🥬 Lawry’s Famous Creamed Spinach – A Luxuriously Rich & Velvety Steakhouse Classic

Few side dishes can compete with the creamy, buttery perfection of Lawry’s Famous Creamed Spinach. This iconic dish, served for decades at Lawry’s The Prime Rib restaurant, has earned a reputation as one of the ultimate steakhouse sides — smooth, savory, and loaded with flavor.

Made with tender spinach folded into a silky, seasoned cream sauce, this recipe transforms humble greens into something truly decadent. Whether you’re serving it alongside a juicy prime rib, roasted chicken, or holiday ham, this creamed spinach will instantly elevate your meal to fine-dining status.

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🧈 Why You’ll Love Lawry’s Creamed Spinach

✔️ Rich & creamy texture – Silky, velvety, and absolutely satisfying.
✔️ Restaurant-quality flavor – Just like the famous Lawry’s version.
✔️ Perfect for holidays & dinner parties – Elegant, classic, and always a hit.
✔️ Simple to make – Comes together in about 20 minutes!
✔️ Pairs with everything – Especially beef, poultry, and seafood.

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🥬 Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds (900g) fresh spinach, washed and trimmed (or 3 x 10 oz packages frozen spinach, thawed and drained well)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated preferred)
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup (25g) shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

If using fresh spinach:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the spinach and cook for 30–45 seconds, just until wilted.
3. Drain immediately and plunge into ice water to stop the cooking.
4. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible, then chop finely.

If using frozen spinach:

• Thaw completely and squeeze out all excess water using a clean towel or paper towels.

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Step 2: Make the Cream Base

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

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Step 3: Create the Roux

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
2. Gradually whisk in milk, a little at a time, to avoid lumps.
3. Once smooth, add the heavy cream.
4. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.

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Step 4: Season and Add Cheese

1. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the sauce.
2. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella (optional) until melted and creamy.

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Step 5: Add the Spinach

Fold in the chopped spinach until it’s fully coated with the creamy sauce.
Cook for 2–3 minutes more, stirring often, to let all the flavors blend.

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Step 6: Adjust Consistency

• If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or cream.
• If it’s too thin, simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.

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Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot as a side dish with:

• Prime rib or steak
• Roast turkey or chicken
• Baked salmon or halibut
• Pork tenderloin

Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a few butter pats just before serving for an extra rich finish.

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🧄 Optional Variations

✨ Garlic Lovers’ Version: Add an extra clove of garlic for a bolder flavor.
✨ Cheesy Spinach Bake: Pour the mixture into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, and broil for 5 minutes until bubbly.
✨ Low-Carb Twist: Substitute heavy cream only (skip milk) for a richer, keto-friendly version.
✨ Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for heat.

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🍷 Pairing Suggestions

Lawry’s Creamed Spinach shines beside hearty, savory dishes. Try serving it with:

🥩 Lawry’s Prime Rib Roast – its buttery richness perfectly complements the meat.
🍗 Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken – for a comforting family dinner.
🐟 Pan-Seared Salmon – the creaminess balances the delicate fish.
🍷 Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay – both pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• To Reheat: Warm over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen if needed.

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💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Creamed Spinach

✔️ Squeeze spinach well — excess water can make your sauce watery.
✔️ Use fresh nutmeg — it adds warmth and complexity.
✔️ Don’t overcook — spinach should remain a deep green color, not dull.
✔️ Choose whole milk & cream — for the richest, most authentic flavor.

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❤️ Why This Recipe Is So Beloved

Lawry’s Famous Creamed Spinach is more than just a side dish — it’s an experience. It’s the kind of comforting, luxurious flavor that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced. The combination of velvety cream sauce, tender spinach, and savory Parmesan creates the ultimate steakhouse moment right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner or a holiday feast, this creamed spinach brings elegance and nostalgia to every table.

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🏁 Final Thoughts

Rich, comforting, and timeless — Lawry’s Famous Creamed Spinach is the ultimate side for anyone who loves classic steakhouse flavors. With its perfectly balanced cream sauce, buttery texture, and a hint of nutmeg warmth, it’s a dish that turns spinach into pure indulgence.

Once you’ve made it at home, you’ll understand why it’s a Lawry’s signature and why no steak dinner ever feels complete without it. 🥬✨

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