Indulge in culinary heaven: discover the secret to the ultimate steakhouse creamed spinach recipe

Indulge in the luxurious experience of a steakhouse-quality creamed spinach recipe that will elevate your culinary repertoire. This rich and velvety side dish is the perfect accompaniment to any grilled or roasted meat, adding a touch of sophisticated elegance to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spinach: Remove the stems from the spinach and wash it thoroughly. Pat the spinach dry with paper towels or a salad spinner.

2. Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

3. Whisk in the Flour: Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.

4. Gradually Add Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and free of lumps.

5. Season the Sauce: Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the sauce and stir to combine.

6. Add the Spinach: Add the spinach to the saucepan and stir until it is completely wilted and submerged in the sauce.

7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the spinach is tender.

8. Stir in Parmesan: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it is melted and combined.

Tips for the Perfect Steakhouse Creamed Spinach:

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach will give your creamed spinach a vibrant green color and a crisp texture.
• Don’t overcook the spinach: Spinach wilts quickly, so be careful not to overcook it.
• Season to taste: Adjust the seasonings to your preference. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or nutmeg to taste.
• Serve immediately: Creamed spinach is best served hot and fresh.

Variations:

• Add sautéed mushrooms: Sauté 1/2 cup of chopped mushrooms in butter until browned, and add them to the creamed spinach.
• Incorporate crispy bacon: Crumble 4 slices of cooked bacon and sprinkle them on top of the creamed spinach.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the Parmesan cheese and use vegetable broth instead of milk.

Accompanying Dishes:

• Grilled Steak: Creamed spinach is a classic pairing for grilled steak.
• Roasted Chicken: The rich flavors of creamed spinach complement the tender meat of roasted chicken.
• Pork Chops: Serve creamed spinach alongside juicy pork chops for a satisfying meal.

The Health Benefits of Spinach:

• Rich in Nutrients: Spinach is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Boosts Iron Levels: Spinach is an excellent source of iron, which is essential for red blood cell production.
• Supports Eye Health: Spinach contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important for eye health.
• Protects Against Chronic Diseases: The antioxidants in spinach may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

In a nutshell:

Elevate your culinary skills with this decadent steakhouse creamed spinach recipe. Its velvety texture, vibrant color, and rich flavor will impress your guests and make it a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you serve it as a side dish or incorporate it into a more elaborate meal, this creamed spinach is sure to become a beloved favorite.

What You Need to Know

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before using it.

2. How do I store leftover creamed spinach?

Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?

Yes, you can make creamed spinach ahead of time. Prepare it according to the recipe and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it over low heat before serving.