There’s something undeniably comforting about a velvety side dish that transforms any meal into a celebration of flavour. Among the pantheon of classic steakhouse accompaniments, Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach stands out as a timeless favorite-rich, indulgent, and effortlessly elegant. But what if you could bring this savory masterpiece from the restaurant right into your own kitchen? In this article, we’ll unlock the secrets behind Ruth’s Chris legendary creamed spinach recipe, revealing the simple yet artful techniques that create it’s luscious texture and deep, satisfying flavor.Whether your a seasoned home cook or a curious foodie, get ready to elevate your dinner table with a dish that’s as iconic as it is irresistible.
Unlock Ruth Chris’ Creamed Spinach invites you on a culinary journey through a rich tradition that has made this dish a beloved classic across generations. Originating from humble beginnings as a simple spinach preparation, Ruth’s Chris elevated it into an indulgent, velvety accompaniment that pairs exquisitely with steak and other hearty mains. This timeless side offers a luxurious balance of creamy texture and vibrant green freshness, making every bite deeply satisfying and reassuringly familiar. As a Culinary Content Creator and Food Stylist, I’ve found that mastering this recipe unlocks a new recognition for comfort food with an elevated twist, and the secret lies in the harmony of key ingredients and technique.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 as a rich side dish
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – approachable for confident home cooks and tasty for all skill levels
Key Ingredients That Elevate This Timeless Side Dish
- 2 pounds fresh baby spinach – washed and trimmed to maintain freshness and vibrant color
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - the silky base that adds richness
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced – adds mild sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for inviting aroma and warmth
- 1 cup heavy cream - the creaminess that defines the dish’s luxurious mouthfeel
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharpness that balances the cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – for creating the perfect smooth, thickened sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste, for seasoning
- Freshly grated nutmeg (optional) – adds a nuanced warm spice that complements the spinach beautifully
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Creamed Spinach Every Time
- wilt the spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the fresh spinach in batches. Cover with a lid and let it steam for 2-3 minutes until wholly wilted. Transfer to a colander; press gently to remove excess water. Chop roughly and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent and tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently.
- Create the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, ensuring the mixture turns slightly golden but doesn’t brown.
- Add cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking over low heat until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes, stirring regularly for smooth consistency.
- Incorporate spinach and cheese: Stir in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until cheese melts and the mixture is combined, heated through, and creamy.
- Season it just right: Taste and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg if desired.Adjust seasoning gradually and stir to evenly distribute.
- Final touch and serve: Remove from heat and let sit for 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or a few toasted pine nuts for a textural contrast.
Expert Tips for Customizing the Recipe to Your Taste
- For lighter creaminess: Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or use half-and-half without sacrificing too much richness.
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast as an alternative to Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version that still offers umami depth.
- Texture variation: If you prefer a smoother finish, purée the creamed spinach briefly with an immersion blender before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to introduce subtle heat and smoky complexity.
- Advance prep advice: prepare the creamed spinach a day ahead,cool completely,and reheat gently on low heat. Stir in an extra splash of cream to refresh the consistency.
- Turn it into a main: Stir in cooked quinoa or chickpeas for added protein and substance, making it a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Serving Suggestions
This creamed spinach shines alongside grilled or roasted beef, perfectly complementing the savory richness with its creamy and fresh profile. For a stunning plate, serve it in a shallow white bowl to showcase the vibrant green and creamy texture. Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper, a sprinkle of Parmesan shards, or toasted almonds for a delightful crunch. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness,or serve with roasted garlic mashed potatoes for a decadent comfort feast.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
For a deeper dive on side dishes perfect for steak night, check out our Best Steak Side Dishes. to explore the nutritional benefits of spinach and how it supports a healthy diet, visit the Medical News Today Spinach Overview.
Q&A
Q&A: Unlock Ruth Chris’ Creamed Spinach - A Savory Classic Recipe
Q1: What makes Ruth Chris’ Creamed Spinach so irresistibly delicious?
A1: The magic lies in the creamy, buttery texture with just the right balance of garlic and nutty Parmesan. It’s a velvety blend that manages to highlight the natural earthiness of spinach while inviting every bite to melt in your mouth.The slow simmering and careful seasoning transform simple ingredients into a rich, comforting classic.
Q2: Can I recreate this creamed spinach at home with everyday ingredients?
A2: Absolutely! Ruth Chris’ creamed spinach can be made with fresh or frozen spinach, butter, cream, garlic, and a sprinkle of nutmeg or white pepper. Freshly grated Parmesan or a melty cheese like Gruyère can elevate the flavor. The key is gentle cooking and patience to achieve that luscious, smooth texture.
Q3: What’s the secret to achieving that perfect creamy consistency?
A3: Low and slow wins the race here. Start by sautéing garlic in butter, then gradually add cream and cheese, stirring constantly. This combination thickens naturally without needing heavy flour-based roux. It’s important to avoid overcooking the spinach so it stays tender yet bright green.
Q4: Is it possible to make this dish healthier without losing its signature creaminess?
A4: Definitely! You can swap heavy cream with a mix of half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free twist. Incorporating a bit of pureed cauliflower or white beans can add creaminess and fiber. Just maintain the savory seasoning and cheese to keep that indulgent flavor.
Q5: How does creamed spinach complement Ruth Chris’ famous steak dishes?
A5: Creamed spinach offers a rich, creamy counterpoint to the robust, charred flavors of a perfectly grilled steak. Its savory depth and subtle sweetness balance the meat’s intensity, making every bite a harmonious dance of textures and flavors on your palate.
Q6: Can I add any special twists to personalize this classic recipe?
A6: For sure! consider adding finely chopped sautéed shallots or a touch of roasted garlic for an extra flavor punch. A hint of freshly grated lemon zest can brighten the richness without overwhelming it. For a unique texture, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or crushed black pepper on top just before serving.
Q7: What’s the best way to store leftover creamed spinach?
A7: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating,do so gently over low heat,stirring frequently,and add a splash of cream or milk to restore the silky consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power,which can cause separation.
Q8: Can this creamed spinach be made vegan or lactose-free?
A8: Yes! Use plant-based butter and a creamy alternative such as cashew cream or oat milk. Nutritional yeast can stand in for Parmesan,providing a cheesy umami note. With thoughtful ingredient swaps, you can enjoy the same comforting, savory sensation in a dairy-free version.
Unlocking the secrets behind Ruth Chris’ Creamed Spinach invites you to savor a dish both timeless and adaptable-a true culinary treasure with every luxurious spoonful.
The Way Forward
As you wrap up your culinary adventure with Ruth’s Chris’ creamed spinach, you’ll realize this savory classic is more than just a side dish-it’s a celebration of rich flavors and timeless comfort. Whether served alongside a perfectly seared steak or enjoyed on its own,this creamy delight brings a touch of restaurant elegance right into your kitchen. So go ahead, unlock the secret to this beloved recipe, and let each bite remind you that sometimes, the simplest ingredients come together to create the most unforgettable meals.
