Steakhouse Creamed Spinach (Small Batch)
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the rich, creamy delight of Steakhouse Creamed Spinach with this small batch recipe. Perfectly cooked spinach is combined with a luscious béchamel sauce and topped with a hint of nutmeg, making it an irresistible side dish for any steak dinner or holiday feast. Elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests with this classic steakhouse favorite that’s easy to prepare at home.
This small batch of Steakhouse Creamed Spinach brings the amazing flavors of a classic steakhouse right to your home.
A Classic Side Dish for Any Occasion
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach is not just a side dish; it's a culinary experience that elevates any meal. This rich and velvety dish pairs wonderfully with grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or even hearty fish. Its creamy texture and rich flavor provide the perfect contrast to juicy meats, making it a go-to choice for those special dinners or holiday gatherings.
This recipe is perfect for those who want to impress guests without dedicating hours in the kitchen. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, you can whip up this delightful side dish in no time. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, creamed spinach adds a touch of elegance and sophistication that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is often considered a superfood due to its impressive nutritional profile. Not only is it packed with vitamins A, C, and K, but it also contains essential minerals like iron and calcium. Incorporating spinach into your diet can help boost your immune system, improve bone health, and promote healthy skin and hair.
In this creamed spinach recipe, you can enjoy all these health benefits while indulging in a luscious creamy dish. By blending fresh spinach with a béchamel sauce, you create a delightful balance of flavors and textures, allowing you to enjoy the goodness of green vegetables in a way that feels utterly indulgent. This makes it an excellent addition to any wholesome meal.
Tips for Perfecting Your Creamed Spinach
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your creamed spinach, always start with fresh spinach. Look for vibrant green leaves with no signs of wilting. If fresh spinach isn't available, you can substitute it with thawed frozen spinach, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
When making the béchamel sauce, stirring constantly is key to preventing lumps. Gradually whisk in the milk after cooking the flour and butter; this ensures a smooth, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the spinach. For added depth of flavor, feel free to incorporate minced garlic or onion when cooking the butter, tailoring the dish to your taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Spinach
In a large pot, bring a small amount of water to a boil. Add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Drain and set aside.
Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Combine and Season
Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked spinach and Parmesan cheese to the béchamel sauce, mixing well until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach shines when paired with a variety of main dishes. Try serving it alongside a perfectly cooked rib-eye steak, where the creamy spinach complements the rich flavors of the meat. Alternatively, it goes well with grilled chicken or pork chops for a delicious family meal.
For a vegetarian twist, consider pairing the creamed spinach with a savory quiche or a hearty grain bowl. The creamy texture and bold flavor create a delightful contrast with the more rustic elements of these dishes. Add toast or homemade bread on the side to scoop up any remaining creamy sauce!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, storing your creamed spinach is easy. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate; it will keep well for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much, ensuring the dish remains creamy and delicious.
While you can freeze creamed spinach, be aware that the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and stir well to restore its creamy consistency.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize your creamed spinach to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or incorporate sautéed mushrooms for added depth. Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley can also enhance the flavor profile and add a pop of color.
For a unique twist, try incorporating cheeses other than Parmesan, such as feta or goat cheese, for a different flavor dimension. You can also make a low-carb version by substituting heavy cream for the milk, creating a richer sauce that still delivers on flavor while fitting dietary needs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw and drain it well before adding to the sauce.
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach (Small Batch)
Experience the rich, creamy delight of Steakhouse Creamed Spinach with this small batch recipe. Perfectly cooked spinach is combined with a luscious béchamel sauce and topped with a hint of nutmeg, making it an irresistible side dish for any steak dinner or holiday feast. Elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests with this classic steakhouse favorite that’s easy to prepare at home.
Created by: Harper Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring a small amount of water to a boil. Add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked spinach and Parmesan cheese to the béchamel sauce, mixing well until heated through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 15g