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Creamy Spinach with Nutmeg: Easy Steakhouse Thanksgiving Side

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This creamy spinach with nutmeg is a classic steakhouse-inspired side dish, featuring fresh spinach in a velvety, buttery sauce with a gentle warmth from nutmeg. It’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for Thanksgiving or any comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 ounces fresh spinach, washed and stemmed (or frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse spinach thoroughly and pat dry. Remove tough stems if using mature spinach. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add spinach in batches, stirring until wilted (about 3-4 minutes per batch). Remove spinach and set aside. Drain again if needed.
  3. In the same skillet, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle flour over onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until golden and nutty.
  5. Gradually pour in milk while whisking, then add heavy cream. Continue whisking and cook for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Stir in nutmeg, black pepper, and salt to taste. Add Parmesan cheese, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Add wilted spinach to the sauce, folding gently to coat all leaves. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through and creamy. Add a splash of milk if sauce is too thick.
  8. Spoon creamy spinach into a warm serving bowl. Garnish with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.

Notes

Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid watery sauce. Freshly grated nutmeg and Parmesan enhance flavor. For gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Dairy-free options include plant butter and coconut cream. Make ahead and gently reheat with a splash of milk or cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy spinach, nutmeg, steakhouse side, Thanksgiving, easy vegetable side, comfort food, holiday recipe, spinach recipe

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/creamy-spinach-with-nutmeg-easy-steakhouse-thanksgiving-side/