Ingredients
Spinach
- 1/2 lb. frozen chopped spinach
Vegetables & Aromatics
- ½ cup yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Cooking Fats and Flour
- 3 tbsp. butter
- 3 tbsp. flour
Dairy
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Spices & Seasonings
- ½ tsp. ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp. ground cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Cook the frozen chopped spinach in the microwave according to package instructions, then squeeze out all excess liquid. Set the spinach aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour into the skillet with the softened aromatics and stir continuously, cooking for an additional minute until the mixture becomes foamy. This will create a roux to thicken your sauce.
- Incorporate Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring vigorously to dissolve the flour mixture completely, ensuring a smooth sauce.
- Season and Simmer: Add ground nutmeg, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for five minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Spinach and Cheese: Stir the prepared spinach and grated parmesan cheese into the sauce. Cook together for another minute to warm everything through evenly.
Notes
- Freezing spinach is a great shortcut, but fresh spinach can also be used; just cook and chop it before adding.
- Squeezing out excess moisture from the spinach prevents the dish from becoming watery.
- You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper for more or less heat according to your taste.
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk as specified; you can also substitute with half-and-half if desired.
- Serve warm as a delicious side to steak, chicken, or fish for a classic steakhouse experience at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free