3 ingredient creamed spinach is comfort food made simple. Just spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan—no flour, no heavy cream, no fuss. This creamy, savory side comes together in minutes and works with nearly any main dish, from grilled chicken to a weeknight roast. At 3to5Ingredients.com, every recipe is tested to be doable with what’s in your fridge, and this one’s no exception. With 3 to 5 ingredients, you can bring warmth, texture, and flavor to your table—without dirtying a pan. If you’ve been craving a no-fuss way to serve spinach, 3 ingredient creamed spinach might just become your new favorite.
The Story Behind This Creamed Spinach
A Personal Memory from Maya
I still remember the first time I made 3 ingredient creamed spinach. It was after a long day at my first office job, and I was exhausted. I opened the freezer, saw a bag of chopped spinach, and grabbed a block of cream cheese I’d forgotten I had. A little Parmesan from the back of the fridge brought it all together. I microwaved, stirred, and tasted—and was amazed at how creamy and satisfying it turned out. I didn’t need a recipe, just a few ingredients and a little curiosity.
Since that night, 3 ingredient creamed spinach has been a go-to. It’s the kind of dish that always works, no matter the season or situation. Whether I’m cooking for one or feeding family, it’s always a hit.
Why This Simple Dish Is Still Worth Sharing
There’s magic in a recipe that doesn’t ask much of you. 3 ingredient creamed spinach delivers rich flavor and creamy texture without a single stovetop step. Just heat, stir, and eat. It fits perfectly into the 3 to 5 ingredient mindset I believe in—especially when life is busy and your brain’s already full.
Cream cheese gives the spinach body and richness, while Parmesan sharpens every bite. It’s an easy side that tastes like you tried harder than you did. And that’s exactly why it belongs here—on a site dedicated to real food, made simple.
Just like with this comforting 5 ingredient banana bread, I love creating dishes that bring big flavor with minimal effort
Table of Contents
Why Simplicity Wins
Fewer Ingredients, More Confidence
One of the biggest wins in my kitchen? Trusting that a recipe will work. 3 ingredient creamed spinach is one of those no-fail dishes. When you stick to just three quality ingredients, there’s no guesswork—just solid, satisfying results. It’s comforting to know that with spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan, you’ve got something special in minutes.
Fewer ingredients mean less to prep and less to clean. You’re more likely to cook when it doesn’t feel overwhelming. And when the result tastes this rich and creamy, you’ll be glad you kept it simple. That’s why 3 ingredient creamed spinach keeps showing up at my table—it just works.
Elegant Meals Without Overload
There’s elegance in simplicity. With 3 ingredient creamed spinach, you get a velvety, restaurant-worthy side without complicated steps or extra ingredients. It’s amazing what these three can do when brought together just right.
This side dish fits in anywhere—from your weeknight dinner plate to your holiday spread. It adds richness and warmth next to a roast or grilled chicken. And because it’s so quick to prepare, you’ll have more time to focus on the rest of your meal—or just relax.
The magic of 3 ingredient creamed spinach is that it looks and tastes like more than it is. And that’s the kind of cooking I’ll always stand behind.
Print
3 Ingredient Creamed Spinach Everyone Will Love
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This cozy 3 ingredient creamed spinach comes together in minutes with just frozen spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan. It’s a creamy, satisfying side dish you’ll return to again and again—minimal effort, maximum comfort.
Ingredients
- 1 8 oz block low fat cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Microwave chopped spinach in a large bowl until hot, stirring halfway through.
- Drain any excess liquid thoroughly using a spoon or towel.
- Add cream cheese and Parmesan to the bowl and stir gently.
- Microwave for an additional 2 minutes to soften cream cheese.
- Stir again until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a looser texture, add a splash of milk after combining.
- To use fresh spinach, cook down about 20 cups to match the frozen yield.
- If the dish thickens in the fridge, reheat gently and stir with a touch of cream cheese or milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Ingredients
What You’ll Need for This 3–5 Ingredient Recipe
The real magic of 3 ingredient creamed spinach is how easy it is to make with just a few basic items. You won’t need anything fancy or hard to pronounce—just three reliable ingredients that come together like they were made for each other:
- Chopped spinach (frozen is perfect)
- Low-fat cream cheese (I use Neufchâtel)
- Parmesan cheese
That’s it—three ingredients that bring out the best in each other. The spinach adds heartiness, the cream cheese brings smoothness, and the Parmesan gives it that salty, nutty finish that makes you go back for more. I like to add a little garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for seasoning, but the core of 3 ingredient creamed spinach is as simple and solid as it sounds.
