Hey guys! Are you looking for a delicious and super easy side dish that you can whip up in no time? Look no further! Today, we’re diving into a classic comfort food recipe: Spinach Maria. And the best part? We’re making it with frozen spinach, which means you can enjoy this creamy, dreamy goodness any time of the year. Get ready to transform that bag of frozen spinach into something truly special.

What is Spinach Maria?

Before we jump into the recipe, let's talk about what Spinach Maria actually is. It's a creamy, cheesy spinach dish that's often served as a side. The dish is celebrated for its rich flavor and comforting texture. What sets it apart from other spinach recipes is its decadent creaminess, which comes from a combination of cream cheese, butter, and sometimes a touch of heavy cream. This makes it a hit at dinner parties and family meals alike. The origins of Spinach Maria are somewhat mysterious, with various versions popping up across different cuisines. Regardless of its exact birthplace, one thing is certain: it’s a crowd-pleaser. It's the kind of dish that even spinach skeptics can get behind, thanks to its rich, cheesy goodness. The versatility of Spinach Maria also contributes to its popularity. While traditionally served as a side dish, it can easily be incorporated into other recipes. Try serving it over pasta, using it as a filling for stuffed chicken breasts, or even spreading it on toast for a sophisticated appetizer. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Spinach Maria is guaranteed to add a touch of elegance and flavor to your meal. This recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Its simplicity and incredible taste make it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, you'll find that this Spinach Maria recipe is easy to follow and yields consistently delicious results. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish!

Why Use Frozen Spinach?

Now, you might be wondering why we're opting for frozen spinach instead of fresh. Well, there are a few really good reasons. First off, convenience is key. Frozen spinach is readily available year-round, so you don't have to worry about seasonal availability or making a special trip to the store. Plus, it has a longer shelf life than fresh spinach, which means you can keep it on hand for whenever the craving strikes. Another advantage of using frozen spinach is that it's often more cost-effective than fresh. Spinach tends to shrink down quite a bit when cooked, so buying it frozen ensures you're getting more bang for your buck. Additionally, frozen spinach is typically pre-washed and blanched, which saves you time and effort in the kitchen. You don't have to spend time meticulously washing and chopping spinach leaves – simply thaw it out and you're ready to go. But perhaps the most compelling reason to use frozen spinach is that it's just as nutritious as fresh spinach. Freezing spinach preserves its vitamins and minerals, so you're not sacrificing any nutritional value when you opt for the frozen variety. In fact, some studies have shown that frozen spinach may actually have higher levels of certain nutrients than fresh spinach, due to the fact that it's processed and frozen at its peak ripeness. So, whether you're short on time, looking to save money, or simply want a convenient way to add more greens to your diet, frozen spinach is an excellent choice. Don't let anyone tell you that fresh is always better – in this case, frozen spinach is a winner!

Ingredients You'll Need

Okay, let’s gather our ingredients. This Spinach Maria recipe is so simple, you probably have most of these items in your kitchen already.

• Frozen Spinach: 1 package (about 10 ounces), thawed and squeezed dry. Make sure you really squeeze out all the excess water! This is super important for getting the right consistency.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter adds richness and flavor. You can use salted or unsalted, depending on your preference.
• Onion: 1/2 cup, chopped. Onion provides a savory base for the dish. Yellow or white onions work best.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Garlic is a must for adding that aromatic punch.
• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened. Cream cheese is the key ingredient for creating that creamy texture.
• Milk: 1/4 cup. Milk helps to thin out the cream cheese and create a smooth sauce. You can use whole milk, 2%, or even a plant-based milk.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the dish. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Optional: A pinch of nutmeg. Nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the spinach perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, now for the fun part! Let's walk through how to make this delicious Spinach Maria.

1. Thaw and Drain the Spinach: First things first, thaw your frozen spinach. Once it’s thawed, squeeze out as much water as humanly possible. I usually do this by wrapping the spinach in a clean kitchen towel and twisting until no more water comes out. Seriously, don't skip this step! Excess water will ruin the texture of your Spinach Maria.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the Spinach: Add the squeezed-dry spinach to the skillet and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. This helps to evaporate any remaining moisture and meld the flavors together.
4. Incorporate the Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and milk to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps!
5. Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using nutmeg, add a pinch now. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, salt brings out the flavors, so don't be shy!
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is well combined and heated through, your Spinach Maria is ready to serve! You can serve it immediately as a side dish, or let it cool slightly and use it as a filling for other recipes. It's delicious served hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Spinach Maria

Want to take your Spinach Maria to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time:

• Squeeze, Squeeze, Squeeze: I can't stress this enough – make sure you squeeze out all the excess water from the frozen spinach. This is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese will melt more easily and create a smoother sauce. Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start cooking.
• Don't Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the spinach, as it can become mushy. Cook it just until it's heated through and the flavors have melded together.
• Add Some Heat: If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the spinach.
• Get Creative with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, mozzarella, or cheddar would all be delicious additions.
• Make it Ahead: Spinach Maria can be made ahead of time and reheated. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Variations on Spinach Maria

The beauty of Spinach Maria is that it's so versatile! Here are a few variations to try:

• Artichoke and Spinach Maria: Add a can of drained and chopped artichoke hearts to the skillet along with the spinach.
• Mushroom and Spinach Maria: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onion and garlic.
• Bacon and Spinach Maria: Cook chopped bacon in the skillet before adding the onion and garlic. Crumble the bacon and stir it into the finished dish.
• Jalapeño and Spinach Maria: Add minced jalapeño to the skillet along with the onion and garlic for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Spinach Maria: Use plant-based cream cheese and milk, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach Maria is a fantastic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: Spinach Maria is a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish.
• Roasted Meats: Serve it alongside roasted beef, pork, or lamb.
• Pasta Dishes: Spoon it over your favorite pasta for a creamy and flavorful vegetarian meal.
• Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Use it as a filling for stuffed chicken breasts.
• Appetizer: Spread it on toast or crackers for a sophisticated appetizer.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A quick, easy, and delicious Spinach Maria recipe that you can make with frozen spinach any time you want. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor – the perfect side dish for any occasion. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! And don't forget to experiment with different variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!