3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach: The Absolutely Delicious & Creamiest Side Dish

Name: 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach: The Absolutely Delicious & Creamiest Side Dish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 oz frozen chopped spinach (or 3 lbs fresh spinach, steamed); 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Introduction

A great side dish can turn an ordinary meal into something truly special, and 3 ingredient creamed spinach is one of the best options out there. This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also delivers rich, creamy flavors that complement a variety of main courses. Whether you are making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a feast for a special occasion, this easy creamed spinach recipe is the perfect addition to your menu.

One of the best things about this creamy spinach recipe is that it requires just three simple ingredients—spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan. There’s no need for complicated sauces or fancy techniques; everything comes together in just a few minutes. Plus, this homemade creamed spinach is so versatile that it can be served as a side, a dip, or even a topping for meats and pasta.

If you’re looking for a spinach side dish that is not only delicious but also quick and budget-friendly, this is the one for you. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about making the best creamed spinach, from choosing the right ingredients to storage tips and serving suggestions. Keep reading to learn how to make 3 ingredient creamed spinach that’s smooth, rich, and absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach

When it comes to side dishes, ease and flavor are the most important factors. Thankfully, this easy creamed spinach ticks both boxes. Here’s why you’ll love making it:

Super Quick & Easy – With only three ingredients and a short cooking time, this is one of the fastest creamed spinach recipes you can make.
Minimal Ingredients – No long shopping list, just spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan.
Budget-Friendly – You don’t have to spend a lot to make this creamy spinach recipe delicious.
Versatile & Adaptable – Serve it as a side, dip, or even use it in other dishes.
Keto & Low-Carb – This keto creamed spinach is perfect for those following a low-carb diet.
Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and can be easily reheated.

Because this homemade creamed spinach is so simple, it’s great for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced chef, you’ll appreciate how easily this dish comes together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make 3 ingredient creamed spinach, you only need a handful of ingredients, but each one plays an important role in creating a delicious, creamy texture.

Fresh spinach, a block of cream cheese, and a wedge of Parmesan cheese arranged on a wooden board for 3 ingredient creamed spinach.

Spinach (Frozen or Fresh) – The star of the dish. You can use either fresh spinach or frozen spinach, depending on what’s available.
Cream Cheese – This is what gives this creamy spinach recipe its signature texture.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a rich, savory depth of flavor that makes this the best creamed spinach you’ll ever try.

Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: Which is Best?

Both fresh and frozen spinach work well in this creamed spinach recipe, but they have different advantages:

Frozen Spinach – More convenient, already chopped, and easy to steam. Just be sure to drain it well.
Fresh Spinach – Has a slightly fresher taste and brighter color, but it requires more prep work.

If using fresh spinach, remember that it shrinks significantly when cooked. You’ll need about 3 lbs of fresh spinach to equal 24 oz of frozen spinach.

How to Make 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach (Step-by-Step Guide)

Making this easy creamed spinach recipe couldn’t be simpler. With just a few steps, you’ll have a creamy, delicious side dish ready in no time.

Fresh spinach wilting in a cast-iron skillet, stirred with a wooden spoon, preparing for a creamy creamed spinach recipe.

Step 1: Cook the Spinach

If using frozen spinach, steam it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan over medium heat until wilted.

Step 2: Drain & Remove Excess Moisture

Whether you use fresh spinach or frozen spinach, it’s essential to remove as much moisture as possible.
Place the spinach in a colander and press down with a spoon or use paper towels to soak up excess water.

Step 3: Mix in Cream Cheese & Parmesan

While the spinach is still warm, add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted.
Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and mix well to combine.

A person mixing cream cheese and Parmesan into wilted spinach, creating a rich and creamy texture in a white ceramic bowl.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is mixed, serve immediately as a spinach side dish or a dip.

