Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms Recipe
If you’re looking for a savory, creamy, and indulgent side dish, this **Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms** recipe is the perfect choice. This dish blends the earthiness of mushrooms, the rich flavors of crispy bacon, and the velvety texture of spinach all wrapped in a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s the ideal side to elevate any meal, or even a standalone dish when you want something hearty. Whether you're serving it alongside a main course or topping it on rice, pasta, or protein, the **Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms** will become a household favorite for comfort food lovers. Bigzazoo is especially fond of this recipe for its quick prep and deep, rich flavors.
Yield: 4
Materials
- - **4 slices of bacon** – chopped adds a smoky, savory crunch to the dish
- - **1 tablespoon butter** – for sautéing the vegetables
- - **½ cup onion** – finely chopped adds sweetness and depth of flavor
- - **2 cloves garlic** – minced a classic aromatic that enhances the flavor of any savory dish
- - **8 oz mushrooms** – sliced use any variety, though cremini or button mushrooms work best
- - **10 oz fresh spinach** – chopped the star green of this dish, offering a nutritious base
- - **1 cup heavy cream** – for the creamy sauce
- - **½ cup grated Parmesan cheese** – for a salty nutty flavor in the sauce
- - **Salt and pepper** – to taste
- - **Pinch of nutmeg optional** – adds warmth and depth to the creamy sauce
Instructions
Cook the Bacon
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once the bacon is done, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet, and set it aside. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the pan, as this will be used to sauté the remaining ingredients.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add 1 tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Cook the Mushrooms
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir everything together and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms become golden brown and tender. This step allows the mushrooms to release their moisture and develop a rich, earthy flavor.
Wilt the Spinach
- Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir the spinach into the mushroom mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and reduced in volume.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Season and Finish
- Season the dish with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. The nutmeg adds a touch of warmth that complements the cream and spinach. Stir in the crispy bacon pieces to combine all the flavors, and then remove the skillet from the heat.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the **Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms** warm, either as a side dish or on top of pasta, rice, or your favorite protein. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.