When you need a simple, quick, and delicious side dish, 3 ingredient creamed spinach is the perfect answer. This dish is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—all without the hassle of long ingredient lists and complicated steps. Whether you’re serving it as a side for your holiday dinner or adding it to a weeknight meal, creamed spinach made with just three ingredients proves that less can truly be more.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making this effortless yet impressive dish, including the ingredients, steps, variations, and ways to serve it. With minimal prep and only a few ingredients, creamed spinach can be ready in no time, saving you both time and stress in the kitchen.
Why Choose 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach?
We live in a fast-paced world where time is often limited. When you need to prepare a tasty side dish quickly, 3 ingredient creamed spinach is a fantastic option. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires very few ingredients, and is packed with nutrients thanks to the spinach base. Using only frozen spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan, this recipe transforms these basic ingredients into something rich and creamy.
Beyond its simplicity, this dish is versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a side to a roasted chicken or looking for a tasty dip, creamed spinach adds a touch of elegance to your meal. Plus, it’s perfect for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet, offering a delicious way to get more greens into your diet without feeling like you’re compromising on flavor.
For those curious about working with frozen spinach, it’s convenient and retains most of its nutritional value. To learn more about how to handle frozen spinach, check out this resource on how to defrost frozen spinach.
Key Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
The beauty of 3 ingredient creamed spinach lies in its simplicity. With just three ingredients, you can whip up this side dish in a matter of minutes, yet still achieve the rich flavor and creamy texture of a more complex recipe.
1. Frozen Spinach
Frozen spinach is the base of this recipe, and it’s incredibly convenient to use. Unlike fresh spinach, which requires washing, chopping, and cooking down (since it shrinks significantly during cooking), frozen spinach is already prepped. You simply need to defrost and drain it before adding it to the dish. You can find frozen spinach at any grocery store, and it’s available year-round.
Frozen spinach retains most of the nutritional benefits of fresh spinach and works well in creamy dishes since the moisture is already managed. For more inspiration on using spinach in other recipes, check out this salmon spinach recipe for another creative way to incorporate spinach into your meals.
2. Cream Cheese
Cream cheese adds the rich, creamy base that binds the spinach together and gives the dish its signature texture. You can use either full-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese, depending on your preference. If you’re watching your calories, Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter version of cream cheese that works well in this recipe.
The cream cheese melts smoothly into the spinach, making the dish luxurious without needing a lot of additional ingredients. It provides just the right balance of creaminess to offset the earthiness of the spinach.
3. Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the dish. It also helps to thicken the spinach, giving it a more substantial consistency. Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, but pre-grated Parmesan will work as well if you’re in a pinch.
Adding Parmesan not only enhances the flavor but also adds a slight crunch if you sprinkle extra on top before serving. Its salty, umami profile helps bring the dish together and elevates the simple ingredients.If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, there are great alternatives you can use. Here’s a guide to the best Parmesan cheese substitutes for similar flavor and texture
Step-by-Step Guide to Making 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
Ready to make the easiest creamed spinach ever? Follow this simple guide for the perfect 3 ingredient creamed spinach dish every time.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds frozen spinach, defrosted and drained
- 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
Instructions:
- Defrost and Drain the Spinach: Start by defrosting the frozen spinach. You can microwave it for 8-10 minutes or leave it out at room temperature. Once thawed, drain any excess moisture by pressing the spinach with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure the spinach isn’t watery.
- Cook the Spinach with Cream Cheese: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add the spinach and cream cheese. Stir constantly, breaking up the cream cheese as it melts into the spinach. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the Parmesan Cheese: Once the cream cheese is well combined with the spinach, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and blend into the mixture.
- Season and Serve: Taste the spinach and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while it’s warm, creamy, and delicious.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a perfectly creamy spinach dish in no time. For more creamy inspiration, take a look at this delicious creamy shrimp pasta recipe for another quick and satisfying meal.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ons for Creamed Spinach
Although this recipe is amazing with just three ingredients, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations and add-ons to take your creamed spinach to the next level:
1. Garlic and Onion
Adding garlic and onion brings a savory depth to the dish. You can mince some garlic and sauté it in a bit of olive oil before adding the spinach, or you can add sautéed onions for an even richer flavor. The combination of garlic and cream cheese gives the spinach a bolder, more intense flavor.
2. Artichokes
Transform this into a quick spinach artichoke dip by adding artichokes. Simply drain and chop a can of artichoke hearts, then stir them into the spinach mixture after the cream cheese has melted. This will give the dish a more complex texture and make it ideal for serving with crackers or bread as a dip.
3. Herbs and Spices
Enhance the flavor with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of nutmeg. Nutmeg is traditionally used in creamed spinach recipes because it adds a warm, nutty note that complements the creamy texture. A little goes a long way, so just a small pinch of nutmeg will elevate the dish without overpowering it.
4. Spicy Creamed Spinach
If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the spinach mixture. The heat contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy flavors and adds a kick to an otherwise mild dish.
5. Vegan or Dairy-Free Option
For a vegan or dairy-free version of this dish, simply swap out the cream cheese for a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use a vegan Parmesan substitute. There are plenty of great dairy-free options available today, so you won’t miss out on the creaminess. Check out this guide for vegan cream cheese substitutes to find the best plant-based alternative for your dish.
Serving Suggestions for 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
3 ingredient creamed spinach is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to serve it depending on the occasion. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. As a Side Dish
The most traditional way to enjoy creamed spinach is as a side dish. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats, chicken, or seafood. For a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, serve it alongside roast chicken or turkey. The creamy texture of the spinach contrasts well with roasted proteins, making it a crowd-pleasing option.
If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying pairing, consider trying it with this street corn pasta salad recipe for a delicious and balanced meal.
2. As a Dip
This dish can also double as a creamy spinach dip. Serve it with pita chips, crusty bread, or crackers for an easy appetizer. If you’re hosting a gathering, this option is sure to be a hit with guests. You can even sprinkle extra Parmesan on top and bake it in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly.
3. With Pasta or Potatoes
For a heartier option, serve the creamed spinach with pasta or use it as a topping for baked potatoes. Stirring the creamed spinach into cooked pasta creates a quick and satisfying spinach pasta dish, while spooning it over a baked potato adds a creamy, indulgent topping.
4. With Eggs
Another creative way to enjoy this dish is to serve it with eggs for breakfast or brunch. Use the creamed spinach as a filling for an omelette or serve it alongside poached or scrambled eggs. The richness of the spinach pairs perfectly with eggs and makes for a hearty start to your day.
How to Store and Reheat 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
One of the best things about 3 ingredient creamed spinach is that it stores well, making it a great option for meal prepping or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat your spinach dish:
Storing in the Refrigerator
Once your spinach has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve as the dish sits, making it a fantastic option for reheating later in the week.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
If you’d like to freeze your creamed spinach for later, it’s easy to do so. Transfer the cooled spinach to a freezer-safe container or plastic bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Creamed Spinach
To reheat, transfer the spinach to a saucepan and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the mixture if needed. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until warm.
To ensure your creamed spinach retains its flavor and texture, proper storage is key. Learn more about how to store and reheat spinach dishes to keep it fresh for later.”
FAQs About 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
- Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Simply sauté the fresh spinach in a skillet until wilted, then proceed with the recipe. Keep in mind that fresh spinach will release more water, so you may need to cook it down for a few minutes longer to evaporate the moisture.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
- Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly due to the low carbohydrate content of spinach and the high-fat ingredients like cream cheese and Parmesan. It’s a great option for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the 3 ingredient creamed spinach up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or microwave before serving. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Can I substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative?
- Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative to make this dish dairy-free. Many plant-based cream cheeses are available that mimic the texture and flavor of traditional cream cheese. Pair it with a vegan Parmesan substitute for a fully dairy-free version.
What can I add to make the dish more flavorful?
- You can enhance the flavor of creamed spinach by adding ingredients like garlic, onions, artichokes, or herbs. A pinch of nutmeg or thyme adds depth to the flavor, while red pepper flakes can give it a spicy kick.
Conclusion: Why 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is a Must-Try Recipe
3 ingredient creamed spinach is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With just three ingredients, you can create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a holiday meal or turning it into a quick dip for a party, this recipe has something for everyone.
For more ideas on how to elevate simple dishes, try experimenting with some of the variations listed here, or check out other quick and easy recipes like this quinoa chicken bowl recipe. So, next time you’re in need of a quick side dish, give this 3 ingredient creamed spinach a try—it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!