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The Easiest Creamed Spinach with Gruyere Recipe

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4.2 from 61 reviews

A rich and creamy creamed spinach recipe enhanced with nutty Gruyere cheese and topped with a crispy, buttery panko breadcrumb crust infused with fresh thyme. This comforting side dish comes together quickly, perfect for bringing elegance and flavor to any meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Spinach

  • 20 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed

Cream Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 shallots, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups heavy cream, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 3/4 cup finely grated Gruyere cheese

Topping

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the spinach: Drain the thawed spinach thoroughly in a colander. Use paper towels to wring out as much moisture as possible. If the spinach pieces are large, roughly chop them with a sharp knife. Set aside.
  2. Make the topping: In a small skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add fresh thyme leaves and cook for 30 seconds to release their aroma. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder, tossing to coat well in the butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the breadcrumbs turn a golden brown color. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
  3. Sauté the shallots and garlic: In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced shallots and sliced garlic. Cook while stirring frequently until the shallots become soft but do not brown, preserving their delicate flavor.
  4. Reduce the cream: Increase heat to medium. Switch to a whisk and slowly add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 to 6 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped spinach and season with salt. Let it simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Finish: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the grated Gruyere cheese until melted and incorporated. Sprinkle the prepared toasted breadcrumb topping over the creamed spinach. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of creamy spinach and crunchy topping.

Notes

  • Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the spinach to prevent a watery dish.
  • The panko breadcrumb topping adds a wonderful crunch and flavor contrast.
  • Gruyere cheese adds a nutty, creamy depth but can be substituted with Emmental or Swiss cheese if unavailable.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or grilled seafood.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the texture will be less rich.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/the-easiest-creamed-spinach-with-gruyere-recipe/