A sprinkle of Boursin cheese can transform any dish, and that’s exactly what this creamy Boursin Creamed Spinach brings to your dinner table. As I stirred this rich, velvety mix, the delightful aroma of garlic and herbs filled my kitchen, promising a fantastic side dish in less than 30 minutes. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, but it also elevates your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or steak, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing flavor! Ready to discover how to whip up this creamy delight that impresses every time? Let’s dive in!
Why is Boursin Creamed Spinach a Must-Try?
Creamy Delight: This recipe combines rich Boursin cheese with vibrant spinach for an irresistibly smooth texture.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but flavor is essential.
Versatile Pairing: It complements a variety of proteins like steak or grilled chicken beautifully, making every meal a little more special.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: From family dinners to holiday gatherings, this dish is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.
Healthy Twist: Sneaking in a serving of greens has never been tastier, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.
Make sure to check out my Cottage Cheese Spinach for another delicious way to enjoy spinach!
Boursin Creamed Spinach Ingredients
For the Spinach
• Frozen Chopped Spinach – The base ingredient, providing the essential green element; can be substituted with fresh spinach by adjusting the quantity.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Boursin Cheese (Garlic and Herbs) – Adds fantastic creaminess and a burst of flavor; feel free to use any herbed soft cheese as a substitute.
• Heavy Cream – Contributes richness and helps thicken the sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.
• Vegetable Stock – Deepens the flavor profile of the dish; chicken broth can work just as well.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce for that perfect consistency; you can swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
For Cooking
• Avocado Oil – Used for sautéing the spinach; olive oil is an excellent alternative if preferred.
• Salt – Necessary for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust based on your dietary needs.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Boursin Creamed Spinach
Step 1: Thaw and Drain Spinach
Begin by placing the frozen chopped spinach in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it on high for about 3-4 minutes until thawed. Once melted, transfer the spinach to a fine mesh strainer or a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess liquid thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent your Boursin creamed spinach from becoming watery.
Step 2: Sauté Spinach
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Once hot, add the drained spinach and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until the spinach is heated through and vibrant green. This creates a flavorful base for your Boursin creamed spinach.
Step 3: Add Flour and Stock
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed spinach, mixing well to combine. Gradually pour in 1 cup of vegetable stock while stirring continuously. This will help the flour to dissolve smoothly without clumping. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture starts to bubble and thicken slightly, creating a creamy sauce base.
Step 4: Incorporate Boursin Cheese
Crumble the Boursin cheese into the skillet, stirring gently until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the spinach mixture. This will infuse the dish with rich, garlicky flavor while enhancing the creamy texture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring all the cheese is blended smoothly into your Boursin creamed spinach.
Step 5: Stir in Heavy Cream
Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring until well mixed. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, just until it thickens to your desired creamy consistency. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, as you want the sauce to remain velvety smooth—perfect for the finish of your Boursin creamed spinach.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once thickened, transfer your delicious Boursin creamed spinach to a serving dish. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a bit of extra Boursin cheese for a lovely presentation. This dish is best served warm, making it an ideal paired side for your favorite proteins like grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
Storage Tips for Boursin Creamed Spinach
Fridge: Store your leftover Boursin creamed spinach in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while making it easy to reheat later.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamed spinach in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creamy texture and prevent sticking.
Serve Warm: This dish is best served warm, so reheat just before serving alongside your favorite proteins, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the first!
Expert Tips for Boursin Creamed Spinach
Well-Drained Spinach: Make sure to drain the spinach thoroughly after thawing. Excess moisture can lead to a watery Boursin creamed spinach.
Cheese Incorporation: Crumble the Boursin cheese into small pieces for easier melting, ensuring a smooth flavor throughout the dish.
Mind the Heat: Keep the sauce on medium-low heat after adding the cream. Overcooking can make it grainy instead of velvety.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add sautéed garlic or shallots for an extra layer of flavor in your creamed spinach.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Make Ahead Options
Boursin Creamed Spinach is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to get ahead during hectic weeknights. You can prepare the creamed spinach up to 24 hours in advance by completing the steps through to adding the heavy cream, then allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain its rich, creamy texture, ensure it’s sealed tightly to prevent moisture loss. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of vegetable stock if needed to restore creaminess. With these simple prep steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious side dish with minimal effort!
Variations & Substitutions for Boursin Creamed Spinach
Feel free to get creative with this recipe; customizing it can enhance the flavors and make it uniquely yours!
