Three Ingredient Creamed Spinach

Looking for a delicious and effortless side dish to elevate your dinner table? Say hello to this three ingredient creamed spinach recipe! Wonderfully creamy, packed with flavors, and ready in a matter of minutes, this simple dish brings together tender spinach, low-fat cream cheese, and Parmesan for a delightful culinary experience.

Looking for more side dishes?

Try my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, Parker House Rolls, and Green Bean Casserole Mac n' Cheese.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Effortless: This recipe requires only three ingredients and can be prepared in a matter of minutes using the microwave. It's perfect for busy days when you want a tasty side dish without spending much time in the kitchen.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of tender spinach, low-fat cream cheese, and grated Parmesan creates a luscious and indulgent creamed spinach with a burst of delicious flavors. It's a satisfying accompaniment to any meal.
• Versatile and Customizable: While the recipe is delightful as is, it also provides room for creativity. You can add your favorite seasonings or experiment with different cheese options to tailor the dish to your taste preferences, making it a versatile choice for various palates.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card for three ingredient creamed spinach. 

• Frozen chopped spinach - The main ingredient, providing a nutritious and flavorful base for the creamed spinach. You can also use fresh spinach, but ensure to blanch and chop it before proceeding with the recipe.
• Low-fat cream cheese (neufchatel) - Adds creaminess and richness to the dish while keeping it lighter and healthier. If preferred, you can use regular cream cheese for a more indulgent version.
• Grated Parmesan cheese - Infuses the creamed spinach with a delightful nutty and savory taste. For variations, experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Gouda.
• Salt and pepper - Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the dish. Feel free to incorporate additional herbs and spices like garlic powder or nutmeg for added depth.

Equipment Needed

• Microwave - To defrost and heat the frozen chopped spinach quickly and efficiently.
• Microwave-safe bowl - To heat and mix the ingredients together in the microwave.
• Microwave-safe cover or microwave-safe plate - To cover the bowl while microwaving the spinach, preventing any splatters.
• Spoon or spatula - To stir and incorporate the cream cheese and grated Parmesan into the spinach.
• Strainer or colander - To drain any excess liquid from the defrosted spinach.
• Measuring cups and spoons - To accurately measure the grated Parmesan cheese and other ingredients.
• Optional: Microwave-safe oven mitts - To handle the hot bowl safely when removing it from the microwave.

How to Make this Recipe

Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card for three ingredient creamed spinach. 

To make this easy and delicious three ingredient creamed spinach, start by defrosting the frozen chopped spinach in the microwave for about 8 minutes, stirring it partway through.

Once defrosted, drain any excess liquid from the spinach using a strainer or colander. Next, add the low-fat cream cheese (neufchatel) and grated Parmesan cheese to the spinach in a microwave-safe bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to stir and incorporate the cream cheese fully into the mixture. The cream cheese may require some effort to combine, but don't worry, it will blend in nicely.

Microwave the bowl again for an additional 2 minutes to soften the cream cheese further. Afterward, stir the creamed spinach again until everything is well incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

Now comes the fun part – seasoning the creamed spinach! Add salt, pepper, or any other preferred seasonings to enhance the flavors according to your taste. You can even experiment with additional herbs and spices like garlic powder or nutmeg for more complexity. This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to tailor it to your liking.

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Creamed Spinach: Add minced garlic to the creamed spinach for a delightful garlic flavor. You can also mix in shredded mozzarella or Gruyere cheese along with the Parmesan for an extra cheesy twist.
• Spinach and Artichoke Creamed Dip: Incorporate chopped artichoke hearts into the creamed spinach for a creamy and flavorful dip. This variation is perfect for serving with chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.
• Creamed Spinach with Bacon: Cook crispy bacon separately and crumble it over the creamed spinach before serving. The combination of savory bacon and creamy spinach creates a mouthwatering dish.
• Creamed Spinach with Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and add them to the creamed spinach. The earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the creamy spinach beautifully.
• Lemon Herb Creamed Spinach: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to brighten up the flavors of the dish.
• Spicy Creamed Spinach: If you enjoy a kick of heat, mix in some chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the creamed spinach for a spicy variation.
• Creamed Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the creamed spinach for a burst of tangy sweetness and a vibrant touch of color.
• Creamed Spinach Stuffed Chicken or Portobello Mushrooms: Use the creamed spinach as a filling for chicken breasts or large portobello mushrooms before baking or grilling them for a tasty and impressive main dish.
• Creamed Spinach Casserole: Transfer the creamed spinach to a baking dish, top it with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown for a comforting casserole.
• Vegan Creamed Spinach: Replace the low-fat cream cheese with plant-based cream cheese, such as almond-based or cashew-based, to make a creamy vegan version of this dish.

