It’s time for some cranberry, pumpkin, apples, and everything spiced! Sweater season is here which means we’re hungrier than ever. Want to know what food to cook this Fall? Keep on reading!
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Creamed Spinach
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Indulge in velvety Creamed Spinach prepared two ways—stovetop or slow cooker! Fresh spinach meets a luxurious blend of cream, garlic, and cream cheese, creating a delectable side dish that's both effortlessly made and endlessly satisfying. Whether simmered on the stovetop for quick enjoyment or gently cooked in the slow cooker for hands-off perfection, savor every creamy bite of this delightful dish.
Table of contents
Creamed Spinach
What's the history of creamed spinach?
Creamed spinach has a history rooted in French cuisine. The dish has its origins in a French method of cooking spinach called "à la crème," which translates to "with cream."
Spinach itself has been cultivated for centuries, but its popularity surged in the 17th century, especially in France and Italy. French cuisine, known for its rich sauces and creamy preparations, often featured spinach cooked in cream as a luxurious side dish.
The idea of creamed spinach spread beyond France and became popular in various European and American culinary traditions over time. It evolved differently in different regions, with varying additions and techniques. Creamed spinach gained prominence in the United States as a classic side dish, particularly during the mid-20th century, often gracing the menus of steakhouses and traditional American restaurants.
The dish typically involves spinach wilted or blanched and then combined with a creamy sauce, often incorporating ingredients like cream, butter, and sometimes cheese or garlic for added flavor. Over the years, variations of creamed spinach have emerged, but its essence as a comforting, creamy spinach dish remains consistent across different culinary interpretations.
What types of gatherings, holidays, and events would it be good to serve creamed spinach at?
Creamed spinach can be a versatile side dish suitable for various gatherings, holidays, and events due to its comforting and flavorful nature. Here are some occasions where creamed spinach could be a hit:
- Holiday Meals: Creamed spinach complements traditional holiday feasts, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners, as a luxurious and comforting side dish alongside roasted turkey, ham, or other main courses.
- Dinner Parties: Whether it's an elegant dinner party or a casual gathering, creamed spinach can add a touch of sophistication to the table. It pairs well with various main dishes and can impress guests with its creamy texture and rich flavors.
- Potluck Gatherings: Creamed spinach can be a standout side dish at potluck events. Its creamy goodness offers a contrast to other dishes and can be a favorite among guests.
- Family Reunions: Creamed spinach is a dish that can cater to different tastes and ages, making it suitable for family reunions where you have a diverse group of people with varied preferences.
- Steak Nights or Grilled Dinners: Creamed spinach is a classic side for steak dinners. Its creamy texture balances the richness of a juicy steak or grilled meats.
- Elegant Celebrations: For more formal events like anniversary celebrations, upscale gatherings, or intimate dinners, creamed spinach can be a sophisticated addition to the menu.
What's the prep time?
The prep time for this Creamed Spinach recipe, regardless of the cooking method (stovetop or slow cooker), is quite similar:
- Stovetop Method: The prep time typically ranges around 15 to 20 minutes, including washing and trimming the spinach, blanching, chopping, and preparing the cream sauce.
- Slow Cooker Method: The prep time remains about the same, as it involves the same initial steps of prepping and combining the ingredients. It takes around 15 to 20 minutes to prepare the spinach, combine the ingredients in the slow cooker, and set it up for cooking.
The time might slightly vary based on individual preparation speed and experience in the kitchen. However, both methods have relatively straightforward prep processes before cooking.
What's the cooking time?
The cooking time for the Creamed Spinach recipe differs based on the cooking method:
- Stovetop Method: Once the ingredients are combined in the skillet or saucepan, the creamed spinach usually simmers for about 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Slow Cooker Method: When using a slow cooker, the creamed spinach cooks on low heat for approximately 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, it can be cooked on high for 1 to 2 hours, ensuring to stir occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
These times are approximate and might slightly vary based on individual slow cooker settings and the desired consistency of the creamed spinach. Keep an eye on the dish, especially near the end of the cooking time, to ensure it reaches your preferred thickness and flavors.
What diets and/or diet lifestyles does this recipe adhere to?
This Creamed Spinach recipe can align with various dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it doesn't contain any meat or animal products.
- Low-Carb: While it contains dairy and spinach, which have low to moderate carb content, individuals following a low-carb diet may need to be mindful of portion sizes due to the cream and cream cheese.