Smart Swaps & Creative Alternatives
One of the best things about 3 ingredient creamed spinach is that it’s flexible enough to meet you where you are. No need to run to the store if you’re out of something—just work with what you’ve got:
- If you’re out of Parmesan, swap in shredded cheddar, Asiago, or even a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
- Want to use fresh spinach? It’s totally doable—just cook down about 20 cups to get the same amount you’d get from frozen.
- No garlic powder? A little fresh minced garlic or garlic-infused olive oil adds great flavor.
The key to 3 ingredient creamed spinach is keeping the heart of the dish intact—rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying with as little effort as possible.
If you enjoy building simple recipes around pantry staples, you’ll also love how this 3 ingredient chocolate mousse balances ease and indulgence.
Instructions
Quick Steps (Time-Saver Method)
If you’re short on time, 3 ingredient creamed spinach is your best friend. It’s fast, hands-off, and totally satisfying. Start by microwaving your chopped spinach in a large bowl. Stir it once halfway through to make sure it heats evenly. After about 5 to 6 minutes, carefully drain the extra water—this keeps your final dish thick and creamy.
Next, add your block of cream cheese and sprinkle in the Parmesan. Give it a gentle stir, then microwave the bowl again for 2 more minutes. This helps soften the cheese so it’s easier to mix. After that, stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
Dinner side? Done.
Full Instructions With Timing & Texture Tips
What makes 3 ingredient creamed spinach so comforting is the velvety texture—and getting that right starts with proper draining. After microwaving the spinach, press out as much water as possible using a spoon or clean kitchen towel. Too much moisture will thin out the creamy base.
Once drained, drop in the cream cheese and Parmesan. Don’t worry if the cream cheese looks a little stiff at first. After another 2 minutes in the microwave, it softens enough to stir easily. Mix well until every leaf is coated and the cheese is fully melted in.
Taste it. Season with garlic powder, a little salt, and pepper. That final touch brings the whole thing to life. Your 3 ingredient creamed spinach is now ready to serve—creamy, hot, and packed with flavor, all without ever turning on the stove.
Step-by-Step
Gathering, Measuring, and Prepping with Ease
The best part of 3 ingredient creamed spinach? You don’t need much to get started. Just three core ingredients and a bowl. I usually pull my frozen chopped spinach from the freezer about 10 minutes before, so it’s easier to handle. Measure out the Parmesan and cut your cream cheese into chunks if you want it to melt faster.
You’ll need a large microwave-safe bowl, a spoon or spatula for mixing, and a strainer or a clean towel to press out extra moisture. That’s it. No special equipment—just the kind of setup that makes weeknight cooking feel completely doable.
Visual Cues & Timing for Perfect Results
When you’re heating spinach for 3 ingredient creamed spinach, the main thing to watch is the water content. After microwaving, your spinach will release a good amount of liquid. Drain it well so the cream cheese has a chance to create that rich, velvety texture we love.
Once you’ve added the cheese and given it another quick microwave burst, you’ll see the cream cheese start to soften and melt. Stir slowly but firmly, folding it in until everything’s coated. It may look clumpy at first—keep stirring, and it’ll smooth out.
The final dish should be thick, creamy, and slightly glossy. That’s when you know your 3 ingredient creamed spinach is exactly where it needs to be—ready to plate, serve, and disappear fast.
Creative Twists & Dietary-Friendly Versions
Flavor Variations & Add-In Ideas
Even though 3 ingredient creamed spinach is wonderfully simple, it’s also the perfect canvas for small, creative touches. You can easily dress it up without losing that easy-to-make spirit. A single extra ingredient can completely shift the flavor in a cozy new direction.
Try adding red pepper flakes if you like a little kick, or stir in caramelized onions for something mellow and sweet. A dash of nutmeg is another classic that warms it up, especially for holiday meals. You can even toss in some chopped cooked bacon or mushrooms for more heartiness.
No matter the variation, the base of 3 ingredient creamed spinach stays strong—creamy, balanced, and endlessly flexible.
