Creamed Spinach Bake

Name: Creamed Spinach Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter; 1/8 cup flour; 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic; 1.5 cups half & half; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 2 cups parmesan cheese (divided); 16 ounces fresh spinach leaves (or 1 box frozen leaf spinach); 5 strips crispy Turkey Bacon

Published: January 1, 2026

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Experience: The combination of creamy textures and savory cheese creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up this delicious side dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Dish: Whether for holidays or weeknight dinners, this Creamed Spinach Bake fits perfectly on any table.
Customizable Ingredients: Use fresh or frozen spinach based on what you have, making it convenient and adaptable.
Crowd-Pleaser: Rich in flavor and topped with crispy Turkey Bacon, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smoother, gather the essential tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you enjoy making this delicious Creamed Spinach Bake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Oven-safe skillet
Whisk
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Oven-safe skillet: This allows you to go from stovetop to oven seamlessly, ensuring optimal cooking.
Whisk: A whisk helps to mix ingredients evenly, giving your sauce a smooth texture without lumps.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key in baking; these ensure your ingredients are just right for the best outcome.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 3 tablespoon butter
– 1/8 cup flour
– 1 heaping tablespoon freshly minced garlic
– 1.5 cups half & half
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups parmesan cheese (divided)
– 16 ounces fresh spinach leaves (or 1 box frozen leaf spinach, not chopped)
– 5 strips crispy Turkey Bacon for topping
– optional; 2 teaspoons seasoning blend (recipe in notes)

How to Make Creamed Spinach Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your Creamed Spinach Bake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the freshly minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Make a Roux

Stir in the flour to create a paste. This roux will help thicken your sauce as you add liquids.

Step 4: Add Creams

Lower your heat to medium-low. Gradually add in the heavy cream and half & half while stirring continuously until it begins to thicken.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese

Add in one cup of parmesan cheese and mix until well combined. If the mixture is too thick, add a bit more heavy cream or half & half until it’s just right.

Step 6: Add Spinach

Stir in the spinach leaves in batches, mixing until they start to wilt down into the creamy mixture.

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cup of parmesan cheese on top. For added flavor, consider using a seasoning blend if desired.

Step 8: Bake

Place your skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown on top.

Step 9: Finish with Turkey Bacon

Once out of the oven, immediately top with crispy diced Turkey Bacon for that extra crunch!

Enjoy serving this amazing Creamed Spinach Bake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or enjoying a casual family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

Pair it with roasted meats for a hearty addition.
Serve alongside grilled chicken to balance flavors.

In a Casserole

Layer it in a casserole dish for potlucks or gatherings.
Top with additional cheese for an extra cheesy delight.

With Bread

Offer it with crusty bread for dipping.
Use it as a spread on toasted baguette slices.

For Breakfast

Serve it alongside scrambled eggs for a brunch option.
Mix it into an omelet for added flavor.

In a Pasta Dish

Stir into pasta for a creamy spinach sauce.
Combine with penne or fusilli for a comforting meal.

As an Appetizer

Spoon into individual ramekins for serving at parties.
Accompany with crackers or chips as finger food.

How to Perfect Creamed Spinach Bake

Achieving the perfect Creamed Spinach Bake requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and texture compared to frozen options.
Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of half & half and heavy cream based on your preference for creaminess.
Crisp the Turkey bacon: Ensure your Turkey Bacon is crispy before adding it on top to enhance texture and flavor.
Season well: Don’t skip the seasoning blend; it adds depth and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the cheese while baking to avoid over-browning. Aim for golden, not burned!
Cool before serving: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps set the ingredients and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Spinach Bake

Creamed Spinach Bake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can round out your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken complements the creaminess of the spinach beautifully.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The buttery softness of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast.
Grilled Asparagus: Crisp asparagus adds freshness and color, balancing heavy dishes nicely.
Caesar Salad: A tangy Caesar salad brings crunch and acidity, enhancing flavors across the plate.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes contrasts well with savory dishes like Creamed Spinach Bake.
Cornbread Muffins: Light, fluffy cornbread muffins add texture and warmth to your meal.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers grains and veggies, making it a healthy side option.
Herb Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs can soak up all those delicious flavors from the bake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamed Spinach Bake, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Using the Wrong Spinach: Fresh spinach works best, but if you choose frozen, make sure it’s not chopped. This ensures a better texture in your dish.
Not Thinning the Sauce: If your cream mixture becomes too thick, it can dry out during baking. Always add a little extra cream or half & half to maintain a creamy consistency.
Skipping the Seasoning: Flavor is key! Ignoring spices means missing out on the full potential of this dish. Use seasoning blends or simply salt and pepper to enhance taste.
Overbaking: Baking for too long can lead to burnt cheese on top. Keep an eye on it after 15 minutes to achieve the perfect golden crust.
Neglecting Toppings: The crispy Turkey Bacon adds texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; sprinkle it generously after baking for that extra crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamed Spinach Bake

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
For best results, wrap tightly with plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Creamed Spinach Bake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the creamy texture.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamed Spinach Bake.

Can I use frozen spinach for Creamed Spinach Bake?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure it’s not chopped and thaw it before adding it into the mixture.

What cheese works best in Creamed Spinach Bake?

Parmesan cheese is recommended for its rich flavor and melting qualities, but you could also mix in mozzarella or cheddar for additional creaminess.

How can I customize my Creamed Spinach Bake?

Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, artichokes, or different types of cheese to suit your tastes.

Is Creamed Spinach Bake suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes a great side that can be reheated easily throughout the week.

Can I make Creamed Spinach Bake ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving!

Final Thoughts

Creamed Spinach Bake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It makes an excellent side dish for any holiday meal or family gathering. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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