Cheesy Creamed Spinach

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Love a side dish that steals the show? Cheesy Creamed Spinach is that rare blend of rich, comforting, and surprisingly easy. Whether you’re serving a holiday spread or need something indulgent for weeknight dinner, this golden-topped creamy spinach delivers a luscious, savory punch that makes even non-veggie lovers grab seconds.

The bubbling cheese layer gives way to velvety, garlicky spinach beneath, blending dairy decadence with earthy greens. It pairs effortlessly with everything from roast chicken to grilled steak, and doubles beautifully as a dip with crusty bread or pita chips.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring Cheesy Creamed Spinach to life, you don’t need fancy gadgets—just a few trusty essentials:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Essential for wilting the spinach and combining it with the cream mixture. A wide surface helps moisture evaporate quickly.
• Whisk: A sturdy whisk is key when making the béchamel-like base, ensuring a smooth sauce with no lumps.
• Oven-Safe Baking Dish: This allows you to finish the dish under the broiler or bake it for that golden cheese crust.
• Garlic Press or Microplane: If you love uniform garlic flavor, a press or fine grater makes it seamless.
• Cheese Grater: For freshly grated cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan. Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded.

These tools don’t just make the prep easier—they help build layers of texture and flavor that define this classic comfort dish.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Creamed Spinach

Each ingredient in this Cheesy Creamed Spinach earns its place. Here’s how they contribute to flavor and texture:

• Fresh Spinach: The heart of the recipe. Wilts beautifully and adds a soft, earthy base.
• Butter: Gives the sauce richness and depth, starting the base for the roux.
• Garlic: Brings savory warmth that enhances the spinach without overpowering it.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the cream base into a velvety sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Adds lush texture and coats the spinach in richness.
• Whole Milk: Balances out the heavy cream and prevents the sauce from being too thick.
• Nutmeg: A small dash elevates the cream sauce with a subtle warmth.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential to season every layer and make flavors pop.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a gooey blanket on top, pulling everything together.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharpness and a salty finish to the cheese topping.

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How To Make the Cheesy Creamed Spinach

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Wilt the Spinach

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant. Add the spinach in batches, letting it wilt before adding more. Once all spinach is wilted, transfer it to a colander to drain.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt another pat of butter and whisk in flour to form a smooth roux. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Return the drained spinach to the skillet. Stir to coat it evenly in the cream sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Transfer the creamed spinach into an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 375°F until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top—about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Broil for Extra Golden Goodness (Optional)

For a deeper crust, place the dish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until browned to your liking.

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How to Serve and Store Cheesy Creamed Spinach

Cheesy Creamed Spinach is as versatile in serving as it is in flavor. Spoon it beside roasted meats like turkey or steak, or serve it as a main vegetarian course with crusty bread or baked potatoes. You can also transform it into a warm dip for parties—just serve with tortilla chips or garlic crostini.

For storing, let it cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, add a little extra cream or milk to revive the creamy texture.

To freeze, portion it into airtight containers and store up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of spinach should I use?

Fresh baby spinach works best for this recipe. It wilts quickly and has a tender texture, but frozen spinach can also be used—just be sure to drain it thoroughly.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. Gruyère, white cheddar, or fontina are all great options. Just make sure the cheese melts well.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, with a few tweaks. Replace the flour with almond flour or a keto thickener, and double-check your cheese and cream labels for hidden carbs.

How do I avoid watery spinach?

Be sure to drain the wilted spinach very well. You can even press it between paper towels or use a clean kitchen cloth to squeeze out excess moisture.

Can I make it ahead?

Definitely! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake just before serving.

What can I serve this with?

It’s excellent with grilled or roasted meats, baked chicken, or even as a side to pasta or stuffed mushrooms.

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Want More Comforting Side Dish Ideas?

If this Cheesy Creamed Spinach warmed your soul, you might enjoy some of these creamy and cozy dishes too.

Try the ultra-comforting Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup if you’re in the mood for a warm bowl of goodness. Or serve up a hearty bowl of Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup that also leans into the earthy greens theme.

Looking for a filling casserole-style dish? The Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole brings that same bubbling cheese energy to the table.

For a dish that’s equally indulgent but with a twist, try the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta or even the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe for some bold comfort flavors.

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If you give it a try, let me know how it went! Did you change the cheese blend? Add some heat with chili flakes? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear how it turned out.

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