Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach: Cozy Comfort on a Plate
There’s something simply magical about creamed spinach. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening, pulling you back to fond memories of family dinners and special occasions. Growing up, I often remember visiting a steakhouse with my family, where the star on the table wasn’t just the perfectly cooked steak but also the rich, creamy spinach that stole the show. I can still recall the first spoonful — the silky texture, the fragrant garlic dancing in the background, and a hint of warmth from the cayenne pepper. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful version of this classic dish that will surely become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re planning an easy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, this creamed spinach recipe is pure comfort that you’ll want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Goodness: The combination of heavy cream and gooey Parmesan cheese creates a rich, mouthwatering experience that’s simply irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy weeknight schedule.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will find it hard to say no to this comforting dish, making it a crowd-pleaser at family dinners.
- Versatile Delight: Whether paired with steak, roasted chicken, or even vegetarian mains, this creamed spinach complements any meal beautifully.
- Freezer-Friendly: Using frozen spinach means you can always have ingredients on hand for a last-minute side dish or cozy night in.
What You’ll Need
To make this delightful Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 1 package frozen spinach (or equivalent fresh spinach)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Let’s Make It Together
Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy delight:
-
If using fresh spinach, wash and chop it. If using frozen, thaw and drain the spinach to remove excess moisture.
-
In a sturdy pan, melt the butter over medium heat, letting its nutty aroma take over your kitchen. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes — be careful not to let it brown too much.
-
Sprinkle in the flour, stirring to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the mixture to bubble nicely.
-
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream. Stir vigorously until it’s smooth and devoid of lumps. Continue to cook, watching as it transforms into a luscious, thickened sauce.
-
Stir in the cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper — this is where you can adjust the spice level to your preference. Then, fold in the spinach and mix well, ensuring every bit is coated in the creamy goodness.
-
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and cook until melted and beautifully combined.
-
Serve hot in your favorite dish, where it will be the star of the table!
Delicious Variations to Try
Feeling a bit adventurous? Here are a few fun ways to customize your creamed spinach:
- Mushroom Magic: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: For a zesty twist, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Nutty Addition: Stir in toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy spinach.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives mixed in at the end can elevate your dish, adding brightness and freshness.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Options: You can prepare the creamed spinach a day in advance. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use alternative cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella if you want to experiment with different flavors.
- Perfectly Smooth: For an extra smooth texture, you can blend the spinach mixture with an immersion blender before serving.
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently to savor again.
Nutrition Information per Serving
Serving size: about 1/2 cup
- Calories: 250
- Carbs: 9g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prepare it the day before and simply reheat before serving.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with different cheeses or add-ins like mushrooms or nuts.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
How long does it last?
This creamed spinach is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored and reheated without losing too much flavor.
Wrapping It Up
This Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach recipe isn’t just a side; it’s a comforting escape to memories shared with family, echoing laughter around the table, and the love that fills our homes. I hope it brings warmth to your kitchen just as it has to mine. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your cozy meal ideas board so it’s ready when you need a comforting dish that feels like home!
Ruth's Chris Creamed Spinach
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package frozen spinach or equivalent fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- If using fresh spinach, wash and chop it. If using frozen, thaw and drain the spinach to remove excess moisture.
Cooking
- In a sturdy pan, melt the butter over medium heat, letting its nutty aroma take over your kitchen. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes — be careful not to let it brown too much.
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the mixture to bubble nicely.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream. Stir vigorously until it’s smooth and devoid of lumps. Continue to cook, watching as it transforms into a luscious, thickened sauce.
- Stir in the cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper — this is where you can adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Fold in the spinach and mix well, ensuring every bit is coated in the creamy goodness.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and cook until melted and beautifully combined.
- Serve hot in your favorite dish, where it will be the star of the table!
