If you’re looking for the perfect side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, you’ve found it! This Steakhouse Creamed Spinach with Gruyere Cheese recipe is a family favorite that pairs perfectly with weeknight meals and it's great for special occasions.
If you love spinach, be sure to check out our Copycat Panera Spinach and Bacon Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing and our Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip without Mayo!
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Steakhouse creamed spinach is a classic side dish often served in high-end restaurants. It’s known for its rich, creamy texture and the delightful combination of fresh spinach with a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish can transform a simple meal into a gourmet experience, making it a favorite among families and food lovers.
If you like this side dish, you may also love our Cheesy Roasted Asparagus with Gruyere or our Creamy Lemon Risotto with Parmesan and White Wine.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The blend of Gruyere and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses creates an irresistibly creamy texture.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Spinach: Packed with nutrients, this dish adds a healthy touch to any meal.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with various main courses, from steak to chicken.
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Ingredients
- Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the salt level in the dish.
- All-Purpose Flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce.
- Whole Milk: Adds a rich, creamy base to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Improves the creaminess and richness of the dish.
- Gruyere Cheese: Provides a smooth, nutty flavor.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Adds a sharp, savory note.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma.
- Nutmeg: A touch of nutmeg brings warmth and complexity.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- Spinach: You can use frozen spinach if fresh is not available. Thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
- Gruyere Cheese: Swap with Swiss cheese for a similar flavor.
- Diet-Friendly: Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.
- Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
How to Make Steakhouse Creamed Spinach with Gruyere
STEP ONE: Make the Roux
In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes, forming a smooth, golden roux.
STEP TWO: Build the Cream Sauce
Gradually, whisk in milk and cream. Once thickened, stir in Gruyere and Parmigiano Reggiano until melted and smooth.
STEP THREE: Season and Add Spinach
Add nutmeg, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir in fresh, coarsely chopped spinach by handfuls until fully wilted and coated in the creamy sauce.
STEP FOUR: Simmer and Serve
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to bring everything together. Serve warm as a comforting side dish.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Whisk cream in slowly. Gradual addition keeps your sauce lump-free and velvety.
❌ DO NOT Cook the sauce on high heat. It will scorch or break. Keep it at medium or lower once dairy is added.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy consistency.
Recipe FAQs
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach is a rich and creamy side dish commonly served in steakhouses. It features fresh spinach cooked in a creamy béchamel sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and often includes garlic, onions, and nutmeg. Sometimes cheese, such as Parmesan, is added for extra flavor.
Yes, you can prepare steakhouse creamed spinach a day in advance. After making the dish, let it cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat before serving.
Steakhouse creamed spinach pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Serve it with a juicy ribeye steak, roasted chicken, or grilled salmon.
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📖 Recipe
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach with Gruyere Cheese
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh spinach coarsely chopped
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese grated
- ¼ cup Parmigiano Reggiano grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- pinch red pepper flakes
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, just until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes, forming a smooth, golden roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring until the mixture is completely smooth and starts to thicken—about 3 to 4 minutes. Add in the Gruyere and Parmigiano Reggiano. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is rich and velvety.
- Stir in the nutmeg, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add the fresh coarsely chopped spinach by large handfuls, stirring after each addition. Continue until all of the spinach is wilted and fully coated in the cheese sauce—this takes about 3 to 4 minutes total.
- Let the mixture simmer gently for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve warm as a creamy side dish.
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Notes
- Spinach: You can use frozen spinach if fresh is not available. Thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
- Gruyere Cheese: Swap with Swiss cheese for a similar flavor.
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