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This is the perfect classic side dish of creamed spinach, it works well with any kind of meat from a hearty steak to chicken.

This version is extra special because it has cream cheese which makes the spinach silky, and creamy and also adds a lovely richness to the dish. Easy Roasted Side dish perfect for weekday meals, or the holiday table!!!

Ingredients for Creamed Spinach with Cream Cheese

This recipe requires just a few ingredients, many of which you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound fresh spinach
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions for Making Creamed Spinach with Cream Cheese

Prepare the Spinach

So if you are going to use fresh spinach, first wash it well several times and separate the hard part of its leaves. In a large pan, add a little water and wilt the spinach (2 – 3 mins). Squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible. You can use frozen spinach, if you do, be sure it is completely thawed and drained.

Sauté the Garlic

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Then put in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1-2 minutes, or until smells fragrant. Do not burn the garlic, it will become bitter.

Make the Cream Sauce

After a minute of fragrant garlic, add in the cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. This will provide the flavor for your creamed spinach. Mix in the onion powder, salt, and pepper (and optional nutmeg).

Add the Spinach

Add the cooked spinach to the cream sauce. Fold in gently Whisk and make sure the cream has a thick consistency, then add some spinach to it. Top with Parmesan cheese and mix up well.

Simmer and Serve

Let the creamed spinach simmer for 2 to three minutes. This will help the flavor mixture and allow your sauce to thicken just a bit. Season to taste and adjust if needed. When it’s nice and creamy, remove the pan from heat (do not let it get too hot) and serve with a spoon straight away.

Tips for Perfect Creamed Spinach

• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: If you overcook the spinach, it becomes mushy in texture. If you want to avoid this, then cook the spinach only up until it wilts or is heated through. If you use raw spinach your sauce will have a much water-ish nature whereas if it is frozen, make sure you get rid of all the water and put it so as not to make it redundant.
• Drain the spinach well: Bacon-Creamed Spinach: Add crispy, crumbled bacon to the creamed spinach for a smoky, savory twist. Sauté the bacon first, then use the rendered bacon fat to cook the garlic and onions before proceeding with the recipe.
• Cheesy Creamed Spinach: For an extra indulgent version, stir in additional cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or cheddar. This will make the dish even creamier and richer, perfect for pairing with roasted meats.

• Spinach and Artichoke Cream Cheese Dip: Turn this creamed spinach recipe into a party dip by adding chopped artichokes to the mixture. Serve it warm with crusty bread or crackers for a delicious appetizer.
• Keto-Friendly Creamed Spinach: If you’re following a keto diet, this dish is already low in carbohydrates. Simply use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream to ensure it fits within your macros.
• Garlic-Parmesan Creamed Spinach: For a stronger garlic flavor, increase the amount of garlic in the recipe and top the finished dish with extra Parmesan cheese for a punch of umami.
• Use full-fat cream cheese: It adds a melt-in-your-mouth creamy richness to the spinach that pairs well with it. Low Fat Cream Cheese: Low-fat cream cheese also works, but it may not be quite as creamy.
• Add nutmeg for depth: A tiny pinch adds this layer of warmth to the dish which serves as a break from all the creaminess.

Variations

• Bacon-Creamed Spinach — Crispy, crumbled bacon kicks this creamed spinach up a notch with a smoky, savory flavor. Cook the bacon first, then transfer to a plate and saute garlic and onions in the bacon fat before making the recipe as written.
• Extra Cheesy Creamed Spinach: Add some mozzarella, Gruyère or mild cheddar. This will add a layer of creaminess and richness to the dish, perfect for flavoring with roasted meats.
• Spinach and Artichoke Cream Cheese Dip: Use this recipe for creamed spinach to make a yummy dip for parties by adding chopped artichokes. Pair it with warm, crusty bread or crackers for a tasty starter.
• Keto Creamed Spinach: For those following a keto diet, this dish is naturally low in carbs. Just be sure to use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for optimal keto nutrition.
• Garlic-Parmesan Creamed Spinach: For extra garlic, double the amount in this recipe and sprinkle some Parmesan over top—your taste buds will thank you.

Pairing Suggestions

Spinach sautéed in cream cheese is a great side dish to accompany many meals. Here are a few pairing ideas:

Steak: Creamed spinach makes a fabulous side to a great piece of meat. ~ It’s a rich, creamy spinach that pairs perfectly with the hearty, savory flavors of the meat.

Roast chicken: Serving with roast chicken or turkey for a hearty meal.

Grilled fish: the richness of the spinach works well with grilled or baked, light fish such as salmon, cod, or tilapia

Storing and Reheating

Keep any remaining creamed spinach in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you are ready to reheat it, heat on the stove in a skillet over medium with the addition of some cream or milk if the sauce has gotten too thick.

Conclusion

This recipe for Creamed Spinach with Cream Cheese is a creamy twist on the classic dish! The cream cheese adds an indulgent, velvety texture and a slightly sour edge that works well in harmony with the grassy spinach.

No matter, how you choose to indulge in it, with steak, chicken, or fish fry – your home & family will love you for the same! Serve this easy pasta recipe for dinner with smoky and creamy flavors, you will be so satisfied! This warm and delicious dish will become a favorite in your recipe lineup.