Creamiest creamed spinach Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort side dish, look no further than the Creamiest creamed spinach you’ll ever make at home. This dish takes humble spinach and transforms it into a velvety, rich delight that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for pairing with everything from steak to roasted chicken. It’s got that luscious, silky texture that makes every bite feel indulgent without being overly complicated, and the blend of sour cream and milk ensures a delicate creaminess that makes this a standout. I promise, once you try this recipe, Creamiest creamed spinach will become your go-to for elevating any meal with a touch of green goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect creamy texture without overpowering the spinach starts with simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role in balancing flavor, richness, and that dreamy consistency you’re aiming for.

• Sunflower oil: A neutral oil that helps create a smooth roux without adding any competing flavors.
• All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce and giving the creamed spinach its luscious body.
• Sour cream: Adds tang and richness, giving the dish its signature creamy texture and slight sharpness.
• Milk: Lightens the sauce just enough to keep it silky and pourable.
• Frozen spinach (thawed and drained): A convenient way to get tender greens that soak up all the creamy goodness.
• Large egg (whisked): Acts like a gentle binder that thickens the sauce while keeping it smooth.
• Garlic powder: Infuses the spinach with a warm, savory undertone without overpowering the freshness.
• Fine sea salt: Brings out all the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the spinach.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth that rounds out the dish.

How to Make Creamiest creamed spinach

Step 1: Make the roux

Start by heating the sunflower oil over medium heat in a skillet—this is where all the magic begins. Once hot, whisk in the flour quickly to create a roux, which thickens your sauce. Whisking fast is key here to avoid burning the flour, and you’ll notice it will start to bubble slightly but not brown. This forms the velvety base that will hold all those luscious creamy flavors together perfectly.

Step 2: Add sour cream and milk

Next comes the luscious duo of sour cream and milk. Gently whisk these into the roux, stirring constantly until a smooth, silky sauce forms. The sour cream gives that tangy richness, while the milk ensures the sauce remains light enough to coat every spinach leaf beautifully, without becoming clumpy or heavy.

Step 3: Incorporate spinach and seasoning

Now it’s time to add the star—the thawed and drained spinach—along with the whisked egg, garlic powder, salt, and fresh ground pepper. Continue whisking so everything blends flawlessly. Cooking it at a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the egg to gently thicken the sauce even more, making this truly the Creamiest creamed spinach you can imagine.

Step 4: Taste and adjust

Before serving, give your creamed spinach a quick taste test. This is your chance to tweak the garlic, salt, or pepper to suit your preference, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Remember, seasoning is the secret to bringing all these simple ingredients to life in the most delicious way.

How to Serve Creamiest creamed spinach

Garnishes

To take your Creamiest creamed spinach to the next level, try sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan or a pinch of nutmeg on top. A few toasted pine nuts add delightful crunch, or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add a subtle fruity note. These small touches make each serving feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Creamiest creamed spinach pairs wonderfully with many dishes. It’s a classic match alongside juicy grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or roasted pork tenderloin. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty mushroom risotto or stuffed portobello mushrooms for a satisfying combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your creamed spinach into individual ramekins for elegant side servings, or spread it warm over toasted baguette slices for an irresistible appetizer. You can even swirl it into mashed potatoes for a lush twist on traditional comfort food. The possibilities are endless when your spinach creaminess is this good!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Creamiest creamed spinach, it stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing to preserve its texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this creamed spinach to enjoy later, but remember that the texture will slightly change due to the dairy content. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep it as creamy as possible.

Reheating

Reheat your Creamiest creamed spinach gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or separation. Adding a splash of milk can help restore any lost creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can cause splitting of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you use fresh spinach, be sure to cook it down until fully wilted, then drain thoroughly to avoid watery creamed spinach. The texture will be slightly different but just as delicious.

Is sour cream necessary for the creaminess?

Sour cream is key for that signature tangy richness in the Creamiest creamed spinach. You could experiment with cream cheese or Greek yogurt, but the flavor and texture will vary.

Can I make this vegan?

You can swap out dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and non-dairy milk, and replace the egg with a flax or chia seed mixture. However, it won’t be quite as rich or silky, but still tasty!

How can I make this dish less rich?

Use low-fat or skim milk and reduce the amount of sour cream slightly, but keep in mind that creaminess might diminish. Adding a bit more garlic and seasoning can help boost flavor if you do this.

Why is the egg added to creamed spinach?

The whisked egg acts as a natural thickener and binder, giving the sauce a velvety texture without adding heaviness or requiring additional cream.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Creamiest creamed spinach a try; it’s one of those feel-good dishes that transforms your meal with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave something warm and comforting on your plate. Once you whip up this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your culinary rotation.

Print