Are you tired of the same old boring spinach dishes? Look no further! Creamed spinach is a classic recipe that can be elevated to new heights with just a few simple twists. From decadent main courses to deliciously easy side dishes, we’ve got 21 creamy and delicious creamed spinach recipes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or looking for something a little more adventurous, there’s something on this list for everyone. We’ve got everything from rich and creamy sauces to bold and spicy twists, all featuring the humble star of the show: spinach. So go ahead, get creative, and take your creamed spinach game to the next level!
Classic Creamed Spinach with Garlic and Nutmeg
This rich and creamy spinach recipe is a timeless favorite, elevated by the addition of pungent garlic and warm nutmeg. It’s perfect for serving as a side dish or adding to pasta, risotto, or chicken dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the cream has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamed Spinach with Ricotta and Parmesan Cheese
This rich and creamy spinach dish is a perfect side for any meal, combining the subtle flavors of fresh spinach with the tanginess of ricotta cheese and the nutty taste of parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the spinach and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir the ricotta mixture into the spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Spinach and Mushroom Gratin
This creamy gratin is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses, featuring tender spinach and earthy mushrooms smothered in a rich cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender.
3. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Combine cooked mushroom mixture with cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Creamed Spinach with Coconut Milk
Vegan Creamed Spinach with Coconut Milk Recipe
Discover the creamy delight of spinach cooked in a rich coconut milk sauce, perfect for a comforting vegan meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves (about 8 oz)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet, cooking until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamed Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken dish with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of spinach with the tenderness of chicken breast. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Creamed Spinach with Jalapeños and Cream Cheese
A creamy, spicy twist on classic spinach, this recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the heat of jalapeños. Perfect as a side dish or stuffed inside pasta, this flavorful mixture is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add spinach, cream cheese, heavy cream, jalapeño, salt, and pepper. Stir until cream cheese is melted and spinach is well coated.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until desired consistency is reached.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This rich and creamy dip is perfect for any gathering or party. With the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and Parmesan cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, cream cheese, and mayonnaise.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and slightly golden brown on top.
7. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Creamed Spinach Stuffed Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this decadent recipe, perfect for a cozy night in. Crispy bacon, creamy spinach, and gooey cheese create a rich flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, sauté crumbled bacon in butter until crispy. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate pan, combine spinach and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
5. Stuff each potato with a spoonful of the bacon mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
6. Return stuffed potatoes to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Creamed Spinach with Crispy Shallots and Gruyère
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and creamy spinach recipe featuring crispy shallots and nutty Gruyère cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 shallot, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in spinach, salt, and pepper.
5. Meanwhile, toss shallots with olive oil and season with salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
6. Remove skillet from heat; stir in Gruyère cheese until melted. Serve warm, topped with crispy shallots.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Low-Carb Creamed Spinach with Almond Milk
A creamy and healthy twist on a classic spinach dish, this low-carb recipe is perfect for those looking to reduce their carb intake. Using almond milk instead of heavy cream keeps the calorie count in check while still delivering a rich and indulgent flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the almond milk and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Spinach and Goat Cheese Tart
A savory tart filled with creamy spinach and tangy goat cheese, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a separate pan, sauté garlic and spinach until wilted. Add goat cheese crumbles and stir until combined.
4. Spread the spinach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamed Spinach with Garlic Butter Breadcrumbs
A rich and savory side dish that’s sure to impress. This creamy spinach recipe is elevated by the addition of crispy garlic butter breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (for breadcrumb mixture)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and minced garlic.
6. Spread breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the spinach mixture.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Creamed Spinach Soup with Fresh Herbs
This rich and creamy soup is a perfect comfort food, packed with the nutrients of spinach and the freshness of herbs. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add spinach and broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until spinach is wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender; puree until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamed Spinach with Caramelized Onions and Brie
This rich and savory dish combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of spinach and brie cheese, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Caramelize onions in a large skillet over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add spinach leaves to the creamy mixture and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked onions and brie cheese with the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamed Spinach and Shrimp Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this indulgent pasta dish, featuring succulent shrimp, creamy spinach, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and creamy spinach mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Creamed Spinach with Roasted Garlic and White Cheddar
Elevate your spinach game with this rich and creamy recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted garlic with the tanginess of white cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated white cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap garlic cloves in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove roasted garlic from oven and squeeze out of its skin into the skillet with the spinach.
5. Stir in white cheddar cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Instant Pot Creamed Spinach with Heavy Cream
Elevate your meals with a rich and creamy spinach dish, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This recipe yields a tender and flavorful side that pairs well with many main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add spinach, salt, and pepper. Stir until the spinach is well coated with the butter mixture.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and stir in heavy cream. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (5 minutes of cooking time + 5 minutes of natural pressure release)
Creamed Spinach and Smoked Gouda Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and creamy twist on a classic mushroom dish. Earthy portobello mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of creamed spinach, melted smoked gouda, and aromatic thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps and remove stems.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cool slightly.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
6. Top each mushroom with grated smoked Gouda cheese and sprinkle with thyme.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamed Spinach and Bacon Dutch Baby Pancake
This recipe combines the richness of creamed spinach with the smoky flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a fluffy Dutch baby pancake. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a pan, sauté the crumbled bacon until crispy, then set aside.
3. In the same pan, add butter and cook spinach until wilted. Add heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and flour. Pour in cooked spinach mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 10-inch skillet or Dutch oven. Cook for 20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and top with crispy bacon. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamed Spinach with Lemon Zest and Feta Cheese
This vibrant side dish is a perfect blend of tangy, creamy, and savory flavors. Perfect for accompanying pasta, chicken, or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in lemon zest and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Phyllo Cups
A delicious and elegant appetizer or snack that combines the flavors of creamy spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and crispy phyllo. These bite-sized cups are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, garlic, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and salt & pepper. Mix well.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into squares.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the spinach mixture onto each square, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold squares into triangles or cups, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with a little olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of creamy, delicious spinach recipes with a twist! From classic comfort food to innovative twists and international flavors, this collection of 21 recipes has something for everyone. Classics like creamed spinach with garlic and nutmeg are joined by unique variations featuring ricotta and parmesan cheese, mushrooms, artichokes, and more. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, main course, or snack, these creamy spinach recipes will inspire your next meal.