Creamed Spinach Bake is a delightful and creamy dish that will elevate any meal. With its rich flavors and cheesy crust, this recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting side dish on any occasion. Whether you choose fresh or frozen spinach, the combination of ingredients creates a luscious texture that everyone will love. The addition of crispy Turkey Bacon adds a unique crunch, making this Creamed Spinach Bake truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of creamy cheeses and garlic creates an indulgent taste that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal effort, you can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Side: Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or casual family meals.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and cheesy topping are sure to impress guests of all ages.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing the Creamed Spinach Bake requires only a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Baking Dish
• Measuring Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking of the garlic and helps in creating a rich base for your sauce.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your flour integrates smoothly with the butter, preventing lumps in your sauce.
• Baking Dish: An oven-safe baking dish is crucial for achieving that beautifully browned cheese topping.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Cream Sauce

• 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 to prepare it for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Sauce

1. Melt butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in flour to create a smooth paste.

Step 3: Add Dairy Ingredients

1. Lower heat to medium-low.
2. Gradually add heavy cream and half & half while stirring continuously until it begins to thicken.

Step 4: Combine Cheese

1. Mix in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
2. Adjust thickness by adding more cream if necessary.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

1. Add spinach leaves in batches, stirring until they begin to wilt into the sauce.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

1. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top of the mixture.
2. Optionally add Longhorn seasoning blend if desired.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown on top. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with crispy diced Turkey Bacon before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Creamed Spinach Bake!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with various main courses. Its rich, creamy texture and cheesy topping make it an impressive addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Turkey or Chicken: This dish complements roasted turkey or chicken beautifully, adding a creamy contrast to the savory flavors.
• Beef Roast: Pairing with a juicy beef roast creates a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.

With Grilled or Roasted Vegetables

• Grilled Zucchini: The lightness of grilled zucchini contrasts nicely with the richness of the creamed spinach.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a touch of sweetness that enhances the overall meal.

On a Cozy Dinner Table

• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to scoop up the creamy goodness and enjoy every bite.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes alongside this dish make for a comforting combination.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Bake

To ensure your Creamed Spinach Bake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly sauté garlic: Cooking garlic until fragrant adds depth of flavor. Be careful not to burn it.
• Boldly adjust consistency: If the mixture becomes too thick, add more half & half or cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Boldly layer the cheese: For an extra cheesy topping, ensure you evenly distribute the Parmesan cheese before baking.
• Boldly use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach provides better texture and flavor than frozen. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it well.
• Boldly check doneness: Keep an eye on the oven during baking. Remove it once the cheese is golden brown for the best result.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider for your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a perfect match with creamed spinach.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts add a crunchy element that complements the softness of the bake.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a simple yet flavorful accompaniment.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of creamed spinach.
5. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy cauliflower gratin can enhance the cheesy experience while adding variety to your plate.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies bring vibrancy and heartiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamed Spinach Bake, avoiding common pitfalls can significantly enhance your dish’s quality.

• Overcooking the spinach: Spinach cooks quickly. Avoid overcooking by adding it in batches and stirring just until wilted.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream or half & half can cause a lumpy texture. Always let them reach room temperature before use.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is key for flavor. Don’t skip the optional seasoning blend; it elevates the dish.
• Not letting it cool before serving: Serving immediately can lead to messy portions. Allow it to cool slightly for better serving consistency.
• Using low-quality cheese: The cheese quality affects taste and texture. Use fresh, high-quality Parmesan for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Bake

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Best used within 2-3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Bake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between until warmed to your liking.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Creamed Spinach Bake.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the mixture.

How do I customize my Creamed Spinach Bake?

You can add different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for variety. Consider adding herbs like thyme or nutmeg for an additional flavor boost.

What is the best way to serve Creamed Spinach Bake?

This dish pairs excellently with roasted meats or as part of a holiday spread. Serve it warm for maximum enjoyment.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to baking; store it in the fridge overnight and bake just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Spinach Bake is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from holiday gatherings to weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonings or cheeses, making it uniquely yours. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Print

Creamed Spinach Bake

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover a delightful Creamed Spinach Bake that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy Turkey Bacon. Try this easy recipe today!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons 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)
• 5 strips crispy turkey bacon (for topping)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in the flour to create a smooth paste.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream and half & half while stirring continuously until thickened.
4. Mix in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
5. Add spinach in batches, stirring until wilted.
6. Top with remaining Parmesan cheese and optional seasoning blend.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is golden brown, then sprinkle with crispy turkey bacon before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor; if using frozen, ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained. Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs like thyme or nutmeg for extra flavor.