Creamed Spinach

This is heavenly. Wonderful comfort food, and a kid pleaser! My kids wolf this down and ask for seconds. We eat this with just about any cajun dish, but it’s also good with pasta dishes.

[Updated February 6, 2009]

Equipment

2 to 3 quart/liter glass baking dish, lightly coated with cooking spray
large saute pan

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, minced
6 cloves garlic, chopped
2 pounds (~1 kilo) frozen spinach, thawed and well drained (or 3 pounds/1.5 kilos fresh spinach, washed, stemmed and finely chopped)
sea salt
fresh ground black pepper
2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
8 ounces (227 g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F/175° C.

2. In the large saute pan, melt the butter. Add onions and cook over medium to medium-high heat until onions start to caramelize. Add the garlic and saute until garlic starts to turn golden.

3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the spinach and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Saute for 3 or 4 minutes. Add the cream. Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, until the cream thickens.

4. Remove from heat and transfer into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the top with cheese and place in the oven. Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes or until cheese is slightly brown and bubbly.

Variations

Saute 4 ounces (113 g) of sliced white mushrooms with the onion and garlic.