Rich Ruth Chris Spinach Treat: A Decadent and Irresistible Side Dish 🥬✨🍽️
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a sumptuous side dish guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds and pair flawlessly with your favorite entrée, look no further than this exquisite Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe. This delightful dish is not only rich in flavor but also packed with essential nutrients from wholesome spinach. The classic, comforting combination of fresh spinach, aromatic garlic, and creamy goodness makes it a perfect, elegant addition to any dinner table. Whether served alongside a juicy steak, a succulent roast chicken, or your choice of protein, this homemade version of the iconic Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe is bound to impress your guests, elevate your meal to a restaurant-quality experience, and have everyone asking for seconds. For a lighter option, explore our recipe for light and airy cream puffs. Now, let’s dive into the simple steps on how to create this gourmet delight in the comfort of your own kitchen!

2. Ingredients
To create this delectable creamed spinach, gather the following high-quality ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh spinach, thoroughly washed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced finely
- 1 cup heavy cream, providing richness
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for best flavor
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, enhancing the flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional), adding a subtle warmth
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Spinach
Begin by thoroughly washing the fresh spinach under cold running water. Ensuring that your greens are impeccably clean is crucial for achieving the best, most authentic flavor in your creamy Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe. After washing, gently chop the spinach if necessary, but larger leaves can also work beautifully, especially if you prefer a rustic presentation. Removing excess moisture ensures the spinach properly absorbs the creamy sauce. For another flavorful side, consider our savory spicy huevos rancheros.

Step 2: Sautéing the Ingredients
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, taking care not to burn it, about 1 minute. This step is vital for building the flavor profile of your Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe, infusing the dish with a delightful, aromatic foundation. Sautéing the garlic correctly avoids any bitter aftertaste. You can also enjoy our spiced steak street tacos for a flavorful experience.

Step 3: Creating the Creamy Base
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed garlic and butter mixture. Gently allow it to simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly – this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the cream, creating a smooth and velvety sauce. Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using, adjusting the seasonings to your personal preference. This creamy base is absolutely essential for achieving that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth feel that defines a true Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe. For a delightful dessert, explore our rich New Orleans bread pudding recipe.

Step 4: Mixing Spinach with Cream
Now, carefully add the prepared spinach to the creamy, cheesy mixture in the skillet, stirring continuously until the spinach is wilted and fully incorporated into the sauce. Ensure every leaf is coated in the rich cream and cheese for an even flavor distribution. This final step is where your simple Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe truly transforms into a decadent, utterly irresistible treat that will have everyone craving more! Remove from heat and serve immediately for the best taste and texture. For another cheesy delight, check out our recipe for savory Philly cheesesteak loaf.

4. Storage Tips
This creamy Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe is undeniably best enjoyed fresh, allowing you to savor its flavors at their peak. However, if you find yourself with delightful leftovers, you can easily store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring well to ensure even heating throughout. Avoid overheating to prevent the cream from separating. You can find similar recipes at Food.com.
5. Serving Suggestions
Serve your breathtakingly rich Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe as a classic accompaniment to your favorite steak, such as a perfectly grilled ribeye or a tender filet mignon. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or baked fish, offering a versatile side dish for any main course. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple side of perfectly cooked pasta for an elegant yet comforting culinary experience. Why not try our delightful Texas beef tips cowboy plate?
6. FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this delicious recipe?
For a lighter caloric option, you can certainly use half-and-half or whole milk in place of the heavy cream. Just keep in mind that the resulting texture of the creamed spinach may not be quite as intensely rich and decadent as the original using heavy cream. A touch of cornstarch can help thicken the sauce if using milk.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach in this iconic side dish?
Yes, you absolutely can use frozen spinach as a convenient substitute for fresh spinach in this recipe. Just ensure that you thaw the frozen spinach completely and drain it very thoroughly to remove any excess water before adding it to the cream sauce. Excess water can dilute the sauce and affect the overall texture.
How can I easily make this classic creamed spinach dish vegan-friendly for dietary needs?
To easily create a fully vegan version of this delightful creamed spinach, simply substitute the heavy cream with an equal amount of full-fat coconut cream or another dairy-free cream alternative. Also, use your favorite plant-based Parmesan cheese alternative in place of the traditional Parmesan. With these simple swaps, you can enjoy a delicious, vegan-friendly version of this classic dish. For pizza lovers, don’t miss our review of quality pizza options!
7. Conclusion
The incredibly delicious Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe you’ve just mastered is destined to become an absolute must-have in your personal culinary repertoire. Its lusciously rich flavors, combined with its wonderfully creamy texture, make it stand out as an exceptional side dish that perfectly complements a wide variety of main courses. Embrace this easy-to-follow recipe to impress your family, delight your closest friends, and elevate your next dinner gathering to a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
8. Additional Tips
Feel free to experiment creatively with additional spices, flavorful herbs, and a variety of cheeses to customize your unique version of this fantastic Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe. Adding just a pinch of fiery cayenne pepper for a subtle kick of heat or sprinkling in some tangy feta cheese for a delightful salty note can elevate this already amazing dish even further! Consider also adding a touch of sautéed shallots for extra depth of flavor. If you’re in New Haven, check out our New Haven’s best pizza review!
9. Conclusion
If you’re seeking a restaurant-quality, show-stopping side dish that you can effortlessly prepare in the comfort of your own home, then make absolutely certain to try this delectable Ruth Chris creamed spinach recipe. Its perfect blend of creamy, rich, and utterly irresistible flavors will quickly transform it into a highly requested staple for your family dinners and all of your special occasions! This dish adds a touch of luxury to any meal.
Print
Rich Ruth Chris Spinach Treat
Experience the decadent and irresistible Rich Ruth Chris Spinach Treat, a sumptuous side dish featuring fresh spinach, garlic, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfectly paired with your favorite entrée, this Ruth Chris-inspired recipe is sure to impress at dinner gatherings.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly, and chop it if necessary.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream to the skillet and simmer until slightly thickened, then stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Add the prepared spinach to the creamy base, stirring until wilted and well incorporated.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Pairs wonderfully with steak, grilled chicken, or baked fish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 250 Kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg