Some side dishes are so incredibly comforting and delicious, they almost steal the show from the main course. This Cheesy Creamed Spinach is definitely one of them! Imagine tender, wilted spinach bathed in a rich, velvety cream sauce, infused with aromatic garlic, and loaded with not one, but two kinds of melted cheese. It’s a classic for a reason: utterly decadent, surprisingly easy to make, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect as a luxurious side dish or even as a creamy, savory spread, this recipe elevates simple spinach to pure comfort food bliss.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Creamed Spinach is a personal favorite because it takes a humble vegetable and transforms it into something truly irresistible. What I love most is the sheer creaminess of the sauce. The combination of butter, cream, milk, and two cheeses creates a luscious, smooth texture that perfectly coats the tender spinach. The hint of garlic adds a wonderful savory depth, and the optional nutmeg provides that classic warm, subtle spice that elevates creamed spinach to gourmet status.

It’s also incredibly versatile. While it makes an amazing side dish for any meal, it’s also fantastic as a creamy spread for toast or even stirred into pasta. Plus, it comes together relatively quickly in one pan, making it a convenient and delicious addition to your weeknight repertoire or a standout dish for special occasions. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy your greens!

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh spinach, washed and stems removed (about 10-12 cups loosely packed)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Swaps and Notes

• Spinach: Fresh spinach is highly recommended for best results. Frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, but ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and very well squeezed dry to remove all excess water, otherwise your sauce will be watery.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the saltiness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce into a roux. For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, added slowly after cream/milk).
• Milk/Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream provide the richest, creamiest sauce. Half-and-half can be used for a slightly lighter version, but the texture might be thinner.
• Cheese: Mozzarella provides stretch and meltiness, while Parmesan adds salty, nutty depth. Freshly shredded/grated cheeses will melt smoother than pre-packaged shredded cheeses (which often contain anti-caking agents).
• Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg is a classic addition to creamed spinach, enhancing its savory notes subtly. Don’t skip it if you have it!
• Spice: A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle warmth if desired.

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Directions:

Making this Cheesy Creamed Spinach is straightforward and comes together quickly in one pan.

1. Melt Butter & Sauté Garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it’s fragrant but not browned.
2. Wilt Spinach: Gradually add the 1 lb fresh spinach to the pot. It will seem like a lot, but it will wilt down quickly. Stir the spinach constantly with tongs or a spoon until it has completely wilted, about 2-4 minutes.
3. Make Roux with Flour: Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour evenly over the wilted spinach. Stir well to combine, cooking for another minute to cook out the raw flour taste. The flour will coat the spinach and butter, creating a base for your sauce.
4. Add Liquids & Thicken: Slowly pour in the 1 cup whole milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream, stirring constantly with a whisk or spoon to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens to a smooth, creamy sauce, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Melt Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Add the 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until both cheeses are fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and luscious.
6. Season: Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, and add a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
7. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately.

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Pro Tip:

When adding the fresh spinach, add it in batches if your pot isn’t large enough. It will wilt down quickly, making room for more. Also, ensure your cheeses are at room temperature, and shred/grate them yourself if possible, as this helps them melt smoothly into the sauce without clumping.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cheesy Creamed Spinach is a versatile side dish that complements a wide array of main courses.

• Steakhouse Classic: It’s the quintessential side for grilled steak or prime rib.
• Roast Meats: Pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, pork loin, or turkey.
• Seafood: A perfect complement to baked salmon, pan-seared scallops, or even a creamy shrimp pasta like my Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo Pasta.
• Creamy Spinach Toast: Spoon it generously over toasted crusty bread for a quick and satisfying appetizer or light meal.
• Other Vegetable Sides: If you enjoy prepared vegetable sides, consider serving it alongside a plate of Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic or Baked Brussels Sprouts.

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Storage and Leftover Tips

Cheesy Creamed Spinach is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be delicious.

• Storage: Store any leftover Cheesy Creamed Spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The sauce will thicken considerably as it cools.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through.
• Best Fresh: For optimal creaminess and cheese texture, it is best consumed shortly after preparation.

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More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the creamy, comforting, and easy nature of this vegetable dish, you’ll definitely want to explore some of these other fantastic recipes:

• For another comforting and hearty meal, check out my This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor.
• If you’re a fan of savory one-pan chicken and vegetable dishes, don’t miss Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake.
• And for other classic comfort food recipes, my Best Ever Beef Stew or Slow-Braised Beef Short Ribs Over Buttery Mash are always great choices.

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Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Creamed Spinach recipe is a shining example of how a simple vegetable can be transformed into a truly decadent and satisfying dish. Its rich, garlicky, and incredibly cheesy sauce makes it an irresistible side that will win over even the most ardent spinach skeptics. Go ahead, whip up a batch, and experience the pure comfort and deliciousness of this classic!

What’s your favorite way to incorporate more greens into your meals? Share your tips and ideas in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and heartwarming recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.