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+ servings

Oven-Baked Creamed Spinach with Garlic and Shallots

This easy baked creamed spinach uses frozen spinach for a rich, creamy side dish perfect for holiday dinners or a steakhouse-style meal at home.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Quick Meals, Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 325

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds frozen spinach
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 10 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 large shallots, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, then add the frozen spinach. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until thawed and tender. Drain in a colander, let cool slightly, then wrap the spinach in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. Set aside.
  2. In a very large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and minced garlic, stirring often for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously until smooth and lightly golden, about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the half-and-half and vegetable broth, whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Add the nutmeg, cayenne, and cream cheese, stirring with a wooden spoon until the cheese is melted and the sauce is silky. Fold in the drained spinach until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  3. Transfer the spinach mixture to a baking dish (an 11-inch gratin dish works well). Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 325kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 13gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 67mgSodium: 55mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6g

Notes

To make this dish ahead, prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, bake for an extra 10 to 15 minutes until hot and bubbly. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with 2 to 3 tablespoons of cornstarch or arrowroot powder. If using fresh spinach, you'll need about 5 pounds to yield the equivalent of 3 pounds frozen; blanch and squeeze dry before using. For lower sodium, choose low-sodium broth and check the label on your cream cheese. This recipe easily serves 8 to 10 as a side dish for holiday feasts. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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