If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy side dish that doesn’t require a ton of ingredients, look no further than this 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach! With just a few simple staples, you can transform fresh spinach into a creamy, savory dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Whether you’re short on time or just want to keep things easy, this recipe is a total game-changer. It’s rich, flavorful, and comes together in just 15 minutes—making it the ideal side for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Plus, with its creamy texture and vibrant green color, it’s a dish everyone will love. So, let’s dive in and make this super simple creamed spinach that’s as tasty as it is easy!
Table of Contents
Key Details of This 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach Recipe
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes. This simple 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach comes together quickly, with minimal prep required. Just chop the spinach and you’re good to go! |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes. The cooking time is short as the spinach wilts and combines easily with the creamy sauce. It’s a quick dish perfect for busy weeknights. |
| Total Time | 15 minutes. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a rich and creamy side dish ready to serve. A perfect option for a last-minute addition to any meal. |
| Servings | 4 servings. This 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach recipe serves four people, making it great for family meals or dinner parties. |
| Approximate Calories per Serving | 150–200 calories. Depending on the type of cream used and any variations, this dish remains a relatively light side while still being indulgent. |
Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Spinach | 2 cups | Fresh spinach is the base of this 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach recipe. It’s packed with nutrients and gives the dish its vibrant green color. Be sure to wash and chop it before cooking to ensure a smooth texture when creamed. |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup | Heavy cream is what gives the 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach its rich, velvety texture. You can substitute it with cream cheese for a slightly thicker, tangier version. If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can also use a lighter cream or milk. |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Butter adds a rich, creamy flavor to the 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. It helps sauté the spinach and creates a smooth base for the cream. For a lighter version, you can swap it with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative. |
These are the essential ingredients that come together to create a quick and delicious 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. The simplicity of these three ingredients makes it an easy dish to prepare, without sacrificing flavor or texture. However, if you’d like to experiment with different flavors, there are also some optional toppings and fillings you can add to take the dish to the next level!
Optional Toppings/Fillings for 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
While the classic version of 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is wonderfully simple and delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate the flavor and texture by adding a few optional toppings or fillings. These additions can be customized to suit your taste preferences and can transform this basic recipe into something even more special.
Parmesan Cheese
One of the best ways to add a rich, savory flavor to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is by sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. The salty, nutty taste of Parmesan perfectly complements the creamy spinach, giving it an extra layer of depth. You can also stir in some grated Parmesan directly into the sauce to enhance the flavor even more as it cooks.
Garlic
If you love the warm, aromatic taste of garlic, consider adding a clove or two to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. Simply mince the garlic and sauté it in the butter before adding the cream. This will infuse the dish with a subtle yet flavorful garlic taste that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the spinach. It’s a great option for anyone looking to add a little more complexity to their dish.
Nutmeg
A pinch of nutmeg can do wonders in adding a cozy, comforting warmth to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. Nutmeg works especially well in creamy dishes, and its slightly sweet, spicy flavor gives the spinach a delightful depth that enhances the overall taste. Be sure to use it sparingly—just a little goes a long way in this rich side dish.
Bacon or Pancetta
For a savory, crispy crunch, try adding crumbled bacon or pancetta to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. The salty, crispy bits of bacon add an irresistible texture contrast to the creamy spinach, while enhancing the dish’s overall flavor. This is a great option if you’re looking for a heartier version of the recipe or want to add some indulgence to your meal.
Cream Cheese
Although your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach already features heavy cream, swapping or adding cream cheese can make the dish even richer and creamier. By mixing in a bit of cream cheese, you’ll get an even thicker and velvety consistency. It also provides a tangy twist that complements the richness of the spinach and cream.
Lemon Zest
For a fresh burst of brightness, consider adding some lemon zest to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. The zest adds a hint of citrusy flavor that helps balance out the richness of the cream. It’s a fantastic way to cut through the heaviness of the dish and give it a light, refreshing touch. You can sprinkle it on top just before serving to preserve the fresh flavor.
