When the craving for comfort food strikes, nothing quite compares to a creamy, rich side dish like Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach. Picture this: fresh spinach leaves glistening in a velvety sauce, flecked with aromatic garlic and just a hint of nutmeg. This dish isn’t just about indulgence; it brings a bright, vibrant twist to your mealtime that leaves traditional fast-food options in the dust.
I first tried this irresistible creamed spinach at a dinner with friends, and since then, it has become my go-to recipe whenever I want to add a touch of elegance to a weeknight meal. Whether you’re preparing for a special gathering or simply looking to elevate a casual dinner, this dish is a sure-fire crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up! Let’s dive into the creamy goodness that can transform your ordinary spinach into a restaurant-quality delight right in your own kitchen!
Why is Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach So Special?
Creamy, Luxurious Texture: The rich combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a velvety smooth dish that’s impossible to resist.
Flavor-Packed: With hints of fragrant garlic and nutmeg, each bite is a flavor explosion that elevates any meal.
Quick Preparation: Whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect side for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties alike.
Versatile Pairing: Whether served with steak, grilled chicken, or even as a standalone delight, this dish complements a variety of main courses beautifully.
Healthy Twist: Packed with fresh spinach, this recipe offers a nutritious boost, ensuring that you indulge guilt-free.
Transform your meals with this incredible recipe or check out other delicious sides in the side dish section for more inspiration!
Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Ingredients
For the Creamy Base
• Fresh spinach – 2 pounds, packed; a vibrant, nutritious foundation for your dish.
• Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons; adds richness and depth of flavor.
• Yellow onion – ½ cup, finely diced; brings sweetness and complexity to the mix.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; enhances the overall flavor with aromatic notes.
• All-purpose flour – 3 tablespoons; helps thicken the sauce for a luxurious texture.
For the Creamy Mixture
• Heavy cream – 2 cups; creates that signature rich mouthfeel synonymous with Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach.
• Whole milk – ½ cup; adds smoothness and balances the richness of the heavy cream.
For the Flavor Boost
• Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, plus extra for topping; delivers a salty, savory kick.
• Grated nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon, freshly grated preferred; just a hint adds warmth and complexity.
• Salt – to taste; enhances all the flavors, so adjust as needed.
• Black pepper – to taste, freshly ground preferred; brings a touch of heat and enhances the overall flavor profile.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re just steps away from enjoying an upscale side dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests!
How to Make Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
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Wash the spinach thoroughly in a large bowl of cold water to remove dirt and grit. Drain it well in a colander. For mature spinach leaves, carefully remove thick stems and roughly chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
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Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until you can smell the fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen.
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Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the roux turns a pale golden color and emits a slightly nutty scent.
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Pour in the heavy cream slowly while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Once fully mixed, gradually add the whole milk and whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Simmer the sauce on medium-low heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until it has thickened slightly and has a rich, creamy texture.
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Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and stir gently to coat it in the creamy mixture. Cook until the spinach wilts completely and becomes tender, about 5-7 minutes.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly grated nutmeg until the cheese melts into the sauce and is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
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Season the creamed spinach with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with about a teaspoon of salt and a ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting to your preference.
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Serve the creamed spinach immediately while it’s hot and creamy. For an extra touch, garnish with more grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of extra nutmeg for a pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
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Fridge: Store any leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure it cools before sealing to prevent condensation.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamed spinach in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portioning it into smaller containers can make reheating easier.
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Reheating: Thaw the frozen creamed spinach in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.
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Serving Tip: This delightful dish is best served fresh, but with proper storage, Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach can easily be enjoyed later without sacrificing quality.
Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Variations
Feel free to play around with this delectable creamed spinach recipe to make it your own and tantalize your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream and milk for coconut milk and a dairy-free cream cheese for a creamy, rich alternative.
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Cheesy Twist: Add crumbled blue cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy flavor that adds depth and intrigue to the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic for a zesty, spicy version that packs a punch.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty richness, enhancing the overall texture.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil at the end of cooking for a fresh, aromatic twist that complements the creamy base beautifully.
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Mushroom Medley: Toss in sautéed mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor that melds perfectly with the spinach.
