12 Delicious Creamed Spinach Recipes for Every Occasion

Zesty, creamy, and utterly comforting, creamed spinach is the versatile side dish that steals the show at any meal. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a festive holiday feast, or simply craving some cozy comfort food, our roundup of 12 delicious creamed spinach recipes has something for every occasion. Dive in and discover your next favorite way to enjoy this classic dish!

Classic Creamed Spinach

Whenever I think of comfort food, my mind immediately goes to the creamy, velvety goodness of Classic Creamed Spinach. It’s a dish that reminds me of family gatherings and the joy of sharing a meal made with love. I’ve tweaked this recipe over the years to get it just right, and now, it’s a staple on my dinner table.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 10 oz fresh spinach, stems removed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to cook the flour.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
7. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
8. Add the spinach in batches, stirring until wilted before adding more.
9. Once all the spinach is wilted, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
10. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Classic Creamed Spinach is a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with a crispy piece of chicken or a juicy steak. For a twist, try serving it in a baked potato or as a dip with crusty bread.

Garlic Parmesan Creamed Spinach

This Garlic Parmesan Creamed Spinach is a game-changer for any dinner table, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the fresh, earthy flavors of spinach. I stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy winter evening when I was craving something rich yet somewhat healthy, and it’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 10 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Tip: Ensure the butter doesn’t brown to keep the sauce light in color.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter, stirring to combine, and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until the spinach is wilted and fully coated in the sauce, about 2-3 minutes. Tip: Fresh spinach wilts quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Perfectly creamy with a punch of garlic and a hint of nuttiness from the Parmesan, this dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a luxurious side to steak. For a twist, try serving it over toasted bread for a decadent open-faced sandwich.

Creamed Spinach with Bacon

Nothing beats the comfort of a creamy, savory side dish that brings both flavor and a touch of elegance to the table. Today, I’m sharing my go-to creamed spinach with bacon recipe, a dish that’s stolen the show at countless family dinners in my home. It’s the perfect blend of creamy and crispy, with a hint of smokiness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 10 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
2. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon drippings until translucent, about 3 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux, about 1 minute. Tip: The roux should be golden but not brown.
5. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted and fully incorporated into the sauce, about 2 minutes. Tip: Work in batches if your skillet is too small.
7. Season the creamed spinach with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, then stir in the reserved bacon. Cook for an additional minute to combine all the flavors.

You’ll love the creamy texture of the spinach paired with the crispy bacon bits, creating a dish that’s rich yet balanced. Serve it alongside a juicy steak or as a luxurious topping for baked potatoes for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Vegan Creamed Spinach

Perfectly creamy and packed with flavor, this Vegan Creamed Spinach is my go-to side dish for any occasion. I remember the first time I tried making it; the kitchen was a mess, but the result was so worth it. Now, it’s a staple in my home, especially during the holidays.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 lb fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1 small onion, finely chopped, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Drain 1 cup raw cashews and blend with 1 cup vegetable broth until smooth.
5. Add the cashew mixture to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
6. Gradually add 1 lb fresh spinach, roughly chopped, to the skillet, allowing it to wilt slightly before adding more.
7. Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg, stirring well to incorporate.
8. Cook the mixture on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is fully wilted and the sauce has thickened.

Creamy, rich, and subtly spiced, this Vegan Creamed Spinach pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes or as a luxurious topping for vegan lasagna. The cashew cream adds a decadent touch that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Slow Cooker Creamed Spinach

Goodness, have I got a treat for you today! There’s something incredibly comforting about coming home to a dish that’s been simmering away all day, filling the house with its inviting aroma. Slow Cooker Creamed Spinach is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. I remember the first time I tried it; I was skeptical about using a slow cooker for spinach, but the result was nothing short of magical.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

1. Place the fresh spinach in the slow cooker. It will seem like a lot, but it wilts down significantly.
2. Add the heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the slow cooker.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, stirring once halfway through to ensure even cooking. Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on HIGH for 1.5 hours, but LOW gives the best flavor.
4. After cooking, stir the spinach mixture well to combine all the ingredients. The cream cheese should be fully melted and incorporated. Tip: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the spinach slightly.
5. Serve hot. Tip: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a side to your favorite steak.

Here’s the best part: the creamed spinach comes out luxuriously creamy with a hint of nuttiness from the Parmesan and a subtle warmth from the nutmeg. It’s the kind of side dish that steals the show, and I love serving it in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an extra touch of indulgence.