Chili Flakes or Hot Sauce
If you like a little heat, adding a sprinkle of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce can give your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach a spicy kick. The heat works wonderfully with the creamy texture and adds an exciting contrast of flavors. Just be careful not to overpower the dish—start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
The first step in making your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is to prepare the spinach. Start by washing your fresh spinach thoroughly under cold running water. Spinach can sometimes carry dirt or grit, so it’s important to give it a good rinse to ensure it’s clean. After washing, gently pat the spinach dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial because excess water can affect the creaminess of your dish when you start cooking.
Once your spinach is dry, chop it into bite-sized pieces. You can choose to leave it in larger leaves if you prefer a chunkier texture, but finely chopped spinach will blend more seamlessly with the creamy sauce, giving you that velvety, smooth consistency that makes 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach so irresistible.
If you’re using frozen spinach as a substitute for fresh, be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any extra liquid to avoid making your creamed spinach too watery. Once your spinach is prepped, you’re ready to move on to the next steps, where the magic really happens!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic (Optional)
While garlic is an optional addition, it can really elevate the flavor of your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. Begin by heating a small amount of butter in your pan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add one clove of finely minced garlic. Stir the garlic gently to ensure it doesn’t burn.
As the garlic heats up, it will release a fragrant aroma that will infuse your dish with a rich, savory base. This step only takes about 1-2 minutes, so be careful not to overcook the garlic—it should just become fragrant and slightly golden. The garlic will add depth to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach, making the final dish even more flavorful and aromatic. Once the garlic is ready, you can proceed with adding your cream and spinach to continue building the creamy goodness.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
To create the rich, velvety base for your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach, start by adding the butter and heavy cream to your pan over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt fully before pouring in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture gently as it begins to come together, making sure the cream combines smoothly with the butter. If you’re using cream cheese, you can add it in now and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a thicker, more indulgent texture.
Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld and the consistency thicken slightly. If you prefer a richer and more decadent flavor, you can increase the amount of cream slightly. The key here is to let the sauce come together slowly so it’s creamy and luxurious, providing the perfect coating for your spinach in the next step. This creamy sauce is the heart of your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach, so take your time to get it just right!
If you want more inspiration on making creamy dishes, you might enjoy our recipe for 4 Ingredient Potato Soup, which also focuses on rich, creamy comfort food!
Step 4: Combine the Spinach
Once your creamy sauce is ready, it’s time to bring the magic together! Add the fresh, chopped spinach to the pan with the cream and butter mixture. Stir gently as you incorporate the spinach into the sauce. You’ll notice the spinach wilting almost immediately as it absorbs the rich, creamy sauce. Continue stirring for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach is fully wilted and tender, but still vibrant green. The spinach will shrink down significantly, and the sauce will thicken slightly, enveloping the spinach in a smooth, velvety coating.
Make sure to adjust the heat to medium-low to prevent the cream from separating. This step is where the flavors truly meld, creating the perfect balance of creaminess in your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. Keep stirring until everything is evenly combined, ensuring that every leaf of spinach is covered with that rich, creamy sauce. Once the spinach is fully incorporated and everything is well mixed, you’re ready to serve!
Tips for Perfect 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
When making 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach, the quality of your ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Since the recipe is so simple, relying on fresh, high-quality ingredients can elevate the taste significantly and make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of how to choose the best ingredients for this easy side dish:
- Fresh Spinach
Fresh spinach is the star of this dish, so it’s essential to choose vibrant, tender leaves. Look for spinach with deep green color and no signs of wilting or yellowing. Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully and has a more delicate texture compared to frozen spinach, which can sometimes become watery when cooked. If you do choose frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture that could affect the consistency of your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. - Heavy Cream or Cream Cheese
The creamy base of your dish is equally important. Heavy cream gives the 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach its luxurious texture and richness, but you can also substitute it with cream cheese for a thicker, tangier version. If you want a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream, but keep in mind that this might slightly change the overall creaminess. Opt for a full-fat version for the best results, as it will contribute to a smoother, velvety sauce. - Butter
Butter adds flavor and depth to the creamed spinach, bringing all the ingredients together with a rich, savory taste. Unsalted butter is ideal so that you can control the seasoning and ensure your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach isn’t too salty. The butter should be melted and added to the pan first to allow it to infuse its flavor into the cream and spinach.
