Creamed Spinach Bake

Name: Creamed Spinach Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter; 1/8 cup flour; 1 heaping tablespoon freshly minced garlic; 1.5 cups half-and-half; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese (divided); 16 ounces fresh spinach leaves (or 1 box frozen leaf spinach, not chopped); 5 strips crispy turkey bacon (for topping)

Published: January 14, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time.
Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy textures and savory cheese creates an irresistible taste.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holiday meals or as a comforting weeknight side, it pairs well with various main dishes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavors and appealing presentation make it a favorite among friends and family.
Healthy Greens: Packed with spinach, this dish adds nutritious greens to your meal without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet: Ideal for both stovetop cooking and baking, providing even heat distribution.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for optimal results.
Cutting board: A stable surface that makes chopping vegetables safe and easy.
Chef’s knife: Essential for efficiently mincing garlic and handling other ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Cream Sauce Base

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)

For the Spinach

16 ounces fresh spinach leaves (or 1 box frozen leaf spinach, not chopped)

For Topping

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 step ensures that the Creamed Spinach Bake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Create the Cream Sauce

In your cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in the flour to create a paste, ensuring it blends well with the butter.

Step 3: Add Dairy Ingredients

Lower the heat to medium-low.
Gradually add in the heavy cream and half & half while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Mix in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese until fully combined.
If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add more cream or half & half as needed.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Begin adding spinach leaves in batches.
Stir continuously until they start to wilt down into the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top of your creamed spinach mixture.
Optionally, sprinkle on any seasoning blend you choose.

Step 7: Bake

Place your skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese has turned golden brown on top.

Step 8: Finish with Turkey Bacon

Once removed from the oven, immediately top your Creamed Spinach Bake with crispy diced Turkey Bacon for added flavor and crunch.

This Creamed Spinach Bake is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that will elevate any meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Whether as a side for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, serving it right makes all the difference.

With Grilled Chicken

Serve alongside juicy grilled chicken for a delicious contrast of flavors. The creamy texture of the spinach complements the savory chicken perfectly.

As Part of a Buffet

Add this dish to your buffet spread. Its rich and cheesy profile will attract guests, making it a standout item on any table.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

Serve with roasted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. Their natural sweetness balances the richness of the creamed spinach.

With Rice Pilaf

Offer a side of rice pilaf to soak up the creamy goodness. The fluffy rice creates a satisfying meal when combined with the spinach bake.

Topped on Toast

For a fun twist, spoon creamed spinach onto toasted bread for an appetizer. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a snack.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Bake

Creating the perfect Creamed Spinach Bake is easy with these simple tips. Follow them to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach yields better flavor and texture than frozen. If using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained well.
Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add more half & half or heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency for the bake.
Don’t Skip the Cheese: Using high-quality parmesan enhances flavor immensely. Consider grating it fresh for an even richer taste.
Crisp Turkey Bacon: Make sure to cook turkey bacon until crispy before adding it on top for added texture in each bite.
Experiment with Seasonings: Use different seasoning blends to personalize your dish. Try garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its rich flavor. Here are some great options to consider.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that enhances every bite of spinach.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness and caramelization from roasting sweet potatoes add a lovely balance to the savory bake.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh vegetables offers a healthy contrast to the richness of creamed spinach.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds a crunchy texture and bright flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The nuttiness of crispy Brussels sprouts complements the creaminess, creating an appealing combination on your plate.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up extra cheese sauce from the bake while adding warmth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is not measuring ingredients accurately. Always measure your ingredients to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures in your Creamed Spinach Bake.
Another error is overcooking the spinach. Cook the spinach just until it wilts to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
Skipping the cheese topping can lead to a less flavorful bake. Be sure to use plenty of Parmesan on top for a delicious, crusty finish.
Using low-fat dairy instead of full-fat options can change the texture. Opt for heavy cream and half & half for that rich, creamy consistency you desire in your Creamed Spinach Bake.
A frequent oversight is not preheating the oven. Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees before baking for even cooking and browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Bake

Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Bake

Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring consistently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Creamed Spinach Bake?

Creamed Spinach Bake is a rich and creamy dish made with fresh spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, often baked until bubbly and golden.

Can I use frozen spinach in this Creamed Spinach Bake?

Yes! You can use frozen leaf spinach as a convenient alternative. Just ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding it to your mixture.

How do I customize my Creamed Spinach Bake?

Feel free to add spices or herbs like nutmeg or crushed red pepper for extra flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar if desired.

How long does it take to prepare Creamed Spinach Bake?

The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for quick holiday side dishes!

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Spinach Bake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or a casual gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize it with different cheeses or seasonings to suit your taste!

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