thinner. Adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch can help thicken it.
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### **Creamed Spinach with Parmesan**
#### Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes
#### **Ingredients**
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh baby spinach (or 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
#### **Instructions**
1. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the spinach in batches, stirring until wilted. If using frozen spinach, simply stir to warm through.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if desired. Let cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
I’d love to hear how this turned out for you! Leave a comment below or share your creation on social media with #TheKitchensAid. Happy cooking!
