Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this exquisite recipe for **Southern Creamed Spinach**. This classic side dish, often the star alongside a perfectly cooked steak at upscale steakhouses, combines fresh or frozen spinach with rich, creamy cheese sauce and a subtle hint of spice. Whether you’re aiming to recreate that luxurious restaurant experience at home or simply seeking a delectable vegetable side, this easy-to-follow recipe promises a dish that’s both comforting and undeniably elegant.
This post contains affiliate links. Please read my full disclosure here.
There’s nothing quite like the experience of a fantastic steakhouse meal. The sizzling aroma, the perfectly seared cuts of meat, and, of course, the unforgettable side dishes. Places like Morton’s, Ruth’s Chris, and Capital Grille have mastered the art of elevating classic accompaniments, and their creamed spinach is always a standout. This recipe is my tried-and-true copycat, designed to bring that gourmet flavor directly to your dining table. If you’re a fan of the creamy, savory indulgence found at establishments like Outback Steakhouse, prepare to be even more impressed by this homemade rendition.
What Type of Spinach to Use: Frozen vs Fresh
One of the beauties of this Southern Creamed Spinach recipe is its versatility, allowing you to use either fresh or frozen spinach. I’ve personally tested this dish extensively with both, and while both yield delicious results, each comes with its own considerations. My preference leans slightly towards fresh spinach due to its quicker preparation time.
When opting for fresh spinach, you’ll typically need a substantial amount, as it wilts down significantly during cooking. A 32-ounce bag of fresh spinach might seem like a lot, but it reduces dramatically, concentrating its flavor and making it easier to incorporate into the creamy sauce. The main advantage of fresh spinach is avoiding the thawing and draining process, which can be quite time-consuming.
If you choose frozen spinach, the thawing and thorough draining steps are absolutely crucial. Frozen spinach retains a remarkable amount of water, and if not properly squeezed out, it will lead to a watery, less creamy dish. To achieve the desired rich texture, you’ll need to thaw the spinach completely (overnight in the refrigerator or using a quick thaw method), then place it in a colander and press out as much liquid as possible. I often use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out every last drop. For frozen spinach, typically 15-16 ounces (which often comes in two 10-ounce packages) will be equivalent to the fresh amount after wilting and draining. While it requires an extra step, frozen spinach offers unparalleled convenience in terms of availability and longer shelf life.
The Unforgettable Flavor Profile
The hallmark of an exceptional steakhouse creamed spinach lies in its distinct and balanced flavor profile. Beyond the inherent savory notes of spinach and rich cream, two key ingredients truly elevate this dish: garlic and nutmeg.
Garlic provides a robust, aromatic base that complements the earthiness of the spinach beautifully. Using freshly minced garlic, rather than pre-minced, will deliver the most vibrant and pungent flavor. It’s often sautéed gently with onions to release its full fragrance, creating a foundation of savory depth.
The secret ingredient that often surprises home cooks is nutmeg. Yes, nutmeg! While commonly associated with sweet dishes like Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes, a small hint of freshly grated nutmeg (or ground nutmeg) introduces a warm, nutty, and subtly sweet nuance that perfectly balances the rich, savory elements. It doesn’t overpower the dish but rather enhances the overall complexity, adding a layer of sophisticated flavor that’s characteristic of high-end restaurant versions. If you’re hesitant about nutmeg, a tiny pinch goes a long way. Alternatively, you can substitute it with allspice for a similar warm spice note or omit it entirely if you prefer, though I highly recommend giving it a try for an authentic taste experience.
Achieving the Perfect Creaminess
The irresistible creaminess of Southern Creamed Spinach is what makes it so luxurious and satisfying. This recipe achieves its velvety texture through a harmonious blend of cream cheese and sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt). These dairy components are essential for creating a sauce that coats the spinach beautifully without being overly heavy or greasy.
Cream cheese provides a rich, tangy base, contributing significantly to both the texture and flavor. Its high-fat content ensures a smooth, decadent mouthfeel. For best results, use room temperature cream cheese, as it will melt and incorporate into the sauce much more smoothly, preventing lumps. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, a brief stint in the microwave can help soften it.
Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt adds a lighter tang and helps to thin out the cream cheese slightly, creating a more balanced and pourable sauce. Greek yogurt offers a similar tang and creaminess but with fewer calories and more protein, making it a great alternative if you’re looking to lighten the dish slightly without sacrificing flavor. You can adjust the proportions of cream cheese and sour cream/yogurt to achieve your desired level of richness and tanginess. While you *could* use only cream cheese or only sour cream, the combination truly creates a more complex and superior flavor profile.
The measurements provided in this recipe are designed to produce a truly creamy spinach. However, this is a very forgiving dish. If you prefer a less rich or slightly thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Conversely, for an even creamier result, simply add a little more of either dairy product until it reaches your ideal texture. If your spinach seems too dense, a splash of milk or even a little chicken broth can help loosen it up. If it’s too watery (often due to insufficient draining of spinach), a quick simmer can help reduce the liquid, or you can add a touch more cream cheese.
