German Style Spinach
German Style Spinach is a hearty dish combining tender frozen spinach with a rich, creamy sauce infused with crispy bacon and onions. Perfect as a comforting side or main for those who enjoy savory, flavorful greens with a touch of smoky goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp and remove from skillet.
- Crumble the bacon and set aside.
- In the bacon drippings, blend in the flour.
- Slowly add milk, stirring to make a smooth sauce.
- Add salt, pepper, and chopped onion to the sauce.
- Cook the frozen spinach following the package directions.
- Add the cooked spinach to the sauce and let simmer until thick, about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Serve the spinach topped with crumbled bacon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon or adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor. You can also use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just be sure to sauté it until wilted before adding it to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This German Style Spinach makes a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or grilled sausages. Consider serving it alongside Pork recipes for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, serve with boiled potatoes or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the spinach in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the spinach watery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Style Spinach contains roughly 146 calories, with 8g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2092mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté about 1 pound of fresh spinach in a little olive oil until wilted, then add it to the sauce. Fresh spinach will have a brighter flavor and texture compared to frozen.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Mix the cornstarch with a little cold milk before adding it to the bacon drippings to prevent clumping.
What can I serve with German Style Spinach?
German Style Spinach pairs well with a variety of main dishes. It complements grilled sausages, roasted chicken, or even a simple quiche. For a complete meal, consider serving it with Moro De Frijoles(Rice And Beans Cooked Together) for a hearty and satisfying combination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).