- Gluten-Free: The recipe, as provided, doesn't include gluten-containing ingredients, making it appropriate for a gluten-free diet.
- Lacto-Vegetarian: The recipe contains dairy in the form of heavy cream and cream cheese, fitting within a lacto-vegetarian diet.
- Flexitarian or Omnivorous Diets: Though it's a vegetarian dish, it can complement various main courses for individuals following flexitarian or omnivorous diets.
- Keto (with modifications): With adjustments such as reducing the amount of onions or garlic and being mindful of portion sizes due to the dairy content, this recipe can fit into a keto diet.
Always consider individual dietary needs and make modifications as necessary, especially for stricter dietary plans like keto or low-carb diets.
Creamed Spinach Two Ways: Stovetop & Slow Cooker/Crock Pot
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
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Two ways to enjoy delicious Creamed Spinach – whether on the stovetop for a quicker meal or in the slow cooker for a more hands-off approach. Choose the method that suits your schedule and enjoy this delightful side dish!
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Creamed Spinach
Yield:
6 servings
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
5 minutes
Total Time:
5 minutes
Indulge in velvety Creamed Spinach prepared two ways—stovetop or slow cooker! Fresh spinach meets a luxurious blend of cream, garlic, and cream cheese, creating a delectable side dish that's both effortlessly made and endlessly satisfying. Whether simmered on the stovetop for quick enjoyment or gently cooked in the slow cooker for hands-off perfection, savor every creamy bite of this delightful dish.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Stovetop Method
- Blanch the Spinach: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the spinach and blanch for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Squeeze out excess water from the spinach and chop it roughly.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add Cream and Cream Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir well until the cream cheese melts and is incorporated into the sauce. Add nutmeg if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer and Thicken: Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the spinach. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor before serving.
Slow Cooker/Crock Pot Method:
- Prepare Spinach: Blanch the spinach as described in the stovetop method. Squeeze out excess water and chop the blanched spinach roughly.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker/crock pot, add the chopped spinach, minced garlic, butter, heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and nutmeg (if using). Stir to combine.
- Cooking Time: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the creamed spinach for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, cook on high for 1-2 hours, ensuring to stir occasionally.
- Check Consistency: If the creamed spinach seems too thin, you can cook it uncovered for the last 30 minutes to help thicken the sauce.
- Serve: Once the creamed spinach reaches your desired consistency, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve it hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Recipe Tips for Success
- Fresh Spinach Choice: Opt for fresh spinach over frozen for better texture and flavor. Wash and trim the spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any grit.
- Blanching Technique: When blanching the spinach, ensure not to overcook it. The goal is to wilt the leaves slightly before immediately transferring them to ice water to preserve their vibrant green color and prevent overcooking.
- Creamy Consistency: For a creamy and smooth texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the mixture. Stir well until it blends evenly into the sauce.
- Flavor Enhancers: Nutmeg adds a subtle depth to the dish. Use it sparingly as it can quickly overpower the flavors. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference.
- Seasoning: Season the creamed spinach with salt and pepper at the right stages—taste and adjust as needed. Remember, cream cheese might add some saltiness, so start with a little and add more if necessary.
- Thickening the Sauce: If the creamed spinach appears too thin, continue simmering until it reaches your desired consistency. For the slow cooker method, cooking uncovered for the last 30 minutes can help thicken the sauce.
- Stirring in Slow Cooker: When using the slow cooker, stir the creamed spinach occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking at the bottom.
- Garnish Ideas: Consider topping the dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of freshly ground nutmeg before serving for an added layer of flavor.
- Adjusting Servings: Easily adjust the ingredient quantities to accommodate larger or smaller servings based on your needs.
- Serving Fresh: Creamed spinach is best served fresh and hot. Serve it as a side dish alongside your favorite main course for optimal enjoyment.
Following these tips should help you create a delicious and creamy Creamed Spinach, whether prepared on the stovetop or in the slow cooker. Adjustments can always be made based on personal taste preferences!
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- First published: 11/24/2023
Owner at Life's Little Sweets
Sara is an architectural designer turned work-at-home Mom. She lives in New Jersey by way of New England and New York, with her husband and 3 kids under 8. She loves design, being creative, and spending time with family and friends. She loves checking out local businesses and eats and being apart of the local farm to table community.
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