Creamed Spinach with Mushrooms

Diving into the world of creamy, dreamy sides, I stumbled upon a dish that’s become a staple in my kitchen—creamed spinach with mushrooms. It’s the perfect blend of earthy and rich, and I love how it pairs with just about anything, from a simple grilled chicken to a fancy holiday roast.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 10 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Tip: Use a wide skillet to give the mushrooms enough room to brown properly.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until soft, about 3 minutes. Tip: Don’t rush this step; caramelizing the onions slightly will add depth to the dish.
4. Add spinach in batches, stirring until wilted before adding more, about 2 minutes total.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 2 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on the cream to prevent it from boiling over.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, about 1 minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

Kick back and enjoy the velvety texture and the way the mushrooms add a meaty bite to the creamy spinach. It’s fantastic served over toasted bread or as a side to your favorite protein.

Spicy Creamed Spinach

Having grown up in a household where spinach was a staple, I’ve always been on the lookout for ways to spice it up—literally. This Spicy Creamed Spinach recipe is my go-to when I want to add a little heat to our family dinners, and it’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 lb fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Gradually add the spinach to the skillet, allowing it to wilt before adding more, about 3 minutes total.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt and black pepper, then remove from heat.

Zesty and creamy, this dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a standalone side. The heat from the red pepper flakes elevates the spinach, making it a memorable part of any meal.

Creamed Spinach and Artichoke Dip

How many times have I found myself staring into the fridge, looking for something that’s both comforting and a bit fancy for those impromptu gatherings? Too many to count. That’s why this Creamed Spinach and Artichoke Dip has become my go-to. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it’s got that perfect balance of greens and heartiness that makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Tip: Squeeze out as much water as possible from the spinach to avoid a watery dip.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Tip: A shallow dish works best for even heating and a perfectly golden top.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden. Tip: Keep an eye on it after 20 minutes to prevent over-browning.
5. Let the dip cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Zesty and rich, this dip is a dream when served warm with crispy bread or crunchy veggies. The melted cheeses create a velvety texture, while the spinach and artichokes add a delightful bite. For an extra kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving does wonders.

Gluten-Free Creamed Spinach

Decadent, creamy, and utterly comforting, this gluten-free creamed spinach is a dish that never fails to remind me of family dinners during the holidays. It’s a recipe I’ve tweaked over the years to make it not only gluten-free but also irresistibly rich and flavorful. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply looking for a healthier twist on a classic, this dish is a game-changer.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 10 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1 small finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux, about 2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
7. Add 10 oz roughly chopped fresh spinach in batches, stirring until wilted and incorporated.
8. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Just like that, you’ve got a velvety, nutrient-packed side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a luxurious topping for baked potatoes. The Parmesan adds a salty depth that makes this creamed spinach anything but ordinary.

Creamed Spinach with Coconut Milk

After a long day of experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon a dish that’s both comforting and unexpectedly light—creamed spinach with coconut milk. It’s the perfect blend of creamy and fresh, making it a versatile side or even a main for those meatless Mondays.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 10 oz fresh spinach, washed
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 small diced onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Gradually add 10 oz fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes. Tip: Add the spinach in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
4. Pour in 1 cup coconut milk, stirring to combine with the spinach. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly. Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning before the next step.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Tip: Keep an eye on the heat to prevent the coconut milk from separating.
7. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Perfectly creamy with a hint of sweetness from the coconut milk, this dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a filling for stuffed mushrooms. The nutmeg adds a warm depth that makes it stand out from traditional creamed spinach recipes.

Creamed Spinach Stuffed Chicken

Back when I first experimented with stuffing chicken, I never imagined how a simple creamed spinach filling could elevate it to a whole new level. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I want to impress guests without spending hours cooking.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
3. Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being sure not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with an equal amount of the spinach mixture, then seal the opening with toothpicks.
5. Brush the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with breadcrumbs.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving.

Perfectly cooked, the chicken is juicy and tender, with the creamed spinach adding a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a crisp salad for a complete meal that’s sure to delight.

Creamed Spinach and Potato Gratin

This summer, I found myself craving something creamy yet comforting, a dish that bridges the gap between light summer eats and the hearty meals we all miss in warmer weather. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of combining two classics into one: creamed spinach and potato gratin. It’s a match made in heaven, with the earthy flavors of spinach perfectly complementing the creamy, cheesy potatoes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 lb fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, cooking until wilted, approximately 3 minutes. Tip: Squeeze out excess water from the spinach to prevent a soggy gratin.
4. Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish, followed by the cooked spinach, then the remaining potatoes.
5. In a bowl, mix the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture evenly over the potatoes and spinach.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Tip: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
8. For an extra touch, broil for the last 2 minutes to achieve a more pronounced crust.

Layers of tender potatoes and creamy spinach come together in this gratin, offering a delightful contrast in textures. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that elevates the dish, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or as a luxurious side to your main course.

Conclusion

Great choices await in our roundup of 12 Delicious Creamed Spinach Recipes for Every Occasion! Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, there’s a recipe here to delight. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below. Loved what you saw? Share the spinach love by pinning this article on Pinterest for others to enjoy. Happy cooking!