Creamed Spinach with Fried Shallots – A Comforting Delight for Every Occasion

Published : January 25, 2026

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This dish of creamed spinach with fried shallots makes for a tasty side that’s both hearty and satisfying; the combination of creamy spinach and crispy shallots adds a delightful crunch to every bite. I remember enjoying this dish at family gatherings, where it always stole the show amid more traditional fare. This recipe can effortlessly make any meal feel special, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. Imagine the rich, velvety cream paired with the vibrant green of fresh spinach, all topped with the savory crunch of fried shallots. It is pure comfort food that elevates any dining experience.

Creamed spinach topped with crispy fried shallots served in a bowl.

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Enjoy Creamed Spinach

Looking for a comforting side that packs flavor and nutrition? Creamed spinach is a fantastic choice any time of year. With fresh spinach being versatile and packed with nutrients, this dish provides a nutritional punch while still being incredibly satisfying. Perfect for fall and winter meals, the rich creamy texture is synonymous with warmth, making it ideal for cozy days indoors. Pair it with roasted chicken or a holiday meal for a delightful addition that will leave everyone wanting seconds.

What Makes Our Version of Creamed Spinach Special?

Our take on creamed spinach goes beyond the traditional. This recipe features freshly minced garlic and a soothing pinch of nutmeg that enhances the creamy base, giving it a unique flavor profile. Unlike many versions you might find, we elevate this dish with crispy fried shallots, providing both a textural contrast and a savory note that complements the creaminess perfectly. The inclusion of freshly grated parmesan not only adds depth but also helps create a luscious mouthfeel that you won’t forget. For a detailed explanation of the health benefits of spinach, you can visit this informative page. Check out this delicious lasagna for a comforting family meal.

Gather Your Ingredients: What Do You Need?

Here’s a simple table of ingredients to make this wonderful creamed spinach.

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh Spinach	1 pound
Butter	2 tablespoons
Heavy Cream	1 cup
Garlic	2-3 cloves, minced
Shallots	2 large, sliced thinly
Salt	to taste
Pepper	to taste
Nutmeg	pinch
Parmesan Cheese	1/2 cup, grated

Fresh spinach is the star of the plate, boasting an abundance of vitamins A, C, and K, alongside iron and calcium. If you cannot find fresh spinach, you can substitute it with frozen spinach; just remember to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture. Heavy cream creates a silky texture, while shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor than onions, perfect for this dish. A hint of nutmeg adds warmth, taking the flavor to another level.

How Do You Make Creamed Spinach with Fried Shallots?

Making this delightful dish is simple and quick. Let’s delve into the steps needed to create your creamed spinach masterpiece.

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add your minced garlic and allow it to cook until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds. Next, add the fresh spinach to the pot. You’ll notice it wilt quickly, which is exactly what you want. Stir it continuously to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

Once the spinach is wilted, pour in the heavy cream. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to elevate the flavor. Allow the mixture to cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream thickens slightly. This process intensifies the flavors.

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Nutritional Values
10 minutes	15 minutes	25 minutes	Calories: 250, Protein: 6g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 22g

Step 3: Fry the Shallots and Serve

While the cream thickens, prepare the shallots. Heat oil in a pan until hot, and then fry the thinly sliced shallots until they turn golden brown and crispy – generally, around 2 to 3 minutes. Make sure to remove them promptly and place them to drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Once your creamed spinach is ready, serve it warm, generously topped with crispy fried shallots and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This will provide a beautiful visual and textural contrast to the dish.

What Variations Can You Try with Creamed Spinach?

When it comes to creating variety in your dishes, the potential is limitless with creamed spinach.

Diet Swap

For those looking for a dairy-free version, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream as a substitute for heavy cream. Not only does this make the dish vegan-friendly, but it also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the spinach well.

Flavor Variation

If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the cream mixture. This will brighten the flavors and introduce a zesty element that offsets the creaminess beautifully. For more side dish inspiration, check out this classic green bean casserole.

Serving Idea

This creamed spinach pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken, turkey, or even fish. It also makes an excellent filling for stuffed portobello mushrooms or an elegant sandwich filling. For a complete meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or garlic bread.

Suggested Pairings	Tips
Roasted Chicken	Add more garlic for a bolder flavor.
Grilled Salmon	Use low-fat cream for a lighter version.
Stuffed Mushrooms	Incorporate fresh herbs for added dimension.

Final Thoughts on Creamed Spinach

This rich creamed spinach with fried shallots is an unforgettable side dish that elevates any meal. I find it to be a go-to recipe for family dinners and celebrations, as everyone seems to love it. The preparation is quick and straightforward, you’ll have a delicious dish on the table in no time. The rich flavors and comforting textures are sure to be a hit with your loved ones. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Don’t hesitate to share your experience with this recipe on Pinterest; it’s a sure favorite. Explore more recipes to inspire your next meal.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach for this recipe. Make sure to thaw it and drain off any excess water to maintain the desired creaminess of the dish. Frozen spinach can save you time and still provide great flavor.

How can I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version of creamed spinach, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk. Alternatively, using a combination of nourishing vegetable or chicken broth with a small amount of cream can provide a satisfying flavor without all the calories.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the creamed spinach a day ahead and simply reheat it before serving. Add the fried shallots just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

What other cheeses can I use?

In addition to Parmesan, you can use Gruyère, feta, or even goat cheese for a unique touch. Each of these cheeses offers a different flavor profile, enhancing the dish’s creaminess.

Are there vegan alternatives for this recipe?

Yes, to make a vegan version of creamed spinach, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast for an added cheesy flavor.

About the Author

James Walker is a CookMinutes recipe developer specializing in quick, efficient, one-pan meals. His practical, time-saving cooking style helps busy home cooks prepare flavorful dishes with simple ingredients and minimal effort.

About CookMinutes

At CookMinutes, we share real recipes for real life, simple, nourishing, and tested in everyday kitchens. Our small team of passionate home cooks focuses on practical meals you can trust, from quick weeknight dinners to cozy weekend bakes. No fluff, just honest food made with care.