Adjust the Creaminess
One of the great things about 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is how customizable the creaminess can be. Depending on your taste preferences, you can adjust the consistency to be as rich or light as you like. If you prefer a richer, more indulgent version, opt for heavy cream. This will give the dish a smooth and velvety texture that complements the fresh spinach beautifully. For an even creamier result, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese to the mixture. The cream cheese will add a tangy richness that elevates the flavor of the spinach.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lighter version of 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach, you can swap the heavy cream for a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or even whole milk. This will reduce the richness while still keeping the dish creamy. Additionally, for those who prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk or almond milk can serve as excellent substitutes, though they will add a slight change in flavor. Adjusting the creaminess is all about balancing your personal preference for texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment and find the perfect combination that works best for you!
Lastly, if you prefer your creamed spinach to have a thicker consistency, you can cook it a little longer, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken up. For a thinner, lighter sauce, simply add a splash more cream or milk as you cook to achieve your desired consistency. The beauty of this simple 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach recipe is that you can truly make it your own, tailoring the creaminess to suit your specific taste and dietary preferences.
Add Flavor Variations
While the beauty of this 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach lies in its simplicity, there are plenty of ways to elevate the flavor to suit your personal taste or to match different meals. Adding a few extra ingredients can transform this already delicious dish into something even more exciting.
1. Garlic and Onion
A quick and easy way to boost the flavor of your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is by adding garlic or onion. Sautéing minced garlic in the butter before adding the cream creates a fragrant base, giving your spinach a warm, aromatic touch. If you enjoy a bit more savory depth, consider adding finely chopped onions and cooking them until they’re soft and golden. This simple step can take your creamed spinach to the next level.
2. Parmesan Cheese
For a richer, more robust flavor, Parmesan cheese is a great addition. Simply sprinkle in a couple of tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan as the spinach wilts in the creamy sauce. The nutty, salty notes of Parmesan will beautifully complement the richness of the cream and enhance the overall taste of the 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. If you prefer a different cheese, a little cream cheese can also add extra creaminess and tang.
3. Nutmeg and Lemon Zest
Nutmeg is a classic seasoning often used in creamed spinach recipes, and just a pinch can work wonders in your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. It adds a warm, slightly sweet note that balances the richness of the cream. For a zesty contrast, a little lemon zest can brighten the dish and add a refreshing hint of citrus. Together, these ingredients create a deliciously sophisticated flavor profile that pairs beautifully with many main courses.
4. Spicy Kick with Red Pepper Flakes
If you like a little heat, red pepper flakes are an easy way to add a spicy kick to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes mixed into the creamy spinach will provide a nice balance to the richness of the dish. It’s the perfect way to bring in some warmth without overwhelming the natural flavors of the spinach.
5. Bacon or Ham
For a heartier, savory option, try adding crumbled bacon or diced ham to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach. The salty, smoky flavor of bacon complements the creamy spinach perfectly, and the added protein can turn this dish into a more substantial side. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can skip the meat and still achieve a flavorful dish with all the other seasonings and ingredients.
6. Fresh Herbs
To add a burst of freshness and color, consider stirring in some fresh herbs. Chopped fresh basil, parsley, or thyme can bring a fragrant, herby note to your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach, balancing out the richness of the cream. Fresh herbs also brighten up the dish visually, making it even more appetizing. Adding them just before serving will preserve their vibrant flavor and aroma.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach
Pairing with Main Dishes
One of the best things about 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is its versatility in the kitchen. This creamy, savory side dish can complement a wide variety of main courses, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or a more elaborate holiday spread, 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach adds a delicious, flavorful touch to any plate.
For a classic pairing, try serving 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach alongside grilled or roasted meats. The richness of the creamed spinach balances beautifully with the smoky flavor of grilled steak, chicken breasts, or roasted pork. The creamy texture helps to cut through the richness of meats, making it a harmonious combination.
