"Almost" Boston Market Creamed Spinach

My Almost-Perfect Copycat Boston Market Creamed Spinach

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious, comforting meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the ever-present struggle to get everyone fed before bedtime. That's why I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This "almost" Boston Market Creamed Spinach is one of those gems. I discovered this recipe while trying to recreate the creamy, decadent spinach side dish I love from Boston Market. While I can't claim to have perfected the exact copycat, this version comes incredibly close and takes a fraction of the time.

The secret to this recipe's success lies in the simple, yet effective technique of creating a smooth, flavorful white sauce. The combination of butter, flour, and half-and-half (or milk) creates the perfect creamy base, which is then enhanced by the addition of fresh or frozen spinach, a touch of sour cream, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The result? A rich, savory, and surprisingly simple side dish that will impress even the most discerning palates. I often serve this alongside roasted chicken or turkey, making it a complete and satisfying weeknight meal. The kids love it too, which is a bonus!

But this recipe isn't just for busy weeknights. It's also perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and any occasion where you need a crowd-pleasing side dish that's easy to transport and prepare. I've even been known to double the recipe and freeze half for future use – a real lifesaver when time is short. The flavors actually deepen a bit after freezing, making it even better the second time around.

Tips and Variations:

• Frozen vs. Fresh Spinach: I often use frozen spinach for convenience, but fresh spinach works just as well. If using fresh, make sure to thoroughly wash and chop it before adding it to the pan.
• Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of black pepper or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick. My kids aren’t fans of spice, but my husband loves a little kick so I often make half with and half without.
• Cheese Alternatives: While Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty, sharp flavor, you can easily substitute other hard cheeses, such as Asiago or Romano.
• Creaminess Factor: For an extra creamy side dish, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half. However, I find that half-and-half provides the perfect balance of creaminess and richness without being overly heavy.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it even more convenient for busy schedules. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This "almost" Boston Market Creamed Spinach recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It's versatile, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make, even on the busiest of days. It's the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a culinary genius, even when you're secretly relying on a few shortcuts to get dinner on the table. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Beyond the simple cooking aspect, this dish evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. The creamy texture, the rich flavor, the comforting warmth – it’s the kind of food that makes you feel nurtured and cared for. And in the chaos of daily life, isn't that exactly what we all need?

I encourage you to experiment with this recipe. Try different cheeses, add your favorite herbs, or adjust the seasonings to your liking. The beauty of cooking is in the freedom to create and personalize your dishes to reflect your own tastes and preferences. And who knows, maybe your version will become a family favorite just like mine!

Step-by-step

• In a saucepan melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat until sizzling.
• If using, saute fresh garlic and a pinch of cayenne pepper in the butter for about 2 minutes, but do not brown the garlic.
• Whisk in the flour and 1/2 tsp seasoned salt (or white salt) until creamed together and smooth.
• Stir in the half and half, or milk (if using) a little at a time.
• Increase heat to medium and constantly whisk until the mixture becomes thick and smooth.
• Remove from heat; set aside.
• Place 3 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat; add the 2 tablespoons minced onion, and cook until transparent.
• Add spinach and water to the pan, lower the heat, and cover.
• Stir several times until the spinach is cooked.
• When the spinach is almost done, add the prepared white sauce, sour cream and Parmesan cheese (if using).
• Stir well, and simmer until completely blended.
• Season with more seasoned salt or white salt if desired and black pepper.