I first tried creamed spinach on a whim, and it became a favorite almost immediately.

The creamy texture, the savory flavors, and the spinach all coming together so perfectly—it’s just one of those dishes that feels special.

It’s simple to make, and it adds a rich touch to any meal, from a casual dinner to a festive spread.

If you’re ready for an easy, tasty side dish that hits all the right notes, this creamed spinach recipe is for you.

Creamed Spinach Recipe

Ingredients

• 20 oz frozen chopped spinach (thawed)
• 3 tablespoons ghee (or olive oil for a lighter option)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups full-fat milk (or a dairy-free alternative like oat milk)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 ounces cream cheese (or plant-based cream cheese if preferred)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Use paper towels to gently squeeze out any excess water from the spinach.
2. In a large pan, melt the ghee over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 4 minutes, until they become soft and translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for about 1 minute, cooking off the raw flour taste.
6. Gradually add the full-fat milk (or oat milk) while stirring to create a smooth sauce.
7. Add the Italian seasoning, onion powder, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
8. Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
9. Stir in the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to heat through.
10. Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until everything is melted and creamy.
11. Give the mixture a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
12. Enjoy your creamy spinach as a perfect side dish!

How To Make Creamed Spinach Less Bitter?

Spinach can sometimes taste a bit bitter, but there are a few simple tricks to help reduce that bitterness. Here’s how you can do it:

• Blanch the spinach: Before cooking, briefly boil the spinach for 1-2 minutes, then quickly transfer it to ice water. This helps reduce bitterness and keeps the spinach bright green.
• Use a pinch of sugar: Adding a small amount of sugar can help balance the bitterness and bring out the natural sweetness of the spinach.
• Add more cream or cheese: Creamy ingredients like cream cheese, heavy cream, or Parmesan can mask the bitterness and make the dish smoother and more flavorful.
• Season with a little lemon juice: A touch of lemon juice can brighten the flavor of creamed spinach and reduce its bitterness.
• Add a pinch of salt: Salt can help cut through the bitterness and enhance the other flavors in the dish.

What To Serve With Creamed Spinach?

If you’re wondering what to serve with your creamed spinach, here are some delicious options:

• Grilled chicken
• Roasted turkey
• Baked salmon
• Mashed potatoes
• Garlic bread
• Rice pilaf
• Roasted carrots
• Cheesy potatoes
• Sautéed garlic asparagus

How To Store Creamed Spinach?

To keep your creamed spinach fresh for later, here’s what you need to know:

• Refrigerating: Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation from making it watery.
• Freezing: You can freeze creamed spinach for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. Be sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion.
• Reheating: When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally, and add a little milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture if needed. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.