Description
Looking for the ultimate easy dinner side dish or holiday food idea? This Cheesy Creamed Spinach delivers all the comfort of rich, creamy sauce and bubbling cheese, folded into perfectly wilted spinach. Whether you’re serving it with steak, roast chicken, or crusty bread, this quick dinner or brunch-friendly recipe is a warm and indulgent addition to your table. Great for vegetable lovers, fans of cheesy food ideas, or anyone needing a go-to easy recipe for potlucks and family meals.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons cream cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
16 oz fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped shallots or onion (optional)
1/4 cup grated Gruyère or sharp white cheddar (optional)
Breadcrumbs or panko for topping (optional)
Instructions
1. If using fresh spinach, blanch in boiling water for 30–45 seconds, transfer to ice water, drain, squeeze dry, and chop. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze dry.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic (and optional shallots), and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Stir in flour to make a roux; cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, and let it simmer until slightly thickened. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in cream cheese, Parmesan, and half the mozzarella. Mix until smooth.
6. Fold in spinach until fully coated and well combined.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
8. Top with remaining mozzarella and optional breadcrumbs.
9. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for a browned top.
10. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Be sure to squeeze all moisture out of spinach to avoid a watery sauce.
Grate cheese fresh for better melting—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
To save time, prepare the dish ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of dish
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: cheesy creamed spinach, creamy spinach side, baked spinach recipe, holiday side dish, easy dinner idea