Name: Cheesy Creamed Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces spinach (fresh or frozen); 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Looking for a side dish that steals the spotlight? This Cheesy Creamed Spinach Recipe is here to elevate any dinner table. Rich, creamy, and bubbling with golden cheese on top, it turns humble spinach into something utterly irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight meal, it brings that wow-factor in every spoonful.

The smooth cream sauce combined with tender spinach and gooey melted cheese makes this dish one of the most comforting sides you can whip up. Even spinach skeptics won’t be able to resist going back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Creamed Spinach Recipe

Decadent and flavorful: Each bite is silky, cheesy, and loaded with rich flavor.
Quick and easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for holidays or weeknights: Fancy enough for guests, simple enough for a Tuesday.
Make-ahead friendly: Preps well in advance and reheats like a dream.
Customizable: Use different cheeses or add herbs to suit your taste.

What Type of Spinach Works Best?

You can use fresh or frozen spinach—both work beautifully. Fresh spinach delivers brighter flavor and color, while frozen spinach is ultra-convenient and just as tasty once well-drained. If using frozen, be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a watery sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Creamed Spinach Recipe

This creamy side dish uses everyday ingredients that work together to create maximum indulgence.

Spinach – The heart of the recipe. Choose fresh for vibrant texture or frozen for convenience.
Butter – Adds richness and is the base for the creamy sauce.
Garlic – Brings a savory, aromatic kick that enhances the spinach.
Cream cheese – Makes the sauce ultra smooth and tangy.
Heavy cream – Gives the dish its luscious, velvety consistency.
Parmesan cheese – Adds nutty depth and sharp flavor.
Mozzarella cheese – Provides that melty, golden-brown top everyone craves.
Salt and pepper – Basic seasoning to round out the flavors.

How To Make the Cheesy Creamed Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 2: Add the Spinach

Stir in the spinach (if using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained). Cook until warmed through and any excess liquid is mostly evaporated.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated. Pour in the heavy cream, and let it simmer gently until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is creamy and well blended.

Step 5: Top and Broil

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Broil for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately as a side dish or dip. It pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to crusty bread.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Creamed Spinach

This rich and gooey side dish feeds about 4 to 6 people, depending on how generous your portions are.

To serve: Serve it piping hot straight from the oven as a side for your favorite mains. It’s also amazing as a dip with toasted baguette slices or crackers.

To store: Let any leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat: Warm it in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave gently in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

To freeze: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before broiling. Thaw overnight, then bake and broil before serving.

What to Serve With Cheesy Creamed Spinach?

Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken

A juicy roast chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of spinach.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Tender, seared steak bites balance out the creaminess with their meaty depth.

Oven-Roasted Salmon

A light protein like salmon adds a fresh contrast.

Baked Potatoes

Load them up with creamed spinach for an ultra-indulgent twist.

Grilled Lamb Chops

The herby, savory flavor of lamb plays well with the cheesy spinach.

Cauliflower Mash

For a low-carb meal, this creamy mash is the perfect pairing.

Toasted French Baguette

Use the bread to scoop every last bit from your plate.

Crispy Pork Chops

Pan-fried or baked, these add texture and flavor alongside the spinach.

Want More Creamy Side Dish Ideas?

If this Cheesy Creamed Spinach made your plate extra cozy, try these creamy favorites too:

Scalloped Potatoes with Creamy Cheese Sauce – Rich, layered, and perfect for gatherings.
Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese – The classic we all love, turned up a notch.
Cheesy Zucchini Bake – A great way to sneak in extra veggies.
Broccoli and Cheese Soup in a Slow Cooker – Cozy and creamy comfort in a bowl.
Sweet Potato Casserole – A Comforting Classic – The perfect balance of sweet and savory.

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Tried it? Let me know what cheese combos you used—or if you added a little kick of spice. I love seeing your creations and swaps!

Explore more indulgent sides and healthy comfort recipes over on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest!

Cheesy Creamed Spinach Recipe

Author: Nora
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Craving a creamy, cheesy side that turns ordinary spinach into something spectacular? This Cheesy Creamed Spinach is your perfect answer. It’s bubbling with mozzarella, laced with garlic, and thickened with cream cheese for ultra-luxury flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday table or looking for a fast weeknight dinner idea, this easy recipe delivers big comfort with minimal effort.

It’s ideal for anyone needing quick side dish ideas, easy recipes with vegetables, or rich food ideas for dinner parties. Best of all, even the pickiest eaters won’t say no to this cheesy masterpiece.