Ingredients
Paula Deen, a name synonymous with Southern cooking, offers a recipe that is both comforting and indulgent: her Creamy Spinach Delight. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 packages of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella cheese for topping
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
- Begin by thawing the spinach. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, ensure it is well-drained. You can press out excess water using a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
Step 2: Cook the Spinach
- In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the spinach to the pan, stirring to coat with the garlic butter. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach is warm through.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
- In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth. If needed, you can warm the cream cheese slightly to make mixing easier.
- Pour this creamy mixture over the spinach, stirring gently to combine. If you like a hint of spice, add a pinch of nutmeg now.
Step 4: Season and Cook
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes on low heat, letting the flavors meld together and the mixture to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Finalize and Serve
- Preheat your broiler. Pour the spinach mixture into an oven-proof dish, and sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese.
- Place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with golden spots forming on top.
- Serve hot, as a side dish or an appetizer with crostini or as a base for various dishes.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Spinach Delight
Here are some tips to ensure your Creamy Spinach Delight is as delightful as it can be:
- Draining Spinach: Ensure your spinach is very well drained to avoid a watery dish.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese. A mix of gruyere and cheddar can offer a different flavor profile.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, you can thin it with a splash of milk or cream. Conversely, if it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Garnish: Before serving, a sprinkle of additional nutmeg or a grating of fresh Parmesan can enhance the dish's visual appeal.
💡 Note: Remember to adjust the heat as needed. Cooking spinach at too high a temperature can cause it to lose its vibrant color and nutrients.
Variations to Explore
Here are some variations that can add a twist to the traditional recipe:
- Add-ins: Mix in roasted red peppers, bacon bits, or sautéed mushrooms for additional flavors.
- Spice it up: A dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes can give a slight kick to the dish.
- Dietary Adaptations: For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream, or use reduced-fat cheeses.
- Herb Variations: Adding fresh herbs like basil, dill, or even a bit of lemon zest can change the profile completely.
Why This Dish Is a Delight
Paula Deen's Creamy Spinach Delight combines the richness of cheese with the health benefits of spinach in a way that makes it a favorite for both comfort food lovers and those seeking to include greens in their diet:
- It's versatile - perfect for a holiday table, a casual dinner, or as a base for other recipes.
- The creamy texture and cheese mixture provide comfort and indulgence.
- Despite its richness, it packs a nutritional punch with spinach being high in iron and vitamins.
With every spoonful of this creamy concoction, you get a blend of flavors and textures that are both soothing and satisfying, making Paula Deen's recipe a timeless treasure in the culinary world.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare this dish up to the point of adding the cheese topping. Refrigerate and then broil just before serving to ensure the cheese is nicely melted and bubbly.
How can I adjust this recipe for a vegetarian diet?
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Ensure all cheeses used are vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses can have animal rennet. Opt for vegetable-based cream cheese and consider using nutritional yeast for an umami flavor instead of Parmesan.
What are some good pairings for this spinach delight?
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This dish pairs well with roasted meats like chicken or beef, grilled fish, or can be a standalone star at a vegetarian feast. It also goes great with crusty bread or as a filling in wraps or quesadillas.