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Fresh Spinach: Replace frozen spinach with fresh. Just use about a pound and sauté it until wilted before proceeding. The vibrant color adds a lovely touch!
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Herbed Soft Cheese: If Boursin isn’t on hand, try a mix of cream cheese with fresh herbs for a creamy alternative. This swap brings a delightful twist to the flavor.
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Half-and-Half: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Your dish will still be rich without being overly indulgent.
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Chicken Broth: Use chicken broth instead of vegetable stock for a deeper flavor. It adds a savory essence that beautifully compliments the spinach.
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Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This ensures everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
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Garlic Enhancement: Consider adding minced garlic or sautéed shallots for a fragrant flavor boost. Just a couple of cloves can elevate the dish to new aromatic heights.
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Spicy Kick: For some heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. This adds an exciting kick that balances the creaminess.
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Cheesy Finish: For an extra cheesy touch, top with shredded Parmesan or mozzarella before serving. It gives a wonderful melted layer that’s hard to resist.
Experiment with these variations, and you’ll find the perfect twist that your taste buds adore! If you enjoy spinach, you might also love my White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers for a hearty meal that showcases this vibrant green. Or try my Cottage Cheese Spinach for yet another way to sneak in those healthy greens!
What to Serve with Easy Boursin Creamed Spinach?
Indulging in this creamy delight opens up a world of mouthwatering pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
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Pan-Seared Steak: The rich, savory flavor of a perfectly cooked steak complements the creamy spinach beautifully, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.
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Grilled Chicken: Tender and juicy chicken is an excellent contrast to the velvety Boursin creamed spinach, making every bite even more delightful.
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Baked Salmon: The subtle richness of baked salmon pairs wonderfully with the herby creaminess, enhancing both flavors on your plate.
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Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, golden roasted potatoes offer a satisfying crunch that balances the smooth texture of the spinach, creating a lovely contrast.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A sprinkle of crisp greens and vibrant veggies provides a refreshing bite, perfectly offsetting the creaminess of the dish.
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Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is ideal for scooping up the creamy spinach, adding a fragrant touch to every mouthful.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of lightly bubbly sparkling wine brings a festive flair, cleansing the palate between bites and enhancing your meal’s overall enjoyment.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse creates a deliciously contrasting finish—rich yet airy and satisfying to end your meal on a sweet note.
Boursin Creamed Spinach Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chopped spinach, make sure it’s labeled as “chopped” for even cooking. If fresh spinach is your preference, look for vibrant leaves without dark spots. Generally, 8 ounces of fresh spinach equates to about 2 cups once wilted, so keep that in mind when substituting.
What’s the best way to store leftover Boursin creamed spinach?
Very good question! Store your leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This not only preserves the flavors but also makes it easy to enjoy later. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Boursin creamed spinach?
Absolutely! To freeze, let your creamed spinach cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Remember to label it with the date! When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to get the creaminess back.
What should I do if my sauce is too watery?
No worries at all! If your creamed spinach turns out too watery, try cooking it on medium heat for a few more minutes to evaporate excess moisture. You can also sprinkle in a bit more flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it. Just add gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for Boursin cream cheese?
Great question! Boursin contains dairy, so if you have lactose intolerance, you may want to opt for a lactose-free cheese or consider making a homemade herbed spread with dairy-free alternatives. Always check the ingredients for any allergens, and if you’re cooking for pets, ensure no ingredients pose a risk to them, particularly garlic.
What’s the best way to reheat Boursin creamed spinach?
To reheat your Boursin creamed spinach, pour it into a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable stock or water to help restore its creaminess and prevent sticking. Stir gently, allowing it to warm through for about 5 minutes. This method ensures that it retains its delightful texture without drying out. Enjoy every creamy spoonful!
Creamy Boursin Creamed Spinach: A Flavorful Side Dish Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing the frozen chopped spinach in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it on high for about 3-4 minutes until thawed.
- Transfer the spinach to a fine mesh strainer and squeeze out any excess liquid thoroughly.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the drained spinach and a pinch of salt, sauté for about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed spinach, mixing well. Gradually pour in the vegetable stock while stirring continuously.
- Crumble the Boursin cheese into the skillet, stirring gently until fully melted and incorporated into the spinach mixture.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring until well mixed. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Transfer your Boursin creamed spinach to a serving dish. Garnish and serve warm.
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