This Garlic Creamed Spinach recipe shines with simplicity and flavor, making it a standout side dish for everyday cooking.
What makes it truly special is its perfect balance of creamy richness and wholesome nutrition—all achieved in just 15 minutes with only a handful of ingredients.
15-Minute Garlic Creamed Spinach
Equipment
- 1 Nonstick skillet
- 1 Garlic Press
- 1 Silicone Spatula
- 1 Set of Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 1 Colander or Salad Spinner
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
- 3 cloves fresh garlic finely minced
- 12 ounces 350 g baby spinach, thoroughly rinsed and drained
- 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 3 dashes ground black pepper adjust as needed
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic in Butter: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once heated, add the butter and let it melt completely, swirling it gently around the pan. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant and lightly golden—be careful not to let it brown.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add the baby spinach to the skillet in batches if needed. Toss and stir continuously for 2–3 minutes, allowing the heat to gently wilt the leaves. They will reduce significantly in volume as they cook.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream and water, then season with salt and ground black pepper. Stir well to ensure the spinach is coated evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Simmer to Finish: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture gently simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The spinach should become tender and well-soaked in the cream without losing its vibrant green color.
- Serve Immediately: Once the cream thickens slightly and the spinach is soft but not mushy, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the creamed spinach hot as a comforting side to meats, grains, or vegetarian mains.
Notes
- Spinach Substitutes: If baby spinach isn’t available, you can use regular spinach. Just be sure to remove any tough stems and chop the leaves roughly before cooking.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream, though it may be less rich.
- Don’t Overcook: To maintain a bright color and fresh flavor, avoid simmering too long. Overcooked spinach can turn dark and lose its appeal.
- Add-ons: For extra flavor, stir in a pinch of grated nutmeg or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Meal Pairing Tip: This side dish pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken, seared salmon, or roasted mushrooms.
Spinach, the star of the dish, is a powerhouse of plant-based nutrients. It’s low in carbohydrates, high in dietary fiber, and packed with iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
The addition of heavy cream and butter introduces satisfying good fats that keep you full longer, while garlic enhances both flavor and immunity.
Despite its indulgent taste, this dish remains keto-friendly and low in carbs, ideal for those managing blood sugar or following a low-carb lifestyle.
Its quick prep and cook time make it perfect for weeknight meals or elegant enough for holiday dinners.
Whether you serve it alongside grilled proteins or as a creamy base for a vegetarian bowl, this recipe brings comfort and nutrition to the table with minimal effort.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Nonstick Skillet
A quality nonstick skillet ensures even cooking and prevents delicate spinach leaves from sticking or burning. It’s ideal for sautéing and simmering, making it a kitchen essential for stir-fries, sauces, and egg-based dishes.
Garlic Press
This tool quickly crushes garlic cloves into a fine mince, extracting maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s especially handy for recipes like this one, where aromatic garlic is a key component.
Heat-Resistant Silicone Spatula
Perfect for stirring and folding spinach without bruising or tearing it. A silicone spatula also withstands high heat and ensures you scrape every bit of creamy sauce from the pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons Set
Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in a simple dish. This set ensures consistency and precision in everything from liquid cream to seasonings.
Colander or Salad Spinner
To clean the spinach thoroughly before cooking, a colander or spinner helps remove excess water, preventing soggy results. It’s a must for washing greens, herbs, and vegetables efficiently.
Chef’s Secrets for Creamy Perfection
Achieving the perfect creamy texture in this garlic creamed spinach starts with balancing heat and timing.
Melt your butter gently over medium heat to avoid burning the garlic, which can quickly turn bitter.
Use fresh, finely minced garlic to release maximum aroma without overpowering the dish.
When adding the spinach, it’s best to do it in batches if needed—this ensures even wilting without overcrowding the pan.
The simmering step is crucial: keeping the heat low allows the cream to gently thicken and infuse the spinach without causing separation or curdling.
For an ultra-smooth finish, avoid stirring too aggressively. A light touch helps maintain the spinach’s vibrant color and natural texture.
Lastly, using heavy cream rather than milk or low-fat alternatives guarantees that luscious richness that makes this dish so comforting.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Meals
Garlic creamed spinach is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of mains.
It’s a classic accompaniment to grilled or roasted meats such as steak, chicken, or pork, offering a creamy contrast to charred flavors.
For a pescatarian meal, try it alongside pan-seared salmon or baked white fish. You can also use it as a luscious base for a vegetarian grain bowl with quinoa or roasted vegetables.
For a special occasion, spoon it over baked potatoes or serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a double dose of comfort.
Garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or freshly grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Storage Tips to Keep Fresh Flavor
To store leftover creamed spinach, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days, as spinach can spoil quickly when exposed to air. When reheating, do so gently on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.
Adding a splash of cream or milk while reheating can help restore its original creamy consistency.
Avoid freezing creamed spinach, as the texture often suffers due to the high moisture content and cream, becoming watery upon thawing.
Instead, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation for optimal taste and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered Simply
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before cooking to avoid a watery dish. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
2. Is there a dairy-free way to make this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil and use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream to maintain creaminess while keeping it dairy-free.
3. How do I make the spinach less bitter?
Removing the tough stems and sautéing the garlic first helps reduce bitterness. Also, don’t overcook the spinach; a quick wilt and gentle simmer preserve sweetness.
4. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
It’s best served fresh but can be prepped a few hours ahead. Reheat gently on low heat just before serving to maintain texture.
5. What can I add to boost flavor?
Try stirring in freshly grated nutmeg, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth and brightness.
