Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a delightful side dish that brings a rich and creamy texture to your holiday table. Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse, this recipe combines fresh or frozen spinach with a luscious cheesy sauce, making it perfect for family gatherings or festive dinners. The crispy Turkey Bacon on top adds a savory crunch that elevates the entire dish, ensuring it’s a favorite at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan cheese creates an irresistible taste that will impress your guests.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays or everyday meals, this Creamed Spinach Bake complements various main courses.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and cheesy top, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Greens: Packed with spinach, you offer a nutritious option alongside your favorite dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamed Spinach Bake effectively, having the right tools is essential. Below are the tools you’ll need to prepare this delicious recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: An oven-safe skillet allows you to cook and bake in one pan, saving time on cleanup.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring there are no lumps in your creamy sauce.

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Ingredients

For the Creamed Spinach Bake

• 3 tablespoon butter
• 1/8 cup flour
• 1 heaping tablespoon freshly minced garlic
• 1.5 cups half & half
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups parmesan cheese (divided)
• 16 ounces fresh spinach leaves (or 1 box frozen leaf spinach, not chopped)
• 5 strips crispy Turkey Bacon for topping
• optional; 2 teaspoons seasoning blend (recipe in notes)

How to Make Creamed Spinach Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the oven is hot enough for baking once you’re ready.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Cook Garlic

In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat:
* Melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
* Add in 1 heaping tablespoon of minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base Sauce

Lower heat to medium-low:
* Stir in 1/8 cup of flour, mixing until it forms a paste.
* Gradually add 1.5 cups of half & half and 3/4 cup of heavy cream, stirring until the mixture starts to thicken.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Add in 1 cup of parmesan cheese, stirring until fully combined:
* If the mixture is too thick, add a little more cream or half & half as needed.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

In batches, add in:
* 16 ounces of fresh spinach leaves (or one box of frozen leaf spinach).
Stir until the spinach begins to wilt down.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Seasoning

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of parmesan cheese on top.
Optionally, add your choice of seasoning blend for extra flavor.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place the skillet in the preheated oven:
Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.
Once out of the oven, top with diced crispy Turkey Bacon for an added crunch.

Enjoy this rich and creamy side dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various meals. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it an ideal side for both casual dinners and festive gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair it with Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken breast complements the creaminess of the spinach bake, adding a satisfying protein element to your meal.

Serve with Beef Tenderloin

• A perfectly cooked beef tenderloin creates a delightful contrast with the cheesy spinach, making for an elegant dinner option.

Enjoy alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables enhance the dish’s flavors while providing a nutritious balance to your plate.

Accompany it with Quinoa Salad

• A light quinoa salad adds freshness and texture, making it a great contrast to the richness of the creamed spinach bake.

Use as a Dip for Breadsticks

• Serve this bake as a warm dip with crispy breadsticks or pita chips for an enjoyable appetizer at parties.

Top Your Favorite Pasta Dishes

• Spoon some creamed spinach over pasta dishes for an extra layer of flavor that turns a simple meal into something special.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Bake

To ensure your Creamed Spinach Bake turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose fresh spinach: Fresh spinach provides a vibrant flavor and better texture than frozen. If using frozen, make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained.

• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a thicker consistency, add more cheese or reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly.

• Experiment with seasonings: Enhance the taste by adding different herbs or spices like nutmeg or crushed red pepper flakes for added warmth.

• Use quality cheese: Opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese over pre-packaged versions for richer flavor and better melting properties.

• Don’t skip browning the cheese: Achieving a golden top adds texture and visual appeal to your dish, so bake until the cheese is bubbly and browned.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps set up the flavors and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair beautifully with your main course.

2. Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs: Flavorful chicken thighs add protein while complementing the rich flavors of the creamed spinach.

3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the spinach bake.

4. Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf seasoned with lemon zest enhances freshness on your plate while balancing richness.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and vegetables create an attractive presentation alongside your main dish.

6. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add elegance and vibrant color, making them an ideal side for any holiday table.

7. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing counterpoint to creamy dishes.

8. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges offer natural sweetness that contrasts well with savory flavors in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamed Spinach Bake, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Garlic: Garlic adds a depth of flavor. Always include it for a well-rounded taste.
• Overcooking the Spinach: Overcooked spinach can become mushy. Stir in the spinach just until it wilts.
• Neglecting to Season: Without seasoning, your dish can taste bland. Use salt and pepper or a seasoning blend for enhanced flavor.
• Not Using Enough Cheese: Cheese is key for creaminess. Don’t skimp on the parmesan for that deliciously cheesy top.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold cream and half & half can affect thickness. Let them come to room temperature before mixing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamed Spinach Bake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Bake

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container for best results, and it will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Bake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamed Spinach Bake.

Can I use frozen spinach for Creamed Spinach Bake?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just ensure you thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the mixture.

How do I make my Creamed Spinach Bake dairy-free?

You can substitute half & half and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk.

What can I serve with Creamed Spinach Bake?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it perfect for holiday dinners or special occasions.

How long does Creamed Spinach Bake last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Creamed Spinach Bake is a delightful side dish that brings creamy goodness and rich flavors to any meal. Its versatility allows for easy customization—consider adding different cheeses or spices to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate; try making this delicious recipe today!