Three-Cheese Creamed Spinach is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, earthy flavors of spinach with a velvety, creamy sauce made from three different cheeses. This dish is perfect as a side for any holiday meal or a cozy dinner, adding a sophisticated twist to a classic favorite. The blend of cheeses—cream cheese for smoothness, Parmesan for a salty, nutty kick, and mozzarella for that irresistible melt—creates a luscious texture and a depth of flavor that complements the tender spinach perfectly. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roast or as part of a vegetarian spread, this Three-Cheese Creamed Spinach is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spinach: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spinach and blanch for about 1 minute until wilted. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Squeeze out excess water from the spinach and chop coarsely. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and is well combined with the onions and garlic. Gradually stir in the heavy cream, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella, mixing until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Cook: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, folding it into the cheese sauce until the spinach is evenly coated. Continue to cook on low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish. For an extra touch, you can top it with additional grated Parmesan and place it under the broiler for a minute until golden and bubbly. Serve hot.
Enjoy this indulgent, cheesy delight alongside your favorite main courses!
