Craving that creamy, decadent creamed spinach you remember from Boston Market? Forget takeout – this recipe lets you recreate that restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen! It’s easier than you think, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. This copycat Boston Market creamed spinach is surprisingly quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or as a delightful side dish for a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by thawing your frozen spinach. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator or by microwaving it according to package directions. Once thawed, squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial for preventing a watery creamed spinach.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and whisk constantly for about 1 minute. This helps to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.
Incorporate the Spinach:
- Add the squeezed spinach to the creamy sauce. Stir gently to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spinach to heat through and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Season and Serve:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite protein and roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Creamed Spinach:
- Don't skip squeezing the spinach: This is essential for achieving a creamy texture. The extra moisture from the spinach will thin out your sauce.
- Use fresh nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg offers a far superior flavor than pre-ground.
- Adjust the cream: For a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream and add more milk.
- Add some zest: A pinch of lemon zest brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
- Make it ahead: This creamed spinach can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.
Variations:
- Add some cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Boost the greens: Incorporate a handful of chopped fresh spinach along with the thawed frozen spinach for extra nutrients and freshness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic side dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this creamed spinach is sure to become a family favorite. Its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks, adding this delicious dish to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!