- What kind of cream should I use?
- Cooking cream (half-and-half) works, but Heavy Cream (36%+) gives the truly creamy texture.
- The spinach collapsed. Is this normal?
- Yes, spinach has high water content; heat causes the cell structure to collapse, and its volume decreases to a fraction.
Easy Creamed Spinach with Heavy Cream
The modern, lighter relative of the spinach stew. Here there is no flour roux; the thickness comes from reducing the cream. A quick side dish for pasta, roast meats, or even salmon. The pairing of spinach and cream is classic, completed by nutmeg.
Ingredients
1
lb
Fresh Spinach
1
cup
Heavy Cream
2
tbsp
Butter
2
cloves
Garlic
1
tsp
Salt
1
pinch
Nutmeg
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Skillet
Allergen Information
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Melt the butter in a skillet, toss in the crushed garlic, then immediately follow with the washed spinach.
Tip: Don't wait for the garlic to brown; the spinach's moisture will protect it from burning.
2
✓
Sauté until the spinach wilts (approx. 2-3 minutes).
Tip: Heat causes the leaves to lose their structure.
3
✓
Pour in the cream, salt, and grate in some nutmeg. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
Tip: Thickening cream by boiling (reduction) intensifies flavors and gives a creamy texture without a roux.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 lb Fresh Spinach
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 pinch Nutmeg