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Creamed Spinach (Spinach Maria) Recipe


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  • Author: Chef Sophia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Creamed Spinach (Spinach Maria) is a rich, indulgent side dish featuring fresh spinach, three types of cheese, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. Made with a creamy blend of mozzarella, Cheddar Jack, and heavy cream, this dish is perfect for any meal. Whether you bake it or serve it straight from the stovetop, it’s sure to become a family favorite.


Ingredients

For the Creamed Spinach:

24 oz fresh spinach (or 12 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

⅓ cup unsalted butter

½ yellow onion, diced

2 cups heavy cream (substitute with half-and-half or whole milk)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes, divided (½ teaspoon for garnish)

4 oz shredded Mozzarella cheese

6 oz shredded Cheddar Jack cheese (use half Monterey Jack and half Sharp Cheddar if buying separate)

1 teaspoon black pepper, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the spinach: If using fresh spinach, blanch it in hot water, then drain and set aside (using an ice bath helps preserve the color). For frozen spinach, thaw and drain excess water.

  2. Preheat the oven (optional): If you’re baking the creamed spinach, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

  3. Sauté the onions: In a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

  4. Make the cream sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Once it begins to bubble, reduce heat to low and stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.

  5. Add the cheese: Stir in Mozzarella and 4 oz of Cheddar Jack cheese, whisking until a thick cheese sauce forms.

  6. Add the spinach: Squeeze out any excess water from the spinach and stir it into the cheese sauce. Mix well until fully combined.

  7. Optional baking step: If you’re baking the dish, sprinkle the remaining 2 oz of Cheddar Jack cheese over the spinach mixture and bake for 3-4 minutes, or until the top is melted and bubbly.

  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with the remaining red pepper flakes and black pepper. Serve immediately, hot and delicious!

Notes

  • Cheese substitutions: Swap Cheddar Jack for other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Fontina for a different flavor.
  • Vegan option: Use dairy-free butter, cream, and cheese substitutes for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Extra flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms, roasted garlic, for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or milk to restore creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American