How to Make Southern Creamed Spinach
Creating this irresistible Southern Creamed Spinach is surprisingly straightforward, involving just a few simple steps to bring all the flavors together. The detailed measurements and full instructions are available in the recipe card at the bottom of this post, but here’s a quick overview of the process:
- **Sauté Aromatics:** Begin by heating olive oil in a large pan or skillet. A 10-inch cast iron skillet works wonderfully for its even heat distribution and ability to go from stovetop to oven (if desired). Add your finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking them for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This step forms the aromatic base of your dish.
- **Wilt the Spinach:** Introduce the fresh spinach to the pan. Don’t be alarmed by the sheer volume; spinach wilts down considerably. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the spinach has significantly reduced in size and is tender. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and excess water has been squeezed out before adding it to the pan.
- **Create the Creamy Sauce:** Now for the star of the show – the creaminess! Add the room temperature cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Stir continuously, allowing the cheeses to melt and combine with the spinach. Continue cooking for a few minutes until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture transforms into a luscious, smooth, and creamy sauce.
- **Season to Perfection:** Finally, season your creamed spinach with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to taste. It’s always best to start with a small amount of nutmeg (around ⅛th of a teaspoon) and then taste and adjust. Too much can overpower the dish, so build up the flavor gradually.
- **Serve:** Once seasoned to your liking and perfectly creamy, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken just a touch more.
Parmesan Cheese: The Heart of the Flavor
The quality of your Parmesan cheese can dramatically impact the final taste of your Southern Creamed Spinach. In this recipe, I highly recommend using a block of genuine **Parmigiano Reggiano cheese**. Often referred to as the “King of Cheeses,” Parmigiano Reggiano is a hard, granular cheese that boasts a rich, nutty, and savory flavor profile with crystalline notes. It is always produced in specific regions of Italy (Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua) under strict regulations, ensuring its authenticity and superior quality.
Many cheeses labeled simply “Parmesan Cheese” in grocery stores are often imitations that can be made anywhere in the world and frequently contain anti-caking agents. While they may resemble true Parmesan, their flavor and texture are noticeably different. Parmigiano Reggiano, though more expensive, offers an unparalleled depth of flavor that genuinely elevates this dish. When freshly grated from a block, it melts beautifully into the creamy sauce, contributing a complex saltiness and umami that powdered or pre-shredded varieties simply cannot match.
That being said, feel free to use your preferred type of Parmesan cheese. If convenience is a priority, a good quality pre-grated Parmesan can still yield a delicious dish. However, for that authentic steakhouse experience, investing in a wedge of Parmigiano Reggiano is truly worthwhile.
Additional Ways to Flavor and Season
While the classic garlic, onion, and nutmeg combination creates a fantastic Southern Creamed Spinach, you can always experiment with additional seasonings to tailor the flavor to your preference or to match your main course. Here are a few ideas to add an extra layer of deliciousness:
- Homemade Ranch Seasoning: A spoonful of ranch seasoning can add a herbaceous, savory, and slightly tangy kick, perfectly complementing the creamy base.
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning: For those who love a little heat and bold flavor, Cajun seasoning introduces a spicy, smoky, and complex profile that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the creamed spinach.
- **Smoked Paprika**: A sprinkle of smoked paprika offers a beautiful smoky aroma and a hint of sweet pepperiness, adding depth without necessarily introducing significant heat. It’s particularly good if you’re serving the spinach with grilled or smoked meats.
- **Red Pepper Flakes**: For a gentle warmth and a subtle kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can awaken the palate and add another dimension to the dish.
- **Onion Powder/Garlic Powder**: If you want to boost the onion or garlic flavor without adding more fresh aromatics, a touch of their powdered counterparts can do the trick.
- **A Touch of Lemon Zest**: A tiny bit of fresh lemon zest can brighten the entire dish, cutting through the richness and adding a vibrant, fresh note.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
One of the great things about this Southern Creamed Spinach is that it tastes just as delicious, if not more so, the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld. Proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and quality.
How to Store Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftover creamed spinach into an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly, and it will keep beautifully for 3-4 days. Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator and to maintain its moisture.
How to Reheat
Reheating creamed spinach is simple:
- **Microwave:** For a quick reheat, place your desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Adding a tablespoon of milk or cream before reheating can help restore its creamy consistency.
- **Stovetop:** For larger portions or a more even reheat, transfer the creamed spinach to a saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it’s warmed through and creamy. Again, a splash of milk or cream can be added if it appears too thick. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the dairy to separate.
Freezer Considerations
While technically possible to freeze, it’s important to note that this dish is made with several dairy products (cream cheese, sour cream/Greek yogurt, and Parmesan). Dairy-based sauces and dishes can often experience a textural change upon freezing and thawing, typically resulting in some separation. The sauce may become slightly grainy or watery when reheated, even if the flavor remains good.
