Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that brings comfort and deliciousness to any meal. This recipe, inspired by the Pioneer Woman, takes this timeless favorite to the next level with its rich, creamy texture and flavorful blend of simple ingredients. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, Pioneer Woman Creamed Spinach is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why Pioneer Woman’s Creamed Spinach is a Must-Try
This isn’t just any creamed spinach recipe; it’s the Pioneer Woman’s version, and that means it’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, is known for her approachable and delicious home cooking, and this creamed spinach recipe is no exception. It’s a fantastic way to get your greens in, even for those who are typically spinach-averse. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the spinach, making it a delightful side dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delectable Pioneer Woman creamed spinach, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
- 8 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 24 ounces fresh baby spinach
Delicious Pioneer Woman Creamed Spinach in a white bowl, ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create perfect Pioneer Woman creamed spinach every time:
- Make the Cream Sauce: In a large pot or saucepan, melt 1 stick of butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the roux (butter and flour mixture) turns a light golden brown. This step is crucial for a flavorful sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the roux and stir. Cook for another minute until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Create the Creamy Base: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Wilt the Spinach: While the cream sauce is simmering, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a separate large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the baby spinach in batches, allowing each batch to wilt down before adding more. Cook until all the spinach is wilted but still vibrant green, about 4-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent soggy spinach.
- Combine and Season: Season the cream sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Gently add the wilted spinach to the cream sauce, stirring to combine everything evenly.
- Serve Immediately: Pioneer Woman creamed spinach is best served hot and fresh. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Creamed Spinach
- Don’t Overcook the Spinach: The key to great creamed spinach is perfectly wilted spinach that still has some texture. Overcooked spinach can become mushy and lose its appeal.
- Fresh is Best: While frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, fresh baby spinach provides the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and nutmeg to your liking. A little extra nutmeg can really elevate the dish.
- Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the cream sauce ahead of time and gently reheat it before adding the freshly wilted spinach just before serving. This can save time when you’re preparing a larger meal.
Pioneer Woman creamed spinach is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday ham, roasted chicken, or a simple weeknight dinner, this creamy spinach recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the deliciousness and simplicity of this Pioneer Woman favorite!
