As I was flipping through some old recipe cards, I stumbled upon a cherished family favorite—a creamy, dreamy side dish that turns ordinary spinach into a luxurious treat: Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Bake. The first whiff of sautéed garlic and onions ignites a world of comforting memories, reminding me of joyful dinners and shared laughter around the table.

This vibrant dish is more than just a side; it elevates any meal, whether it’s paired with a perfectly grilled steak or served as the star of a cozy vegetarian feast. With its silky texture and cheesy topping, this recipe is a game-changer—even for those who think they don’t like spinach!

What’s even better? It’s family-friendly, gluten-free, and can be made ahead of time, easing the stress of busy weeknights or festive gatherings. So grab your apron, and let’s turn humble spinach into a delicious masterpiece that’ll win hearts and taste buds alike!

Why Will You Love Creamed Spinach Bake?

Rich, Creamy Indulgence: This dish transforms simple spinach into a velvety delight that will impress even the toughest critics at your table.
Family-Friendly: It’s a guaranteed hit for all ages, making dining a joyous occasion without complaints.
Versatile Pairing: Perfect alongside everything from steak to your favorite veggie dishes, like Delightful Strawberry Spinach.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it in advance and simply broil before serving, which is ideal for those hectic evenings.
Gluten-Free Option: Everyone can enjoy this recipe, accommodating special diets without sacrificing flavor.

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this irresistible Creamed Spinach Bake that will leave everyone begging for seconds!

Creamed Spinach Bake Ingredients

• To create this delightful Creamed Spinach Bake, gather the following essentials:

For the Base

Butter – Adds rich flavor; margarine can substitute for a dairy-free version.
Olive Oil – Enhances flavor during sautéing; can use any neutral oil instead.
Onion – Brings sweetness and depth; shallots make a milder alternative.
Garlic – Adds aromatic essence; use garlic powder in a pinch (1/8 teaspoon).

For the Sauce

Flour – Thickens the sauce; swap with gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry for a gluten-free option.
Milk – Creamy base for the sauce; consider plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
Heavy Cream – Enhances the creaminess; replace with half-and-half for a lighter take.
Cream Cheese – Adds body and richness; omit for a lighter spin.

For the Spinach

Fresh Spinach – The star ingredient, delivering flavor and nutrition; thawed frozen spinach works too (just squeeze out excess water).

For the Topping

Shredded Cheese (Parmesan, Gruyère, White Cheddar) – Provides a cheesy crust; mix different cheeses for a complex flavor.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to suit your taste.
Nutmeg – Adds warmth; omit if you prefer a simpler flavor.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set for a creamy experience that will turn any meal into a celebration!

How to Make Creamed Spinach Bake

Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat—it should take about 2 minutes. This creates a luscious base for your sauce.
Sauté Aromatics: Add finely chopped onion to the saucepan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Stir in minced garlic for an additional minute, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Create the Roux: Sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth roux, which will thicken your sauce beautifully.
Build the Creamy Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by heavy cream and cream cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until thickened to a luxurious consistency (about 2-3 minutes).
Incorporate Spinach: Reduce heat to low, adding the spinach in batches. Stir until it wilts, taking just 1-2 minutes per batch to ensure it’s perfectly blended.
Add Cheese: Gently stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted, then adjust seasoning to match your palate’s desire for flavor.
Prepare for Broiling: Transfer the creamy spinach mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, ensuring an even layer for that golden crust.
Broil to Perfection: Broil the dish for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, then serve it warm to experience its rich, indulgent goodness.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Creamed Spinach Bake

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!

Cottage Cheese: Swap cream cheese for cottage cheese for a protein boost and a slightly tangy flavor.
Add the cottage cheese after heating the sauce for a smooth incorporation, resulting in a rich yet lighter dish.
White Cheddar: Use white cheddar for a sharper, more robust flavor complete with a golden crust.
This adds an extra depth that’s perfect for cheese lovers and elevates the entire dish to new gourmet heights!
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free delight.
Using these alternatives captures the same creaminess while ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a zesty touch.
This variation transforms a traditional dish into a lively and bold experience that can excite your taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh or dried herbs like thyme, basil, or dill for a fragrant twist.
These aromatic additions can enhance the flavor profile and brighten the dish, making it stand out at any table.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and rich, nutty essence.
This textural twist introduces a new layer of comfort, offering contrast to the creamy base.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic content by using roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
This variation provides a deeper, caramelized aroma that elevates the overall taste experience.
Frozen Spinach: For convenience, use thawed frozen spinach instead of fresh.
Just make sure to squeeze out any excess water; this swap can save time without sacrificing flavor!

Storage Tips for Creamed Spinach Bake

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the creamed spinach bake fresh while preserving its delicious flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your creamed spinach bake for up to 1 month. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream. This helps revive its creamy texture and flavor, making it taste like fresh!

What to Serve with Creamed Spinach Bake?

Bring your dinner to life with these perfect pairings that enhance the creamy richness of this delightful dish.

Grilled Steak: The robust flavors of a perfectly grilled steak complement the creamy spinach, creating a classic steakhouse experience right at home.
Roast Chicken: Juicy roast chicken pairs beautifully, as its savory notes balance the richness of the creamed spinach, making every bite enjoyable.
Crispy Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as a delightful tool for scooping up creamy bites, adding a satisfying texture contrast.
Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad brings a refreshing element, offering bright flavors that cut through the creaminess while providing a nutritious boost.
Baked Salmon: The delicate flavor of baked salmon matches the smooth texture of creamed spinach, enriching your meal with protein-packed goodness.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes will echo the texture of the spinach bake, creating a homey comfort that every family will love.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies will not only enhance the meal’s visual appeal but also bring a touch of sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, chilled white wine can elevate your dining experience, balancing the richness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.

These pairings promise to turn your meal into a memorable and heartwarming occasion!

Expert Tips for Creamed Spinach Bake

Well-Drained Spinach: Always ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained if using frozen. This prevents a watery texture in your creamed spinach bake.
Cheese Variety: Mixing cheeses like Gruyère and Parmesan not only deepens flavor but creates a richer topping that everyone’s sure to love.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare your dish to the point before broiling, then refrigerate. Simply broil it fresh before serving for an effortless family meal.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Seasoning can vary with your palate, especially with ingredients like salt and nutmeg, ensuring your creamed spinach bake is just right.

Creamed Spinach Bake Recipe FAQs

What type of spinach is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is ideal for a vibrant flavor and texture. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thoroughly thaw and squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery dish.

How can I store leftover Creamed Spinach Bake?
To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld nicely, making it just as delicious when you reheat it!

Can I freeze Creamed Spinach Bake?
Yes, you can! Wrap your cooled Creamed Spinach Bake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Gradually whisk in a little more milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency. Just heat gently to blend it well; this will make it silky and smooth again.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Very! You can substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk and use dairy-free cream cheese. Just ensure to replace the butter with margarine or a dairy-free alternative as well.

Is this recipe safe for my pets?
I advise caution! Spinach can be unhealthy for some pets if they have certain conditions, especially oxalate sensitivity. So be sure to keep it away from your furry friends!