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Smoky Touch: Mix in some smoked paprika for a bold and intriguing flavor profile that will surprise and charm your guests.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with olive oil and use cashew cream instead of dairy, creating a plant-based delight that everyone can enjoy!
Expert Tips for Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
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Choose Fresh Spinach: Always opt for fresh spinach over frozen for a vibrant color and rich flavor in your Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach.
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Avoid Lumps: When adding heavy cream, whisk continuously to prevent any lumps from forming in your creamy sauce.
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Timing is Key: Don’t overcook the spinach! It should be just wilted and tender, typically 5-7 minutes, ensuring it retains some texture.
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Nutmeg Nuance: Use freshly grated nutmeg for a more aromatic flavor boost; avoid pre-ground nutmeg as it can lose its potency.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper right before serving, as these will enhance the delicious layers of flavor in the dish.
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Topping Tip: For an irresistible finish, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added depth and visual appeal.
What to Serve with Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach?
Create a delightful dinner that will leave everyone satisfied and eager for more!
- Grilled Steak: A juicy steak pairs beautifully with the creamy spinach, creating a classic steakhouse dinner experience.
- Roasted Chicken: The tender, savory flavors of roast chicken complement the richness of the creamed spinach perfectly, enhancing your meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch, making it delightful for scooping up that delicious creamed spinach.
- Quinoa Salad: A fresh quinoa salad with vibrant veggies adds textural contrast while introducing lightness that balances the creaminess of the dish.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a wholesome, satisfying base to enjoy with rich servings of creamed spinach.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the flavors without overpowering them, making it a wonderful companion for your meal.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a sweet and creamy finish that rounds out the meal beautifully.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts add earthy flavors that complement the dish and enhance your plate’s aesthetic.
Make Ahead Options
Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy base (steps 2-8) up to 24 hours in advance. After cooking, allow the creamed spinach to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, then season if needed. To maintain its creamy texture, avoid overheating and consider adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much during reheating. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort right at home!
Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh spinach, look for vibrant, deep green leaves without any dark spots or yellowing. The leaves should be firm and crisp to the touch. If you’re purchasing pre-packaged spinach, ensure the package is cold and check for any signs of wilting. If you find any thick stems, simply remove them before preparing your creamed spinach.
How should I store leftover Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach?
You can store any leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow it to cool before sealing the container to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture!
Can I freeze Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach?
Certainly! To freeze your creamed spinach, first allow it to cool completely. Then, spoon it into a freezer-safe container, portioning it into smaller amounts if you prefer individual servings. Be sure to label your containers with the date. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm on the stove, stirring in a bit of cream or milk to restore its richness.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen creamed spinach?
The best way to reheat frozen Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach is by transferring it from the freezer to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, pour it into a saucepan and heat over low heat, stirring gently. As it warms, consider adding a little splash of milk or cream to revive its creamy consistency. This method ensures that the dish remains smooth and delicious!
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very much! If you’re gluten-sensitive, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor without dairy. Always adjust seasonings accordingly to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
How do I prevent the creamed spinach from being too watery?
To ensure your Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach isn’t too watery, make sure to thoroughly wash and dry your spinach before adding it to the sauce. Excess water can dilute the creamy mixture. Additionally, cook the spinach until it’s wilted but avoid overcooking, which can release too much moisture. If you find it is still too watery after cooking, let it simmer a little longer to help thicken the sauce.
Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach: A Cozy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the spinach thoroughly in a large bowl of cold water to remove dirt and grit. Drain it well in a colander. For mature spinach leaves, carefully remove thick stems and roughly chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until you can smell the fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the roux turns a pale golden color and emits a slightly nutty scent.
- Pour in the heavy cream slowly while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Once fully mixed, gradually add the whole milk and whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Simmer the sauce on medium-low heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until it has thickened slightly and has a rich, creamy texture.
- Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and stir gently to coat it in the creamy mixture. Cook until the spinach wilts completely and becomes tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly grated nutmeg until the cheese melts into the sauce and is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Season the creamed spinach with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with about a teaspoon of salt and a ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting to your preference.
- Serve the creamed spinach immediately while it’s hot and creamy. For an extra touch, garnish with more grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
