Decadent Cheesy Creamed Spinach: A Luscious, Irresistible Recipe

Photo byAngie Bright

There’s something about creamed spinach that feels like pure comfort. Now, imagine that classic dish elevated with the addition of gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan cheese—what you get is a luscious, cheesy creamed spinach that’s both irresistible and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're serving it as a side dish to complement your favorite meal or spreading it on toasted bread for a cozy snack, this cheesy creamed spinach is bound to become a household favorite.

The Magic of Cheesy Creamed Spinach

Spinach often gets a reputation for being a health food, but when combined with butter, cream, and cheese, it transforms into something decadent and heartwarming. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between rich, creamy indulgence and the earthy, fresh flavor of spinach. The mozzarella gives it a smooth, melty texture, while the Parmesan adds a salty bite that will have you coming back for more.

One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish with roasted chicken or steak, or even over pasta or rice for a quick meal. If you're feeling creative, try spooning it over toasted bread for a savory spinach toast—an easy yet satisfying twist on a classic.

Cheesy Creamed Spinach Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh spinach, washed and stems removed
• 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)

Directions:

1. In a large pot or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Gradually add the fresh spinach to the pot, stirring frequently until all the spinach is wilted down.
4. Once the spinach has wilted, sprinkle the flour over the spinach mixture, stirring well to combine. Let it cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly as the mixture begins to thicken.
6. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and incorporated into a smooth sauce.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you prefer a touch of warmth.
8. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy it as a side dish or over toast for a delicious cheesy spinach treat.

A Dish for Every Occasion

Cheesy creamed spinach offers a fantastic way to sneak in some extra greens without sacrificing flavor. It’s a dish that works for family dinners, special gatherings, or even as a cozy comfort food snack on a chilly day. You can easily customize the dish by adding your favorite cheeses, or even mix in some sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and depth.

Once you give this recipe a try, you'll quickly see why it's a crowd-pleaser. The combination of creamy textures and cheesy goodness makes this a standout addition to any meal. Get ready to wow your taste buds with every bite of this rich, flavorful spinach dish.

Here are some great sources for making Cheesy Creamed Spinach, each offering their own unique twists on the classic dish:

1. Serious Eats offers a recipe for creamed spinach that is both indulgent and flavorful. It involves slowly cooking the spinach to concentrate its flavor, and the addition of crème fraîche adds a touch of brightness at the end. This recipe also includes a bit of nutmeg and Parmesan for added depth​Serious Eats​Serious Eats.
2. AllRecipes provides a quick and easy version of Cheesy Creamed Spinach that combines spinach with both provolone and Parmesan cheese. It's a rich, cheesy dish that comes together in just 30 minutes​Allrecipes.
3. Umami Girl offers a steakhouse-style creamed spinach recipe, where the spinach is mixed with milk, butter, and Parmesan, and flavored with garlic and nutmeg. The recipe includes handy tips for using fresh or frozen spinach, and advice on reheating leftovers​Umami Girl.