Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a delightful and creamy dish that brings richness to any table. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, showcasing fresh or frozen spinach in a cheesy, comforting bake. The addition of crispy Turkey Bacon provides the perfect finishing touch, making it a standout side dish that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and garlic creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this dish can be made quickly without any fuss.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect as a side dish for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
• Freezes Well: Make it ahead of time and freeze for later use—just reheat when you’re ready to serve!
• Crowd-Pleasing: With its cheesy goodness and textures, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started with your Creamed Spinach Bake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet (oven-safe)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet (oven-safe): Allows you to cook on the stovetop and transfer directly to the oven for baking.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your cream mixture.

Ingredients

For the Creamy 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 ensures that your Creamed Spinach Bake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Create the Base Sauce

Melt butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
1. Stir in flour to create a paste.
2. Lower heat to medium-low.
3. Slowly add heavy cream and half & half while stirring until it thickens.

Step 3: Add Cheese

Add 1 cup of Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture. Stir until fully combined. If the mixture becomes too thick, add more cream or half & half as needed.

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach

Add fresh spinach leaves in batches to the skillet.
* Stir until they start to wilt down into the sauce.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of the spinach mixture.
* Optionally, you can sprinkle with seasoning blend for extra flavor if desired.

Step 6: Bake

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

Step 7: Finish with Turkey Bacon

Once out of the oven, top immediately with crispy diced Turkey Bacon for added crunch and flavor!

Enjoy your delicious Creamed Spinach Bake as a fantastic side dish!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this creamy delight pairs beautifully with various main courses and sides.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken breast complements the richness of the creamed spinach, creating a balanced plate.

Serve with Roast Beef

• The savory flavors of roast beef enhance the creaminess of the dish, making it a hearty combination.

Accompany with Turkey Meatloaf

• Turkey meatloaf adds a comforting touch to your meal and works well with the creamy texture of the spinach bake.

Top with Crispy Turkey Bacon

• For added crunch, sprinkle crispy diced turkey bacon on top just before serving, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Include a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy spinach bake, keeping your meal light and vibrant.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Bake

Creating the perfect Creamed Spinach Bake is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for an irresistible dish.

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach leaves yield better texture and flavor compared to frozen options.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the baking process; overcooking can lead to tough cheese.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; adding salt or pepper can elevate the overall flavor profile.
• Incorporate different cheeses: Experimenting with cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can provide unique twists on taste.
• Let it cool briefly: Allowing the bake to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely for serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Bake

Pairing side dishes with your Creamed Spinach Bake can create a memorable dining experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Roasted Potatoes
   Crisp-tender roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a delightful addition alongside the creamy bake.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair well with spinach’s richness.
3. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and freshness, balancing the heavier elements of your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with vegetables gives a nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish.
5. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet honey-glazed carrots offer a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory creamed spinach.
6. Corn on the Cob
   Juicy corn on the cob brings sweetness and crunch, making it an excellent pairing for this baked delight.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Baked sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and are rich in nutrients, providing balance in flavor profiles.
8. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
   Light cauliflower rice pilaf offers fluffiness while remaining low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent healthy side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing a Creamed Spinach Bake. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Boldly skip the seasoning: Failing to season your dish can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your mixture and adjust with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices.
• Boldly ignoring spinach preparation: Not properly preparing spinach can result in excess moisture. If using frozen spinach, make sure to drain it well before adding it to the dish.
• Boldly overcooking the garlic: Cooking garlic too long can make it bitter. Sauté until fragrant but don’t let it brown.
• Boldly using low-quality cheese: Poor-quality cheese can affect the creaminess and flavor of your bake. Opt for fresh, high-quality Parmesan for the best results.
• Boldly rushing the baking process: Not allowing enough time for the cheese to brown can leave you with a soggy top. Bake until golden for a crispy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Bake

• Allow to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container; it will keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Bake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamed Spinach Bake that might help you out!

Can I use frozen spinach for Creamed Spinach Bake?

Yes! Frozen spinach works well. Just ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained before adding it to your mixture.

How do I customize my Creamed Spinach Bake?

You can add different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, or mix in other vegetables such as artichokes or mushrooms for added flavor.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Creamed Spinach Bake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

How do I make my Creamed Spinach Bake gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to create a roux without gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Spinach Bake is not only flavorful but also lusciously creamy, making it an ideal side dish for any holiday meal. Its versatility allows for endless customization options, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses or veggies. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting goodness!