Lord Charley'S Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach with savory onion and garlic flavors, rich half and half, and butter create a luscious side perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water, dried onion flakes, and frozen chopped spinach in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Cook until the spinach is thawed, then drain and set aside.
- Return the drained spinach to the pot.
- Add half and half, salt, garlic salt, pepper, and butter to the spinach.
- Cook over medium heat until heated through and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute heavy cream for half and half. If you don't have dried onion flakes, use fresh chopped onions and sauté them in the butter before adding the spinach. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor, reminiscent of classic American recipes. If using fresh spinach, adjust the cooking time as it will wilt quickly.
Serving Suggestions
This creamed spinach pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted chicken, making it a perfect side dish for a family dinner. Consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it with a hearty grain like quinoa or bulgur. Explore more vegetarian recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the creamed spinach in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. You can also add a splash of half and half to restore creaminess when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lord Charley'S Creamed Spinach contains roughly 22 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1755mg per serving (76% 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, fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen. You'll need about 10-12 ounces of fresh spinach, as it wilts down significantly. Simply sauté it in the pot until wilted and then proceed with the rest of the recipe. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure it's heated through.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this creamed spinach dairy-free, substitute the half and half with a non-dairy milk such as almond or soy milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. You can also add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamed spinach ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator once cooled. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of liquid if needed to restore creaminess.
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).