A creamy, cheesy bowl of creamed spinach plated next to a juicy steak and mashed potatoes, ready to be served for dinner.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamed Spinach

To make sure your homemade creamed spinach turns out perfect every time, follow these tips:

Avoid watery creamed spinach – Always drain well before adding the cream cheese.
Use room-temperature cream cheese – This makes it easier to mix and creates a smoother sauce.
Season to taste – While this recipe is delicious as-is, you can enhance the flavor with a pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, or nutmeg.

Variations to Try

Want to customize your easy creamed spinach recipe? Here are a few delicious variations:

Garlic Creamed Spinach – Add minced garlic for extra depth of flavor.
Cheesy Creamed Spinach – Stir in mozzarella, Gruyère, or feta cheese.
Low-Fat Version – Use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese for a lighter dish.
Mexican-Style Spinach – Add chopped bacon, sautéed onions, and jalapeños.

What to Serve with Creamed Spinach

This spinach side dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many main courses, including:

Pair with Other Classic Side Dishes: If you’re looking to round out your meal, pair this creamed spinach with a Green Bean Casserole. The combination of creamy spinach and tender green beans in a rich, flavorful sauce makes for a holiday-worthy spread or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Pair with a Creamy Main Dish: For a truly indulgent meal, serve this dish alongside Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. Both dishes are creamy and rich, complementing each other perfectly with layers of flavor and texture.
Serve with Freshly Baked Bread: Creamed spinach also pairs wonderfully with Southern-Style Unsweetened Cornbread. The slightly crumbly, buttery texture of the cornbread balances the smooth creaminess of the spinach, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
Turn It into a Crowd-Pleasing Dip: Want to take this dish in a different direction? Try using it as a dip! Pair it with Smoked Queso for a creamy, cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for game nights, parties, or holiday gatherings.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Making homemade creamed spinach ahead of time? Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

A glass container filled with leftover creamed spinach, sealed and ready for storage, with a small portion being reheated in a pan.

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat – Warm it up on low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Freeze? Yes! Freeze in portions and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How to Make Simple Creamy Spinach

Making simple creamy spinach is easy and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s a quick method to prepare a delicious, creamy spinach dish:
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed)
2 tbsp butter
½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese (or any cheese of choice)
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Spinach – If using fresh spinach, sauté it in butter for 2-3 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, heat it in a pan until warm.
Add the Garlic – Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in the Cream – Add heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Mix in the Cheese – Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth and creamy.
Season and Serve – Add salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
This creamy spinach recipe is perfect as a side dish for steak, chicken, or fish.

How to Make Paula Deen’s Creamed Spinach

Paula Deen’s creamed spinach recipe is rich, buttery, and packed with Southern-style flavors. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1 lb fresh spinach, chopped (or 16 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté the Onion and Garlic – Melt butter in a pan, then cook the onion and garlic until soft.
Make the Sauce – Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
Add the Spinach – Mix in fresh or thawed spinach and cook for 3-5 minutes.
Mix in Cheese and Seasonings – Stir in Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Serve Warm – Remove from heat and serve with your favorite main course.
This homemade creamed spinach is a perfect holiday side dish!

What Is the Best Cheese for Creamed Spinach?

The best cheese for creamed spinach depends on your flavor preference. Here are some great options:
Parmesan Cheese – Classic choice with a nutty, salty taste.
Mozzarella – Melts well and creates a gooey texture.
Gruyère – Adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
Feta – A tangy option for a Mediterranean twist.
Cheddar – Makes the dish extra creamy and flavorful.
For the best creamed spinach, mix a few different cheeses for a more complex taste.

How to Make Simple Spinach

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to prepare spinach, here’s a simple spinach recipe:
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh spinach
1 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
Heat the Oil – In a pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
Sauté the Garlic – Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Spinach – Toss in the spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
Season and Serve – Add salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
This quick spinach recipe is a healthy and delicious side dish for any meal.

This 3 ingredient creamed spinach recipe is the perfect combination of easy, quick, and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a classic creamed spinach side or a creamy dip, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite!