Southern-Style Creamed Spinach with Garlic and Cheddar Cheese
A quick and easy Southern-style creamed spinach side dish cooked on the stovetop with fresh spinach, garlic, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy base for comforting richness.
Ingredients
Check ingredients as you go.
- Main
- Cream Sauce
- Main
- Seasoning
Let’s make it
Preparation
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and foaming.
Preparation
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Preparation
Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Cream Sauce
Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency, about 3-4 minutes.
Main
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring to coat it well with the sauce. Cook until the spinach wilts and releases some moisture, about 3-4 minutes.
Main
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the creamed spinach mixture.
Seasoning
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg if desired for a warm depth of flavor. Stir well and remove from heat.
Serving
Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish and serve immediately as a Southern-style side dish to your favorite main course.
Tips & notes
Use fresh, well-washed spinach for the best flavor and texture. Stir the sauce frequently to avoid lumps and ensure the roux cooks properly. Freshly grated cheddar melts better and gives a sharper taste than pre-shredded cheese with additives.
Saving it for later
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. Consume within 3 days. The creamed spinach can be refrigerated but does not freeze well due to texture changes from milk and cheese.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much. Microwave reheating is possible but stir every 30 seconds.