Vegan, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free Options
If you’re following a special diet, don’t worry—3 ingredient creamed spinach can easily be adapted to fit your needs. It’s already naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, and just a couple of thoughtful swaps make it vegan-friendly too.
Use plant-based cream cheese made from cashews or almonds for the same creamy texture. Replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a savory, dairy-free bite. And if you’re starting with fresh spinach, be sure to cook it down and drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
These adjustments don’t take away from the soul of the dish. Instead, they keep 3 ingredient creamed spinach accessible and just as comforting, no matter how you eat.
Add-ins like avocado or lime might not work here, but they do shine in our 5 ingredient guacamole recipe if you’re craving something creamy and fresh with a different twist.
Serving & Storing Guidelines
Presenting It Beautifully
Even though 3 ingredient creamed spinach is a simple side, you can still serve it in a way that feels special. Spoon it into a warm dish right from the microwave, and top it with a little extra grated Parmesan. That golden layer on top makes it feel like something you’d order out, even if it only took you ten minutes at home.
For a dinner party, I love using small ramekins or bowls—it keeps things neat and lets everyone enjoy their own creamy portion. This side pairs perfectly with baked chicken, roasted salmon, or even alongside pasta when you want a creamy green to balance things out.
A sprinkle of cracked pepper or red pepper flakes adds color and just enough contrast to make it pop. And since 3 ingredient creamed spinach is already rich, it doesn’t need anything fancy to shine.
Shelf Life & Storage Tips
3 ingredient creamed spinach stores surprisingly well. Any leftovers can be placed in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture stays smooth, and the flavor often deepens a little overnight.
To reheat, just microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between so it warms evenly. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a spoonful of milk or a bit of cream cheese to bring it back to life.
Having a leftover like this in the fridge is a gift on a busy day. Whether you’re meal prepping or just making a bit extra, 3 ingredient creamed spinach is one of those rare dishes that’s just as satisfying the next time around.
Avoiding Mistakes & Mastering Techniques
Common Mistakes to Avoid
3 ingredient creamed spinach is a reliable go-to, but like any simple recipe, a few missteps can make it less than perfect. The biggest one? Not draining the spinach well. Frozen spinach holds a lot of water, and if you skip this step, you’ll end up with a dish that’s thin instead of creamy. Press out that extra liquid—it makes all the difference.
Another mistake is expecting the cream cheese to melt instantly. It needs time. After microwaving, give it a good stir, then another short heat burst. Keep folding it into the spinach until everything blends together. That’s how you get the smooth, rich texture that makes 3 ingredient creamed spinach such a comfort food favorite.
Also, don’t forget to season. Parmesan brings saltiness, but garlic powder and a dash of black pepper round out the flavor. These little touches make it taste thoughtfully homemade, even if it only took minutes.
Rescue Techniques
If your 3 ingredient creamed spinach ends up too runny, don’t worry—it’s fixable. Microwave it in short bursts and stir until some of that moisture evaporates. If it’s still too thin, add another small chunk of cream cheese and stir again. You’ll be back to creamy in no time.
Too thick? A splash of milk or a tiny bit of water will loosen it up without watering it down.
And here’s something interesting: pairing spinach with dairy actually helps your body absorb more of its iron. That means this cozy side dish isn’t just quick—it’s also sneaky-healthy.
Every time I make 3 ingredient creamed spinach, I’m reminded that simple food can be smart, comforting, and completely satisfying.
Nutrition Facts & Health Benefits of Spinach
Nutritional Score (Per Serving)
Even though 3 ingredient creamed spinach is rich and comforting, it’s also loaded with natural goodness. Here’s a simple look at the nutrition in one half-cup serving:
Nutrition Table (per 1/2 cup serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 |
| Fat | 9g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
That’s pretty impressive for something you can make in 10 minutes. The blend of spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a creamy, satisfying side with just 3 main ingredients—but still gives you protein, fiber, and important minerals.
Maya’s Personal Note on Key Ingredients
What I love most about 3 ingredient creamed spinach is that it gives you more than comfort—it gives you real value from every bite. Spinach is naturally packed with vitamins like A, C, and K, plus iron and antioxidants. When you mix it with dairy, your body absorbs even more of the iron, which makes this dish both cozy and surprisingly nutritious.
Cream cheese adds that creamy base while giving the dish some staying power thanks to its healthy fats and protein. And Parmesan? Just a little goes a long way in adding flavor and calcium.
