This Steakhouse Creamed Spinach is a rich and creamy side dish that makes your taste buds dance! Fresh spinach is mixed with a smooth cheese sauce, creating a delicious treat.
You can’t go wrong with this combo at dinner! I could eat this by the spoonful, and it pairs perfectly with a juicy steak—my taste buds can’t keep a secret! 😄
What I love most is how easy it is to whip up. Just a few simple ingredients, and in no time, you have a comforting dish that feels fancy yet homey!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Spinach: While fresh spinach offers great flavor, frozen spinach is a convenient substitute. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid watery creamed spinach. Personally, I love using fresh spinach for its texture!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the salt content. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil or a non-dairy butter can work well instead.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. You can swap it for shallots or leeks for a milder flavor. I sometimes use green onions for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or a mixture of cream and milk can do the trick. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or cashew cream.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat alternative. If you need it dairy-free, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth. Pecorino Romano can be a nice substitute for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Ensure My Creamed Spinach Is Perfectly Creamy?
The key to creamy creamed spinach lies in how you prepare the cream and to incorporate the spinach properly. Focus on the steps where you blend in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Here’s how to do it right:
- After sautéing the onions and garlic, bring the cream to a gentle simmer before adding the cream cheese.
- Stir constantly while adding the cream cheese so it melts evenly without clumping.
- Add the spinach gradually, making sure it mixes well with the cream mixture.
Adjust the heat to keep it warm but not boiling to maintain that creamy texture. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Creamed Spinach:
- 1 lb fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious steakhouse creamed spinach takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Whether you use fresh or frozen spinach, it’s a quick and easy side dish to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
If using fresh spinach, start by washing it and removing the thick stems. Blanch it in a pot of boiling water for just 1-2 minutes. This helps soften the spinach. After that, drain it and chop it up. If you’re using frozen spinach, just thaw it out and make sure to drain any excess water so it’s not too watery.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that lovely garlic aroma!
3. Make the Creamy Mixture:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This allows it to thicken up a little, making it extra creamy. Then mix in the softened cream cheese until it’s melted and everything looks combined and creamy.
4. Combine Spinach and Cheese:
It’s time to add your chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet! Stir everything well together, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you’d like. Mix until everything is together and delicious.
5. Heat Through and Serve:
Cook this mixture for another 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through. Give it a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, serve your warm creamed spinach right away as a perfect side dish with steak or any of your favorite main courses. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the recipe. This will help prevent the dish from becoming too watery!
How to Store Leftover Creamed Spinach?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also add a splash of cream to loosen it up if it becomes too thick!
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich and creamy. You might want to adjust the cooking time to let it thicken properly.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Steakhouse Creamed Spinach?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steak, but it can also complement chicken or pork. Additionally, serving it with a side of crusty bread or over baked potatoes can add a delightful touch!
