The Best Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms Recipe Ever

Creamy textures of spinach dance beautifully with crispy bacon in this irresistible side dish.

Umami-rich mushrooms complement the silky blend of ingredients perfectly.

Salt and pepper create magical depth within each spoonful.

Bacon crackles and adds smoky undertones that elevate simple vegetables.

Home cooks adore how quickly this recipe comes together with minimal effort.

Seasonal produce shines through in every delectable bite.

You will want seconds of this comforting, indulgent creation that feels like a warm culinary hug.

Ingredients Needed for Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

• Bacon: Adds a smoky and crispy element to the creamed spinach dish.
• Mushrooms: Provides an earthy and meaty texture to the recipe.

• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and smooth base for the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty and nutty flavor to enhance the overall taste.
• Butter: Helps to sauté vegetables and adds richness to the dish.

• Spinach, Fresh: Brings a vibrant green color and nutritious leafy element to the recipe.
• Onion, Garlic: Adds depth of flavor and aromatic base to the creamed spinach.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Nutmeg: Provides balanced seasoning and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How to Make Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

Step 1: Sizzle Bacon to Crispy Perfection

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook chopped bacon until it turns golden and crisp. Transfer the bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon, allowing excess grease to drain.

Step 2: Soften Aromatic Base

Use the same skillet with bacon drippings and add butter. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their delightful aroma.

Step 3: Roast Mushroom Medley

Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet, spreading them evenly. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop a rich brown color and become tender with slightly crispy edges.

Step 4: Wilt Fresh Spinach

Introduce fresh spinach leaves into the skillet, gently folding them into the mushroom mixture. Allow the spinach to wilt and shrink, which takes about 2-3 minutes, creating a vibrant green backdrop.

Step 5: Create Creamy Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet and sprinkle Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to blend the ingredients, letting the mixture simmer and thicken for 2-3 minutes until it reaches a luxurious, velvety consistency.

Step 6: Season and Enhance

Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste. For an optional sophisticated touch, add a pinch of nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile and provide a subtle warmth.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Return the crispy bacon pieces to the skillet, gently folding them into the creamy spinach mixture. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately while the dish is warm and inviting.

Pro Tips for Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

• Bacon Bliss: Save some bacon grease for extra flavor by cooking bacon first in the skillet before sautéing other ingredients.
• Spinach Selection: Choose fresh, crisp spinach leaves for the best texture and vibrant green color in the final dish.
• Cream Control: Use room temperature heavy cream to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth, silky sauce consistency.
• Low and Slow: Simmer the cream mixture gently to prevent burning and allow flavors to meld together perfectly.
• Nutmeg Nudge: Add a tiny pinch of nutmeg to enhance the creamy, earthy flavors of the spinach and mushrooms.

Variation Suggestions for Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

• Vegetarian Spinach Delight: Replace bacon with smoked tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein option, using olive oil instead of bacon fat.
• Low-Carb Creamy Greens: Swap mushrooms with zucchini or cauliflower, and use coconut cream for a lighter, keto-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free Mushroom Medley: Substitute heavy cream with cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, and use feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a Greek-inspired variation.

Pairing Ideas for Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah complements the rich, creamy flavors and cuts through the bacon's smokiness.
• Serve Alongside Grilled Protein: Juicy steak or roasted chicken breast perfectly balances the creamy spinach and adds protein-packed texture.
• Match with Crusty Bread: Toasted sourdough or rustic garlic bread helps soak up the delicious cream sauce and provides a crunchy contrast.
• Create Balanced Plate: Add a light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette to refresh the palate and cut through the dish's richness.

Storage Recommendations for Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

• Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly to prevent moisture loss and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Stop heating once the dish is steaming hot.
• Warm the creamed spinach in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir frequently and heat until completely warmed through.
• Transfer cooled dish to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs for Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

• Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely, drain excess water, and squeeze out moisture before adding to the skillet.

• Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Try half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

• How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the vegetables. Consider adding smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.

• What type of mushrooms work best?

Button, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms are excellent choices. Each brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

What Makes Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms So Creamy and Flavorful

• Boost Flavor Profile: Bacon adds a smoky, crispy texture that elevates the creamy spinach and mushroom base, creating a rich and indulgent combination of tastes.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy home cooks seeking a satisfying side dish.
• Versatile Comfort Dish: Adaptable to various dietary preferences by adjusting ingredients, this recipe works beautifully as a side or can be transformed into a main course with added protein.
• Impressive Crowd-Pleaser: Looks and tastes gourmet despite being simple to make, making it great for dinner parties or family gatherings where you want to wow your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Creamed Spinach, Bacon, And Mushrooms Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 19-21 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory “Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms” deliver an irresistible blend of earthy flavors and rich textures. Crispy bacon, tender mushrooms, and silky spinach create a comforting side dish you’ll crave at every meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 10 ounces (280 grams) fresh spinach
• 8 ounces (226 grams) mushrooms, sliced
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced

Dairy and Cream:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
• 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 pinch nutmeg (optional)

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Instructions

1. Render bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the rendered fat.
2. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in the bacon drippings for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Introduce sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes until they release moisture and develop a rich, caramelized exterior.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet, gently folding until they wilt and reduce in volume, approximately 2 minutes.
5. Stream heavy cream into the vegetable mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth, cohesive sauce.
6. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce for 2-3 minutes over low heat.
7. Season the mixture with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a delicate hint of nutmeg to enhance the overall flavor profile.
8. Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces over the creamed spinach, gently folding to distribute evenly.
9. Transfer the warm, luxurious side dish to a serving platter and enjoy immediately while the textures remain vibrant and the sauce is velvety.

Notes

• Bacon Selection: Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum crispiness and rich flavor that enhances the entire dish.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace onions with shallots to reduce carbohydrate content and maintain delicate flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute bacon with smoked paprika or sun-dried tomatoes to create similar depth and umami sensation.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for creamy texture without traditional dairy ingredients.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 14-16 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg