There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of warm, creamy spinach. Whether it’s served alongside a perfectly roasted chicken, a juicy steak, or a simple grilled fish, Creamed Spinach with Garlic and Onion transforms an ordinary meal into something special. This dish is ideal for cozy family dinners, elegant holiday gatherings, or weeknight meals when you crave something both hearty and wholesome.
The inspiration for this recipe comes from the classic steakhouse side dish that so many of us know and love. But instead of using heavy, restaurant-style ingredients, this version keeps it simple and flavorful — made with fresh spinach, caramelized onions, and aromatic garlic. The result is a creamy, savory, and perfectly balanced dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of spinach without overpowering it. It’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth to any table and guarantees everyone will ask for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Creamed Spinach with Garlic and Onion
If you’ve never made creamed spinach at home before, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is rich without being overly heavy, thanks to a perfectly balanced blend of creaminess and freshness. The sautéed garlic and onion add layers of flavor that elevate simple spinach into a side worth savoring. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
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Simple ingredients, big flavor: You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce.
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Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
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Versatile: Serve it as a side dish or even as a topping for baked potatoes, pasta, or toast.
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Family-friendly: Even picky eaters tend to love this creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 pound (450 g) fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
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½ cup cream cheese, softened
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
Directions
1. Prepare the Spinach
Begin by washing your spinach thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt. If using large leaves, trim off any thick stems and roughly chop the leaves. Set aside.
In a large pot, bring a few cups of water to a boil. Add the spinach and blanch for about 1–2 minutes, just until wilted and vibrant green. Drain immediately and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, squeeze out any excess moisture using clean hands or a kitchen towel. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn — it should release a warm, savory aroma that fills your kitchen.
3. Make the Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Whisk gently until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly — about 3–5 minutes.
Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the spinach beautifully, but it’s entirely optional.
4. Combine Spinach with Cream Sauce
Add the blanched and squeezed spinach to the skillet. Gently fold it into the creamy sauce until the leaves are evenly coated. Let the mixture simmer for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the creamed spinach is perfectly smooth and velvety, remove it from the heat. Serve it immediately while warm, either as a side dish or as a creamy topping for your main course.
It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, seared salmon, mashed potatoes, or even a hearty lentil loaf. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top right before serving.
Tips for the Best Creamed Spinach
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Use fresh spinach if possible. Frozen spinach can work, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the sauce.
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Don’t rush the onions. Allowing them to caramelize slightly adds natural sweetness that balances the creaminess.
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Adjust thickness to your liking. Add more cream for a looser sauce or let it simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
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Try a lighter version. Substitute heavy cream with milk or use light cream cheese for fewer calories without sacrificing flavor.
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Enhance with texture. Add a handful of sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top for a little crunch.
How to Serve Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is incredibly versatile. It’s a side dish that complements both everyday dinners and festive feasts. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:
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With grilled or roasted meats: It’s the perfect creamy contrast to savory proteins like chicken, beef, or turkey.
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As a vegetarian main: Spoon it over baked potatoes or toss it with pasta for a simple, satisfying meal.
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On toast: Spread it over crusty bread and top with a poached egg for a hearty brunch.
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With rice or quinoa: A great way to turn this into a balanced, nourishing bowl.
No matter how you serve it, this creamed spinach brings a touch of comfort and restaurant-quality flavor to your table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about this recipe is that it stores and reheats beautifully. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
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Refrigerate: Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freeze: You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
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Reheat: Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore the smooth texture.
Avoid reheating in the microwave for too long, as the cream may separate.
Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is not just delicious — it’s also packed with nutrients that support overall health. Here’s why you’ll want to make this dish a regular part of your menu:
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Rich in iron and calcium: Essential for maintaining healthy blood and bones.
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High in vitamins A, C, and K: These boost your immune system and promote glowing skin.
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Excellent source of antioxidants: Spinach helps combat inflammation and supports heart health.
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Low in calories, high in fiber: Ideal for those looking for a nutritious, satisfying side without the guilt.
By pairing spinach with a creamy, flavorful sauce, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy your greens in the most delicious way possible.
Recipe Variations
While this classic version is a favorite, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand:
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Add cheese: Try mixing in shredded mozzarella, Gruyère, or white cheddar for extra indulgence.
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Go dairy-free: Replace butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut or oat cream.
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Add spice: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne adds gentle heat.
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Make it heartier: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, corn, or even diced roasted bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
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Bake it: Transfer the finished creamed spinach to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
These variations ensure you can enjoy creamed spinach any way you like — from light and healthy to rich and decadent.
Perfect Pairings
If you’re planning a complete meal, here are a few ideas to round out your menu:
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Main Courses:
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Herb-roasted chicken
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Pan-seared salmon
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Garlic butter steak bites
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Grilled tofu or chickpea patties
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Side Dishes:
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Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
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Garlic rice or lemon orzo
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Honey-glazed carrots
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Roasted cauliflower or green beans
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Pairing your creamed spinach with complementary dishes turns an everyday meal into a delightful dining experience.
Common Questions
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you absolutely can use frozen spinach in this recipe. It’s a great time-saver and works beautifully in creamy dishes like this one. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely first. Then, place it in a clean kitchen towel or fine mesh strainer and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial because excess moisture can make the sauce watery instead of luxuriously creamy. Once well-drained, the spinach can be added directly to the cream sauce just as you would with fresh spinach. You might also want to add a little extra salt or Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor since frozen spinach can be slightly milder in taste.
Q: Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?
Definitely! This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, especially if you’re planning a holiday meal or dinner party. You can prepare the creamed spinach up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it thickens too much after refrigeration, simply add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the texture. In fact, many cooks find that creamed spinach tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Q: How can I make it lighter?
If you’re looking for a lighter version of creamed spinach, there are several simple adjustments you can make without compromising flavor. Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a smoother, less rich sauce. Replace the cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-rich alternative that still gives a creamy consistency. You can also reduce the butter slightly and use olive oil instead for a heart-healthy twist. Despite these changes, the dish will remain flavorful, satisfying, and comforting — perfect for those who want to enjoy the classic taste with a lighter touch.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, this recipe doubles (or even triples) easily, making it perfect for family gatherings or large dinners. Simply multiply all the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Use a wide skillet or saucepan to ensure the spinach cooks evenly and the sauce thickens properly. When scaling up, taste as you go and adjust the seasoning — sometimes a larger batch may need a touch more salt or cheese to balance the flavors.
Creamed Spinach with Garlic and Onion Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Warm, creamy, and full of flavor, this creamed spinach with garlic and onion is the perfect side dish for cozy weeknight dinners or special family meals. Fresh spinach is combined with sautéed onions, garlic, and a rich cream sauce, resulting in a velvety, savory dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or hearty vegetarian mains. This recipe is simple, quick, and guaranteed to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 pound (450 g) fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
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½ cup cream cheese, softened
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the spinach by washing thoroughly, trimming stems if needed, and roughly chopping the leaves. Blanch in boiling water for 1–2 minutes until wilted, then transfer to ice water to stop cooking. Drain and squeeze out excess moisture.
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In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
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Lower heat to medium-low and add heavy cream and cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.
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Add blanched spinach to the skillet, folding gently until fully coated in the sauce. Simmer 2–3 minutes for flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve immediately while warm as a side dish or creamy topping.
Notes
For the best flavor, use fresh spinach and allow onions to soften slowly for natural sweetness. Frozen spinach can be used if thawed and well-drained. Adjust cream or cheese to achieve your preferred sauce consistency. This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be gently reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
