Easy Creamed Spinach (From Frozen)

Easy creamed spinach in a black bowl on a wooden board with a metal spoon next to it.

4 from 4 votes

This quick and easy creamed spinach is my favorite way to transform frozen spinach into a delectable side dish. Whether it's for a speedy weeknight meal or an elegant holiday feast, this dish will convert even the pickiest eaters into spinach fans!

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegetarian

Servings:

Calories: 182kcal

Author: Dr. Sonali Ruder

Equipment

large skillet

Ingredients

10 ounce package frozen, chopped spinach
1 ½ tablespoons butter
¼ cup finely chopped shallot or onion
1 clove garlic
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup half and half
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
⅛ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Defrost the spinach in the microwave. When cool enough to handle, squeeze out all of the water. Set aside.
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the flour and stir to combine. Cook for a minute without letting it get too brown.
Add the half and half, nutmeg, cayenne, and parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth. Simmer the white sauce 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Stir in the defrosted frozen spinach. Season the dish with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

Notes

Be sure to squeeze out all of the water from the spinach after you defrost it. This will prevent the creamed spinach from getting runny.
I make this creamed spinach with half and half, which is a mixture of milk and cream. You lighten it up even more, you can use 2% or whole milk.
I like to use frozen chopped spinach because it's so convenient. You can use fresh baby spinach but I would recommend cooking it first and squeezing out the excess liquid before putting it into the creamy sauce.
Sometimes I top this creamed spinach with buttered breadcrumbs and pop it in the oven to make a delicious creamed spinach gratin.
To make this creamed spinach keto, leave out the flour and use heavy cream instead of half and half.

Nutrition