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Creamy Parmesan Creamed Spinach with Fresh Herbs

creamy Parmesan creamed spinach - featured image
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This creamy Parmesan creamed spinach is a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish featuring fresh spinach, a silky-smooth cream sauce, and a burst of fresh herbs. Quick to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for holidays, weeknights, or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 18 oz (500g) fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion (about 1/2 cup), finely diced (optional)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, snipped (optional)
  • Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the baby spinach thoroughly in cold water. Spin dry using a salad spinner or pat dry with a clean towel. If using larger leaves, chop them coarsely.
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion (if using) and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add spinach a handful at a time, stirring constantly and letting each batch wilt before adding more. Cook for 4-6 minutes until all spinach is wilted and bright green. Spoon off excess liquid if needed.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth. Pour over wilted spinach. Stir to combine, then sprinkle in Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and coats the spinach evenly. If too thick, add a splash of milk or cream; if too thin, simmer longer.
  6. Stir in chopped basil, parsley, and chives (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. If desired, mix in red pepper flakes for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
  8. Spoon into a serving bowl, garnish with extra herbs and Parmesan, and serve hot. Alternatively, keep warm in a low oven (150°F) until ready to eat.

Notes

For best texture, use fresh spinach and freshly grated Parmesan. Add herbs at the end for maximum flavor. If sauce splits, whisk off heat with a splash of cold milk. Easily adapted for dairy-free or keto diets. Can be made ahead and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamed spinach, parmesan spinach, creamy spinach, easy side dish, holiday side, gluten-free, vegetarian, comfort food, fresh herbs, spinach recipe

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