If you do plan to freeze it, ensure it’s in an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly. You may need to whisk vigorously or add a splash of milk or cream to help re-emulsify the sauce and restore some of its original creaminess. Keep this potential textural difference in mind if you decide to freeze large batches.
Pair With These Main Dish Recipes
Southern Creamed Spinach is the quintessential side dish that effortlessly elevates any meal, particularly rich, savory main courses. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of proteins. Here are some fantastic main dish recipes that would be beautifully complemented by this decadent creamed spinach:
- Baked Turkey Wings: The rich, tender turkey wings would find a perfect partner in the creamy spinach.
- Smothered Chicken Wings: The savory gravy of smothered wings would pair wonderfully with the freshness of the spinach.
- Baked Crab Legs: The delicate sweetness of crab legs is magnificently balanced by the savory, creamy spinach.
- Pan Seared Salmon: A flaky, perfectly seared salmon fillet provides a healthy yet satisfying contrast to the indulgent spinach.
- Smothered Steak: For a truly comforting meal, serve this creamed spinach with a hearty, gravy-smothered steak.
- Nobu Miso Black Cod Recipe: The umami-rich flavors of miso-glazed cod would find a delightful counterpart in the creamy side.
- Poke Bowls with Spicy Mayo Sauce: While poke bowls are often light, a small side of creamed spinach can add a surprisingly delicious element.
- Pan Seared Cod with Lemon Butter: The light, citrusy notes of lemon butter cod would be beautifully grounded by the rich spinach.
- **Roast Chicken or Turkey:** A classic pairing that always delivers.
- **Pork Chops:** Whether grilled, pan-fried, or baked, pork chops benefit greatly from a creamy vegetable side.
- **Any Steak:** Naturally, it’s a steakhouse classic for a reason! From a simple pan-seared ribeye to a majestic prime rib, creamed spinach is the perfect partner.
More Delightful Vegetable Recipes
If you’re looking to expand your repertoire of delicious and comforting vegetable side dishes, here are some other fantastic recipes that will round out any meal, much like our Southern Creamed Spinach:
- Southern Creamed Corn: Another creamy, sweet, and savory classic.
- Southern Mustard Greens: A flavorful and slightly bitter green, cooked to perfection.
- Fried Potatoes and Onions: A simple yet incredibly satisfying hearty side.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A naturally sweet and creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
- Smothered Potatoes and Onions: Tender potatoes and onions cooked down in a rich, savory sauce.
- Ranch Mashed Potatoes: A flavorful twist on classic mashed potatoes, infused with zesty ranch seasoning.
- Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese: Layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce with crispy bacon.
Southern Creamed Spinach with Fresh or Frozen Spinach
By Brandi Crawford
This is the best Southern Creamed Spinach recipe. This classic dish is made using fresh or frozen spinach and Parmesan. Serve this creamy, cheesy dish alongside any of your favorite main dish meals, for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Want to save this recipe for later?
I’ll email it to you, so you can come back to it later! You will also get our free digital cookbook with 30-Minute One-Pot Recipes and weekly recipes and tips.
(Please note: This is a static HTML representation. The original site features an interactive form to save the recipe.)
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Stainless Steel Frying Pan
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ cup chopped onion (I used white onions.)
- 3-4 garlic cloves (Minced)
- 32 oz fresh spinach (See notes for frozen spinach equivalent.)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano Reggiano)
- ⅛-¼ teaspoon nutmeg (See notes for usage. Start with less.)
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped onions to a large pan or skillet (a 10-inch cast iron works well).
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pan. Initially, it will seem like a lot, but it will quickly wilt down. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is tender and has significantly reduced in volume.
- Stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir and cook for a few minutes over medium-low heat until all the dairy ingredients are fully melted, incorporated, and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Season the creamed spinach with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount of nutmeg (e.g., ⅛ teaspoon) and taste, adjusting as needed, as too much can overpower the dish.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly and flavors to deepen.
Notes
You can use either fresh or frozen spinach for this recipe. If using frozen spinach (approximately 15-16 oz), ensure you thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water. This step is critical; skipping it will result in a watery dish.
When adding nutmeg, always start with a small amount (⅛ teaspoon) and adjust to taste. Its distinct flavor can easily dominate if too much is added.
For the smoothest sauce, use room temperature cream cheese. You can gently soften it in the microwave if needed.
The recipe aims for a truly creamy consistency. Feel free to adjust the amounts of cream cheese or Greek yogurt if you prefer a less creamy or slightly thicker result. You can also add more spinach if desired for a higher vegetable-to-sauce ratio.
If the dish isn’t as creamy as you’d like, stir in an extra tablespoon or two of cream cheese or Greek yogurt while reheating.
Nutrition
Calories: 188kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 11g
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
Tried this recipe? Mention @Stay_Snatched or tag #StaySnatched!
Subscribe to our Youtube Channel! Check out our videos!
Tried this recipe? Let us know how it was!