Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 pounds fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted. Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water. Squeeze out as much water as possible and chop the spinach.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in the chopped spinach and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Let the Jack-Creamed Spinach cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 290
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 450mg
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach. Thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible before using.
- You can use another type of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, instead of Monterey Jack.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the spinach to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Use a good-quality Monterey Jack cheese for the best flavor.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it in the oven before serving.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the Jack-Creamed Spinach in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Jack-Creamed Spinach in a decorative baking dish or individual ramekins.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color.
Pairings:
This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or beef.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the Jack-Creamed Spinach with a side of roasted potatoes or a green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the dish becomes too watery, try adding a little more flour or cheese to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the spinach thoroughly to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
Creamed spinach has been a popular side dish since the 1800s. It was often served in upscale restaurants and was a favorite of the wealthy.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is creamy, cheesy, and slightly nutty from the addition of nutmeg.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Jack-Creamed Spinach as a side dish for a special occasion or holiday meal.
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