If you’re preparing a seafood feast, you might want to complement your 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach with a flavorful sauce like the one in How To Make The Perfect Seafood Boil Sauce Recipe in 2025. This seafood boil sauce pairs wonderfully with the creamed spinach, creating a rich, savory combination that enhances both dishes.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach works wonderfully with fish dishes. Try pairing it with pan-seared salmon or baked cod. The subtle flavors of the fish are elevated by the smooth, creamy spinach, creating a delightful contrast that won’t overpower the main dish.
For those following a vegetarian or plant-based diet, 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach also makes a fantastic pairing with grain-based dishes like quinoa or farro. Its creamy texture and rich flavor provide the perfect contrast to the nuttiness of whole grains, making it a satisfying and balanced meal.
Finally, 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is a great side dish for holiday meals or festive occasions. It pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, prime rib, or even as part of a vegetarian holiday spread. The simplicity of the dish doesn’t compete with more complex main courses but instead enhances the overall meal, making it a go-to side for special occasions.
No matter the occasion or the main course, 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is the perfect side dish to add a touch of richness and elegance to your meal.
Ideal for Special Occasions
When it comes to special occasions, whether it’s a holiday dinner, family gathering, or a festive celebration, the right side dish can make all the difference. This 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is not only easy to prepare but also feels indulgent and luxurious, making it the perfect addition to any special meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor provide a comforting contrast to heavier main courses like roasted meats, grilled steaks, or even a baked ham.
What makes this 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach so ideal for occasions is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated preparation. The minimalism of the recipe allows you to focus on the main event of the meal while still offering something that looks and tastes impressive. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a birthday gathering, or any special event, this dish will impress your guests without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.
The vibrant green spinach, combined with a creamy base, adds color and sophistication to your plate. You can even dress it up by adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or a dash of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor. This easy side dish will elevate any meal, leaving guests thinking you’ve spent far more time on it than you actually did. So, next time you’re preparing for a special occasion, consider making 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach—it’s the perfect, stress-free way to add a little extra flair to your celebrations.
Meal Prep Idea
One of the best things about this 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is how easy it is to incorporate into your meal prep routine. This dish not only tastes amazing fresh but also holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it the perfect side dish to prepare in advance. By making a larger batch of 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach, you can have a healthy, flavorful addition to your meals throughout the week, whether you’re preparing lunch or dinner.
To make it ahead, simply follow the recipe as usual, allowing the spinach to wilt into the creamy sauce. Once the dish is ready, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the best part is, the flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier the next day!
When you’re ready to serve, you can reheat the 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If it’s a little thicker than you’d like after refrigerating, simply stir in a splash of extra cream or water to loosen it up. This makes it a super convenient option for busy days when you need a quick, healthy side to accompany your main dish.
Meal prepping with 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach not only saves you time but also ensures that you have a nutrient-packed, satisfying vegetable side ready to go. Whether you’re pairing it with chicken, steak, or even a vegetarian main course, this dish makes any meal feel complete with minimal effort.
The Final Scoop: Why 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is a Must-Try
In conclusion, this 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and convenience. With just three basic ingredients, you can create a dish that’s creamy, savory, and downright delicious. It’s an excellent side dish that works well for both everyday meals and special occasions, and with minimal preparation time, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something that tastes as good as it looks.
What makes this recipe truly stand out is its versatility. You can tweak the creaminess to your liking, add extra flavors like garlic or Parmesan, and even incorporate it into your meal prep routine. The fact that it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days makes it a practical addition to your kitchen repertoire. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach recipe is an approachable and rewarding dish to add to your list.
So why not give it a try? With its rich texture, vibrant color, and mouthwatering taste, this 3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy it with your favorite mains, pair it with a holiday feast, or simply indulge in its creamy goodness for a quick weeknight dinner. Whatever the occasion, this dish will never disappoint!
Sounds great plz text me more
Thank you! I’m glad you like the recipe. I’ll be happy to share more delicious ideas