Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite side dishes: steakhouse creamed spinach! This dish is the ultimate companion to a perfectly cooked steak, and it’s no wonder it’s a beloved staple in steakhouses everywhere. The moment you dig in, you’re greeted with this rich, creamy texture that just melts in your mouth. I mean, who can resist that? Not only does it bring a vibrant green to your plate, but the flavor is simply irresistible! The garlic mingles beautifully with the fresh spinach and creamy goodness, making every bite a delightful experience. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked and wondering how you ever enjoyed steak without it! So, let’s get started on making this scrumptious side dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that rich, creamy, and irresistible texture in your creamed spinach. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture! I always find it makes a world of difference. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this rich and creamy side dish! Trust me, it’s super easy and oh-so-rewarding!
Step 1: Wash the Spinach
First things first, let’s make sure our spinach is nice and clean. Rinse the 2 cups of fresh spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit. After that, drain it well, so we don’t end up with watery creamed spinach. You want that creamy goodness to shine!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Grab a large pan and heat it over medium heat. Toss in your minced garlic (that’s 2 cloves!) and sauté for about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling amazing—just be careful not to let it burn!
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
Next, add the washed spinach to the pan. Cook it until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll see that beautiful green color brightening up your pan, and it’s such a joy to watch!
Step 4: Add Cream Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring in the creaminess! Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream and the 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Mix it all together until those creamy ingredients are well combined. It’ll start to look luscious!
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning
To take it over the top, add the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the flavors really come alive, so don’t skimp on the seasoning!
Step 6: Heat Through
Finally, let everything cook together for about 3-4 minutes until the dish is heated through and creamy. Stir occasionally and watch as it transforms into that rich, creamy delight you’re dreaming of. And just like that, you’ve got steakhouse creamed spinach ready to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This steakhouse creamed spinach is not just any side dish; it’s a game changer! Here’s why you’re going to absolutely love making it:
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Rich, creamy flavor: The combination of heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a luscious texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Perfectly complements steak: This dish enhances the flavors of your favorite steak, bringing a delightful balance to your meal.
- Versatile side: It pairs beautifully with other proteins too, like chicken or fish, and adds a gourmet touch to any dinner.
- Vegetarian-friendly: Packed with nutrients, it’s a delicious way to enjoy your greens without sacrificing flavor.
Trust me, once you serve this up, it’ll become a regular in your kitchen!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this rich and creamy steakhouse creamed spinach. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a good source of nutrients, making it a fantastic indulgence for your steak nights!
Tips for Success with Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
To make your steakhouse creamed spinach truly shine, I’ve got a few handy tips to share! First off, always opt for fresh spinach—it really makes a difference in flavor and texture. If you can, buy it just before cooking for that vibrant green goodness. Also, don’t be shy with the seasonings! Adjust the salt and pepper to match your taste; sometimes a little extra sprinkle can elevate the dish to a whole new level.
Another tip? Make sure the cream cheese is softened before you add it to the pan. This will help it blend seamlessly into the heavy cream without any lumps. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick! Lastly, remember that you can always reheat the spinach gently on low heat; just stir it well to maintain that creamy consistency. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations of Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
If you’re looking to shake things up with your steakhouse creamed spinach, you’re in for a treat! There are so many delicious variations to explore that can elevate this classic dish even further. For starters, why not try different cheeses? Swap out the Parmesan for crumbled feta or sharp cheddar for a tangy twist. If you love a bit of spice, add a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to bring some heat to your creamed spinach.
Another fun idea is to incorporate some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture. You could even experiment with herbs! Fresh thyme or dill can add a lovely freshness that complements the creaminess perfectly. And let’s not forget about adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bright finish. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers? No worries! You can store your delicious steakhouse creamed spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it up. This way, you’ll keep all that rich, creamy goodness intact!
When it’s time to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. Stir it frequently to prevent any sticking or scorching at the bottom of the pan. If it seems a bit thick, just splash in a little milk or extra cream to bring back that luscious texture. Trust me, it’s worth the effort to savor every bite of this creamy delight again!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, frozen spinach works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pan to avoid watery creamed spinach.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamed spinach in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving. It’s a great make-ahead option for dinner parties!
How can I make it a little lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use low-fat cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious!
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat your steakhouse creamed spinach is on low heat in a saucepan. Just stir it often and add a splash of milk or cream if it gets too thick to maintain that creamy texture.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Of course! Feel free to mix in sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of bacon for added flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your taste!
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach: 5 Irresistible Secrets Uncovered
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy side dish perfect for steak lovers.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and drain the spinach.
- In a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese.
- Add Parmesan cheese and nutmeg.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook until creamy and heated through.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: steakhouse, creamed spinach, rich, creamy, irresistible
