Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe
Unlock culinary bliss with our Ruth's Chris Creamed Spinach recipe! Dive into the decadence with step-by-step instructions. A steakhouse classic at your fingertips!
- Publisher: Crisp Recipe
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Side Dish
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 280 calories
Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach
Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach is one of those iconic dishes that perfectly captures the indulgent spirit of classic American steakhouse sides. Rooted in Southern comfort but elevated with a touch of elegance, this creamed spinach has become a fan favorite for good reason—rich, velvety, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that turns simple greens into something unforgettable.
The magic starts with fresh spinach leaves, wilted down to a silky softness. What really sets this dish apart is the creamy sauce—made with heavy cream, butter, and a blend of cheeses, usually Parmesan or a mild cheddar—that coats every leaf with a luscious, decadent hug. Garlic and a hint of nutmeg often sneak in to add warmth and depth, balancing the richness with subtle aromatic notes.
When you dig in, the creamed spinach feels like a buttery, dreamy cloud, smooth and comforting with just the right amount of body from the spinach. It’s creamy without being overly thick or gluey, and that gentle garlicky bite keeps it from feeling one-dimensional. The flavor is cozy and savory, with the fresh green brightness of spinach shining through the creamy blanket. Honestly, it’s one of those sides that makes you want to savor every bite, pairing perfectly with a juicy steak or roasted chicken.
Usually served piping hot in a small cast-iron skillet or bowl, it’s the ultimate accompaniment to a hearty meal. If you happen to have leftovers (though that rarely happens), just store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove to avoid breaking the creaminess. It’s not the healthiest dish out there—heavy cream and butter add plenty of richness and calories—but it’s a satisfying treat when you want to indulge a little.
Some cooks like to tweak the classic by adding crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of grated nutmeg for extra warmth, or swapping out some of the cream for Greek yogurt to lighten it up without losing the luscious texture. Whatever the variation, the heart of Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach is that perfect balance of fresh greens wrapped in luxurious cream.
If you’re craving that restaurant-quality creamy spinach vibe at home, check out the recipe below—you’ll get all the indulgence without the fancy dinner bill.
Recipe
Indulge in the creamy ecstasy of Ruth's Chris Creamed Spinach! Elevate your dining experience with this luxurious side, a perfect steakhouse companion. Discover the recipe here!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 pounds fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg for flavor
Method Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and butter. Stir continuously to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring a smooth consistency. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it fully melts into the cream mixture. This adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir and cook until the spinach wilts and combines with the cream sauce.
- Season the creamed spinach with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
- Let the creamed spinach simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cream to further thicken.
- Once the creamed spinach reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Recipe Video
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Recipe Tags: Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach, Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe, Recipe
Servings
To serve Ruth's Chris Creamed Spinach, follow these steps for an elegant presentation:
- Presentation Dish: Transfer the creamed spinach to a stylish serving dish. Choose a bowl or platter that complements your table setting.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish the creamed spinach with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a few whole spinach leaves for a touch of visual appeal.
- Temperature: Serve the creamed spinach hot, taking advantage of its creamy texture and rich flavors. This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking.
- Accompaniment: Ruth's Chris Creamed Spinach pairs exceptionally well with steak, making it a classic side dish at the steakhouse. However, it's versatile and can also accompany other main courses or stand alone as a luxurious vegetarian option.
- Individual Servings: If you prefer, you can also present the creamed spinach in individual serving dishes or ramekins for a more personalized touch.
- Side Dish: Consider serving the creamed spinach alongside other complementary sides, creating a well-rounded and visually appealing meal.
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. Ensure the onions and Parmesan cheese are also fresh to enhance the overall quality of the dish.
- Proper Seasoning: Taste the creamed spinach as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. The nutmeg adds a subtle depth, so start with a pinch and add more if desired.
- Consistent Stirring: Stir the cream sauce consistently to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, velvety texture. This is crucial when incorporating the flour to create the roux.
- Parmesan Quality: Opt for high-quality Parmesan cheese for a richer and more authentic taste. Freshly grated Parmesan typically provides better flavor than pre-packaged alternatives.
- Serve Immediately: Creamed spinach is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it immediately after cooking to maintain its creamy consistency.
- Pairing Suggestions: While it's a classic side for steak, don't hesitate to experiment with pairing. It complements a variety of main dishes, including chicken or fish, and can even be enjoyed on its own as a luxurious vegetarian option.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe to your preferences. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or adjust the quantity of Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare certain components in advance, like chopping onions or washing and trimming the spinach, to streamline the cooking process.
Ingredient Substitutes
Here are few substitute suggestions for your Ruth's Chris Creamed Spinach:
- Heavy Cream: If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part or all of the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that this may alter the richness of the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: If Parmesan is unavailable or you prefer a milder flavor, you can use Pecorino Romano or a blend of Parmesan and Romano cheeses. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.
- Butter: While butter is a key component for flavor, you can use a mild olive oil or a combination of oil and butter to sauté the onions.
- Flour: If you have dietary restrictions or prefer a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute for regular flour.
- Spinach: While fresh spinach is recommended, you can use frozen spinach as a substitute. Thaw and drain it well before incorporating it into the cream sauce. The texture may vary slightly, but it remains a viable option.
Remarks
Bring the sizzle of Ruth's Chris to your home with this Creamed Spinach masterpiece. Elevate every meal with a touch of steakhouse luxury. Bon appétit!