Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe

Intro

There are certain dishes that instantly make you feel like you’re sitting in a beautiful steakhouse, the kind where the lighting is warm, the plates are heavy, and every bite feels just a little luxurious. For me, one of those unforgettable dishes is the famous Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe. The first time I tasted it, I remember thinking, how can something as simple as spinach taste this indulgent?

As a home chef who loves recreating restaurant favorites in my own kitchen, this dish became a personal mission. I wanted to capture that same silky texture, that rich creamy flavor, and the way the spinach practically melts into the sauce with every bite.

Picture a warm skillet filled with tender spinach folded into a velvety cream sauce, scented with garlic and onion, and finished with just the right amount of Parmesan. The aroma alone is enough to make you feel like dinner is going to be something special.

Over time, this easy Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe became one of my favorite side dishes to make for family dinners, holiday tables, and cozy weekend meals. It’s comforting, creamy, and surprisingly simple to prepare.

If you’ve ever wanted to recreate that iconic steakhouse flavor at home, this homemade Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe will absolutely deliver.

What is Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach?

The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe is inspired by the famous steakhouse side dish served at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. While spinach might sound simple, the secret lies in the luxurious cream sauce that transforms it into something rich and memorable.

Instead of plain sautéed greens, the spinach is folded into a thick, creamy base made with butter, cream, garlic, and cheese. The result is a dish that is silky, savory, and deeply comforting.

What makes this classic Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors:

• Tender cooked spinach
• Rich cream sauce
• Subtle garlic and onion flavor
• Buttery smooth texture
• Light cheesy finish

It’s the kind of side dish that often steals the spotlight from the main course.

Equipment List

To make this recipe easily at home, you’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Medium saucepan
• Large skillet
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander

These everyday tools are more than enough to recreate this steakhouse favorite.

Recipe Card Info

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American Steakhouse
Course: Side Dish
Calories: 220 per serving

Ingredients

Here is everything you need for this creamy, comforting dish:

• 1 pound fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 ounces cream cheese

Optional garnish:

• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

If using fresh spinach, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the spinach for about 30 seconds. Drain and squeeze out excess moisture before roughly chopping.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. The aroma should become wonderfully rich without letting the garlic brown.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk continuously for about 1 minute. This step helps create the creamy base for the sauce.

Step 5: Build the Cream Sauce

Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while whisking. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens into a smooth, velvety texture.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan. As they melt, the sauce becomes even richer and silkier.

Step 7: Fold in the Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir until it is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 8: Season to Perfection

Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

My Favorite Tips for Perfect Creamed Spinach

After making this dish many times, here are a few tips that always help:

• Always squeeze excess water from spinach
• Use heavy cream for the richest texture
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts best
• A pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavor beautifully

Small details make a big difference.

What to Serve with Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach

This creamy side dish pairs perfectly with many main courses:

• Grilled steak
• Roast chicken
• Baked salmon
• Garlic butter shrimp
• Holiday roasted turkey

It also tastes wonderful served alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers store surprisingly well.

Refrigerator:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:

• Freeze for up to 1 month, though texture may slightly change.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.

This keeps the sauce creamy and smooth.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you master the easy Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe, you can customize it:

• Add sautéed mushrooms
• Stir in crispy bacon bits
• Mix in shredded mozzarella
• Add caramelized onions for sweetness

These variations make the dish even more exciting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works very well. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

Why add nutmeg?

Nutmeg enhances the creamy flavor and is traditionally used in classic creamed spinach recipes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare it earlier in the day and gently reheat before serving.

Can I make it lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

What makes this taste like the steakhouse version?

The combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, and heavy cream gives the dish its signature rich texture.

---

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality side dish at home, this homemade Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe is truly worth making. Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, it turns a simple vegetable into something unforgettable.

More Delightful Recipes:

• Ina Garten Tiramisu Recipe
• Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas Recipe
• Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage Recipe