Simple food really can do more than we expect. That’s why I keep 3 ingredient creamed spinach in regular rotation—not just because it’s fast, but because it actually fuels the body while feeding the soul.
Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense leafy greens, packed with iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C—as noted in its nutritional profile, it’s been celebrated in kitchens for generations
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamed Spinach
How to make simple creamy spinach?
The easiest way to make creamy spinach? Stick with 3 ingredient creamed spinach. All you need is frozen spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Heat the spinach in the microwave, drain it well, and then stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan. Microwave again to help everything melt together, then stir until smooth. It’s creamy, satisfying, and comes together in minutes—without flour, butter, or a stovetop.
How to make spinach cream sauce?
If you love creamy textures, the base of 3 ingredient creamed spinach can double as a delicious spinach cream sauce. Simply follow the recipe as-is, then add a little milk or water to thin it out into a pourable consistency. This version works great over pasta, baked chicken, or mashed potatoes. It’s still rich and flavorful—just a little more flexible in texture.
Is it good to mix spinach with milk?
Yes, and it’s actually a smart nutritional combo. In 3 ingredient creamed spinach, the dairy (from cream cheese and Parmesan) softens the earthy flavor of spinach and helps your body absorb more iron from the greens. If you like a looser texture, a splash of milk can be added to make it extra creamy without overwhelming the dish. It keeps everything smooth and balanced.
What makes spinach taste good?
Spinach tastes best when it’s paired with creamy, salty, or umami-rich ingredients. That’s why 3 ingredient creamed spinach works so well—it blends spinach with cream cheese and Parmesan, which mellow the bitterness and enhance flavor. A little garlic powder or a dash of nutmeg can also brighten things up. When cooked right, spinach is anything but boring.
Cooking Glossary
Key Techniques Explained Simply
Even with a recipe as easy as 3 ingredient creamed spinach, a few small techniques make all the difference. These are the steps that turn something basic into something you’ll want to make again and again.
Microwave in rounds: Heating spinach in short bursts lets it warm through evenly. Stirring halfway avoids soggy spots and helps the cream cheese blend smoothly later on.
Drain it well: Frozen spinach holds a surprising amount of water. After microwaving, use a spoon or towel to press out the extra moisture. This step makes sure your 3 ingredient creamed spinach ends up rich and creamy—not watery.
Melt the cream cheese fully: After you stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan, microwave again so everything softens together. Then mix slowly and thoroughly. This is where the creamy texture really comes together.
Each of these steps takes just a minute, but they make a huge impact. With a little attention, your 3 ingredient creamed spinach will turn out smooth, flavorful, and beautifully balanced every time.
Cream cheese plays a big role in giving this dish its velvety base, thanks to its soft texture and mild tang, both of which are key traits of cream cheese in savory recipes.
Learn as You Cook: Real-World Kitchen Knowledge
If you’re new to this kind of cooking, it helps to know where each part fits in. Using the microwave as a tool for microwave cooking isn’t just about convenience—it’s about speed and control. Understanding how to prep leaf vegetables like spinach means you keep more nutrients and better texture. And when you know what makes cream cheese so special—its softness, its mild flavor—you start to see why it works so well in dishes like this.
Conclusion: Make Creamed Spinach Part of Your Everyday Joy
Why You’ll Want to Make It Again
The first time I made 3 ingredient creamed spinach, I remember thinking, “That’s it?” And then I tasted it—and it became an instant staple. There’s something so comforting about how quickly it comes together, how rich it tastes, and how it somehow feels like more than just three ingredients.
It’s the kind of side dish that fits into any meal. It doesn’t steal the spotlight, but it definitely gets remembered. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding your family, or hosting a dinner, 3 ingredient creamed spinach delivers that creamy, cozy flavor we all crave—with zero stress.
You’ll want to make it again because it’s simple. But you’ll keep making it because it’s good.
Why Simple Cooking Still Matters
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in the kitchen, it’s that the best meals often start with less. 3 ingredient creamed spinach proves that. It shows up when your fridge is almost empty, when your energy is low, and when you just need something warm and real. And every single time, it comes through.
“What you have is already enough. Let’s cook.” – Maya
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Leave a comment, share a photo, or let me know what you paired it with. The joy of cooking gets even better when we share it.