Creamed Spinach with Garlic
This fresh creamed spinach is a rich, creamy, and flavorful vegetable side dish featuring baby spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Ready in just 25 minutes, it balances indulgence with nutrition, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Equipment
- 1 Medium Dutch Oven
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Garlic Press
- Measuring cups (set)
- Measuring Spoons (set)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- A small pinch of cayenne pepper optional, for a mild kick
- 16 ounces fresh baby spinach leaves
- 4 garlic cloves minced or pressed
- 4 ounces cream cheese cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics for Flavor: In a medium-sized heavy pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely diced onion along with the salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir frequently and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, allowing its natural sweetness to develop.
- Gradually Wilt the Spinach: Add the baby spinach in large handfuls to the pot, stirring well after each addition to allow the leaves to wilt evenly. Continue this process until all the spinach has been incorporated and softened, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes. The spinach will reduce significantly in volume.
- Infuse Garlic Aroma: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and tender, but not browned. This step ensures the garlic flavor blends gently into the greens.
- Creamy Cheese Integration: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cream cheese cubes to the pot and stir continuously until they melt completely and the mixture becomes silky and smooth. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the spinach and stir to combine, enriching the dish with its nutty, savory notes.
- Final Taste and Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Taste the creamed spinach and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if desired. Serve warm as a deliciously creamy, nutritious side dish.
Notes
- Fresh Spinach: Using fresh baby spinach is key to this recipe’s vibrant flavor and tender texture. Avoid frozen spinach here, as it contains too much water and changes the dish’s consistency.
- Cheese Options: For a slightly different flavor, feel free to substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta. Parmesan adds a salty, umami kick but can be swapped with Pecorino Romano if preferred.
- Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream cheese or use a lower-fat variety.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Serving Suggestions: This creamy spinach pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a comforting side to pasta dishes.
