Reba Kelly'S Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach with crispy bacon bits offers a rich, savory side perfect for complementing main courses. The combination of sautéed onions, bacon drippings, and smooth spinach creates a comforting dish with bold flavors that appeals to both vegetable lovers and meat enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in bacon drippings until translucent.
- Add flour to the sautéed onion and cook for about 1 minute.
- Stir in liquid from the can of spinach and cook for another minute to make a smooth sauce.
- Add the spinach and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with chopped bacon bits before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon. If you're short on time, fresh spinach can be used instead of canned—just sauté until wilted. You can also add a splash of cream for extra creaminess or a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. For those watching their sodium, opt for no-salt-added spinach and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This creamed spinach pairs beautifully with classic American recipes like Pork Chop Stew or Sloppy Joes. Serve it alongside roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, for a comforting meal. It can also be a delicious side for holiday dinners, providing a creamy contrast to other dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reba Kelly'S Creamed Spinach contains roughly 167 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% 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 canned?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté about 10 ounces of fresh spinach until wilted, then add it to the sauce. This will provide a fresher taste and vibrant color to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter for sautéing. You can add a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor that mimics the bacon.
What can I serve with creamed spinach?
Creamed spinach is excellent with meats like steak or pork chops. It also complements hearty dishes like Baked Beans or Ham And Cabbage, offering a creamy texture alongside the savory flavors.
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).