This rich, velvety, restaurant-style creamed spinach is filled with melty cheese, tender spinach, and warm aromatics. It’s the perfect side dish for holiday feasts, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want something comforting and luxurious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesy creamed spinach is indulgent yet simple to prepare. The combination of heavy cream, provolone, and Parmesan creates a silky texture, while onion and garlic add depth and warmth. The spinach cooks down beautifully, absorbing every bit of flavorful creaminess. It’s a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, poultry, or seafood.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 ounces provolone cheese, sliced or cut into small pieces
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
Place the spinach in a large pot over medium heat and allow it to wilt, stirring occasionally. Once fully wilted, transfer it to a colander and press out as much excess moisture as possible. Set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced onion and cook until tender and translucent. Add the garlic and cook an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the drained spinach to the skillet and stir to combine with the aromatics.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes to slightly thicken.
Add the provolone and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes, then remove from heat and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Use half cream and half whole milk for a slightly lighter version.
Add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warm flavor.
Replace provolone with mozzarella for a milder, stretchy texture.
Add sautéed mushrooms for additional depth and earthiness.
Mix in a handful of chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for brightness.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess. It may also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
FAQs
How do I keep the creamed spinach from becoming watery?
Pressing excess liquid out of the wilted spinach is the key to preventing a watery texture.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, use about 20 ounces of frozen spinach and make sure it is fully thawed and drained very well before cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to one day in advance and reheat gently before serving.
What cheese works best for creamed spinach?
Provolone and Parmesan melt well and offer great flavor, but mozzarella or mild cheddar can be substituted.
Can I make this dish lighter?
You can replace part of the heavy cream with milk or use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter texture.
Does the spinach need to be chopped?
Chopping is optional, but roughly chopping the leaves helps create a smoother, more uniform dish.
Can I add spices to this recipe?
Yes, nutmeg, paprika, or white pepper work well with creamy spinach dishes.
How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Keep the heat at medium or below and avoid rapid boiling after adding the cream.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the recipe doubles easily—just use a large enough pot and skillet.
What can I serve with cheesy creamed spinach?
It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked fish, or vegetarian mains like baked potatoes or rice dishes.
Conclusion
This cheesy creamed spinach brings rich, velvety comfort to any meal, transforming simple ingredients into a decadent side dish. Whether served for a special occasion or an everyday dinner, it’s a flavorful, satisfying recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
A rich and creamy creamed spinach side dish made with provolone, Parmesan, heavy cream, and tender spinach. A comforting, cheesy, and flavorful addition to any meal.
