Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a delightful dish that elevates any meal with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for festive gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, showcasing the rich flavor of spinach combined with a savory cheese blend. Topped with crispy turkey bacon, this dish is not only indulgent but also a healthier twist on a classic favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and half & half creates a rich, velvety texture that makes this dish irresistible.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holiday meals or casual dinners alike, this creamed spinach bake fits various occasions effortlessly.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious side ready in just 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Topping: The crispy turkey bacon adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.
• Customizable Ingredients: Use fresh or frozen spinach based on availability, making it adaptable to your pantry staples.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key tools you’ll need for preparing this Creamed Spinach Bake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Oven-safe skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Oven-safe skillet: Provides the convenience of cooking and baking in one dish, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly without clumps, particularly when combining flour with liquids.
• Measuring cups: Guarantees precise ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

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Ingredients

For the Creamy Base

• 3 tablespoon butter
• 1/8 cup flour
• 1 heaping tablespoon freshly minced garlic
• 1.5 cups half & half
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups parmesan cheese (divided)

For the Spinach

• 16 ounces fresh spinach leaves (or 1 box frozen leaf spinach, not chopped)

For Topping

• 5 strips crispy Turkey Bacon for topping
• optional; 2 teaspoons seasoning blend (recipe in notes)

How to Make Creamed Spinach Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking your creamed spinach.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Make Paste

Melt butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in flour until you form a paste.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Mixture

Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly add heavy cream and half & half. Stir continuously until it begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese

Stir in 1 cup of parmesan cheese until fully combined. If the mixture is too thick, feel free to add more cream or half & half as needed.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

Add fresh spinach leaves gradually, stirring until they start to wilt and fully integrate into the creamy base.

Step 6: Add More Cheese and Seasoning

Top your mixture with the remaining 1 cup of parmesan cheese. Optionally, sprinkle with your chosen seasoning blend for extra flavor.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is nicely browned on top. After removing from the oven, sprinkle with crispy diced turkey bacon immediately.

Enjoy your delightful Creamed Spinach Bake as an incredible side dish that will impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a versatile dish that pairs well with various meals. Its creamy texture and cheesy topping make it an appealing side for many different entrees. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken breasts add a lean protein option that complements the rich flavors of the creamed spinach.

Alongside Beef Tenderloin

• The savory taste of beef tenderloin pairs beautifully with the creamy spinach, creating a satisfying contrast.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Serve this dish as part of your holiday spread. It works wonderfully alongside roasted turkey or lamb.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Adding roasted vegetables provides a colorful and nutritious balance to the richness of the creamed spinach.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Bake

To make sure your Creamed Spinach Bake turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach offers a vibrant flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s well-drained.
• Control the thickness: Adjust the consistency by adding more half & half if the mixture is too thick for your liking.
• Melt cheese properly: Gradually mix in cheese to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
• Crisp the turkey bacon: For added crunch, cook turkey bacon until crispy before topping your dish right after baking.
• Experiment with seasonings: Personalize the flavor by adding herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is an excellent addition to any meal. To round out your dinner, consider serving it with one or more of these delicious side dishes:

1. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, roasted potatoes provide a hearty element to your plate.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with creamed spinach.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the spinach bake.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots offer a touch of sweetness that complements savory dishes beautifully.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and provides a healthy crunch next to the creamy bake.
6. Caprese Salad: A fresh caprese salad brings bright flavors from tomatoes and basil, balancing out richer elements on your plate.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins are perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness of your creamed spinach bake.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette offers freshness and balance to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Creamed Spinach Bake, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds a wonderful flavor to the dish. Don’t skip it; sauté it until fragrant for the best taste.
• Not using enough cheese: Cheese is essential for that creamy texture and rich flavor. Use the full amount of Parmesan cheese for optimal results.
• Overcooking the spinach: Spinach can become mushy if overcooked. Add it in batches and stir just until it wilts to maintain its texture.
• Ignoring the baking time: Keep an eye on the baking process. Remove from the oven once the cheese is browned to prevent burning.
• Using low-fat dairy: For a richer flavor, stick with heavy cream and half & half instead of low-fat alternatives.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Bake

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap; can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Bake

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking or burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamed Spinach Bake:

How can I make my Creamed Spinach Bake healthier?

You can replace heavy cream with a lighter alternative like coconut cream or use less cheese while still achieving great flavor.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach is a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish.

What can I serve with Creamed Spinach Bake?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or as part of a holiday meal spread.

How do I customize my Creamed Spinach Bake?

Feel free to add additional spices, herbs, or even artichokes for extra flavor. You could also try different types of cheese!

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Spinach Bake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its creamy texture and cheesy topping make it an appealing side dish that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist!