Description
Steakhouse-style creamed spinach gratin is a rich, cheesy, and comforting side dish made with tender spinach, creamy béchamel sauce, and a golden, bubbling cheese topping. Perfect alongside steak or as a luxurious standalone dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh spinach or 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 oz cream cheese or 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese (for topping)
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half until smooth and thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
- Stir in nutmeg (if using), salt, pepper, and cream cheese or heavy cream until melted and smooth.
- Fold in the drained spinach and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese and optional breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Frozen spinach works well—just thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture.
- Gruyère adds rich flavor, but mozzarella or cheddar are good alternatives.
- To make gluten-free, use GF flour or cornstarch in place of regular flour and ensure other ingredients are GF-certified.
- Make ahead by assembling and refrigerating unbaked gratin for up to 1 day.
- Use a mix of greens like kale or Swiss chard for variation—just cook and drain first.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