Wine Pairing

• Sauvignon Blanc: This wine's bright acidity and herbaceous notes complement the creamed spinach beautifully, creating a balanced and refreshing pairing.
• Chardonnay: Look for unoaked or lightly oaked Chardonnay with crisp acidity and flavors of green apple and citrus. It will enhance the richness of the dish without overwhelming it.
• Pinot Grigio: With its light and zesty character, Pinot Grigio is an excellent match for creamed spinach, adding a touch of citrus and pear flavors to the overall experience.
• Vermentino: This lesser-known white wine offers a crisp, mineral-driven profile with hints of tropical fruits, making it a delightful companion to the creamed spinach.
• Chenin Blanc: With its versatile nature, Chenin Blanc can adapt to different flavors, and its combination of acidity and slight sweetness can enhance the dish's taste.

FAQ's

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach for this recipe. Be sure to blanch and chop the fresh spinach before proceeding with the rest of the instructions.

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of low-fat cream cheese (neufchatel)?

Absolutely! Regular cream cheese will work just as well and will add extra richness to the creamed spinach.

How do I prevent the cream cheese from clumping in the mixture?

To ensure a smooth texture, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with the spinach. You can also microwave the mixture for an additional 2 minutes after stirring to help soften the cream cheese further.

Can I add other seasonings or herbs to the creamed spinach?

Yes, feel free to get creative with seasonings and herbs! Additional options include minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and various herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains only plant-based ingredients.

Can I make this three ingredient creamed spinach ahead of time?

While the creamed spinach is best served fresh, you can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze the leftover creamed spinach?

Freezing creamed spinach is not recommended, as the texture and flavor may be affected upon thawing.

What dishes can I pair with the creamed spinach?

This creamy side dish complements a wide range of main courses, such as grilled chicken, steak, roasted vegetables, or even served as a dip with bread or chips.

How long will the creamed spinach stay fresh in the refrigerator?

The creamed spinach will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2 to 3 days when properly stored in an airtight container.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, the three-ingredient creamed spinach recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Tips

• Defrosting Spinach: Make sure to completely defrost the frozen chopped spinach before starting the recipe. This can be done in the microwave, but if using fresh spinach, blanch and chop it before adding it to the dish.
• Drain Excess Liquid: After defrosting the spinach, drain any excess liquid thoroughly to prevent the creamed spinach from becoming too watery.
• Softening Cream Cheese: To make it easier to incorporate the cream cheese into the spinach, ensure it is at room temperature before mixing. You can also microwave the mixture for an additional 2 minutes after stirring to help soften the cream cheese further.
• Season to Taste: Feel free to customize the seasoning according to your preference. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings until you achieve the desired flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese: While the recipe calls for grated Parmesan cheese, don't hesitate to experiment with other cheese options like cheddar or Gouda for different flavor profiles.
• Customize the Recipe: Add minced garlic, onions, or other vegetables if you desire additional flavors and textures in the creamed spinach.
• Watch the Microwave: Microwaves vary in power, so keep a close eye on the spinach while defrosting and microwaving to avoid overcooking.
• Serve Immediately: The creamed spinach is best served fresh and hot. However, if you need to prepare it in advance, reheat it in the microwave before serving.
• Pairing and Serving: Consider the main dish you'll be serving with the creamed spinach and adjust the seasonings and cheese choices accordingly for a harmonious meal.
• Storage: Store any leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Looking for more recipes?

Looking for more side dishes? Try my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, Parker House Rolls, and Green Bean Casserole Mac n' Cheese.

Did You Make this Recipe?

Please leave a comment and rating below, also let me know what you thought of this recipe. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @Meghanitup or share it on Pinterest so that I can follow along.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? You can also follow along on Instagram and Pinterest for more recipe updates.

Recipe Card

📋 Recipe