Ruth Chris Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Recipe

Introduction

The Ruth’s Chris Steak House Creamed Spinach recipe is a beloved side dish, renowned for its rich, creamy texture and decadent flavor. Its popularity stems from the iconic steakhouse chain’s commitment to quality ingredients and impeccable preparation. This recipe allows home cooks to recreate that restaurant experience, offering a luxurious and comforting dish perfect for special occasions or elevated weeknight meals.

Ingredients

The key to Ruth’s Chris creamed spinach lies in its high-quality ingredients. You’ll need:

Fresh spinach: Approximately 2 pounds, thoroughly washed and stems removed. Frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) can be used as a substitute, but fresh spinach provides a superior texture.
Heavy cream: 1 cup. Using whole milk instead of cream will result in a less rich dish.
Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted.
All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons. This is the thickening agent.
Whole milk: 1/2 cup.
Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup. Provides a salty, savory note.
Grated Romano cheese: 1/4 cup. Contributes a sharper, more assertive flavor than Parmesan.
Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly grated if possible. Adds a subtle warmth.
Salt: To taste.
White pepper: To taste. White pepper offers a less pronounced flavor than black pepper, allowing the other ingredients to shine.
Garlic: 1 clove, minced (optional). Some variations include garlic for added depth.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation ensures a smooth and flavorful final product.

Wash the spinach thoroughly: Even pre-washed spinach can contain grit. Submerge the spinach in a large bowl of cold water, agitate, and then lift the spinach out, leaving any sediment behind. Repeat until the water runs clear.
Remove spinach stems: Coarsely chop the spinach after stemming.
Grate the cheeses: Freshly grated Parmesan and Romano cheese melt more smoothly and contribute a better flavor.
Measure out all ingredients: Having everything prepped and ready to go streamlines the cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

The cooking process involves creating a roux, wilting the spinach, and combining everything into a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Melt the butter: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Make the roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and pale golden. This is the roux, which will thicken the sauce.
Whisk in the milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the cheeses and nutmeg: Stir in the Parmesan and Romano cheese, and nutmeg. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Incorporate the spinach: Add the spinach to the sauce in batches, stirring until each batch wilts and is fully incorporated. This may take a few minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thoroughly drained to avoid a watery sauce.
Season to taste: Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Add minced garlic (if using) at this stage.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. The spinach should be tender, and the sauce should be thick and creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Ruth’s Chris creamed spinach is traditionally served as a side dish with steak, but its versatility extends beyond that.

Classic Pairing: Serve alongside a perfectly cooked steak (ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip are excellent choices).
Other Meats: Pairs well with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or grilled salmon.
Vegetarian Option: Serve as a main course with a side of crusty bread.
Garnish: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a dash of paprika adds visual appeal.
Plating: Serve in individual ramekins or a larger serving bowl.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Achieving restaurant-quality creamed spinach requires attention to detail.

Don’t overcook the spinach: Overcooked spinach becomes mushy. Cook just until wilted and tender.
Use fresh ingredients: High-quality ingredients make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
Prevent lumps in the sauce: Whisk the roux constantly and gradually add the milk and cream.
Avoid a watery sauce: Thoroughly drain frozen spinach.
Adjust seasoning to your taste: Start with a small amount of salt and pepper and add more as needed.
Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This helps prevent scorching.
Don’t skip the nutmeg: It adds a subtle but essential warmth to the dish.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering the Ruth’s Chris Steak House Creamed Spinach recipe brings a touch of elegance and culinary sophistication to any meal. Its rich flavor and comforting texture make it a universally appealing side dish, readily adaptable to various dietary preferences and occasions. Whether serving alongside a perfectly grilled steak or enjoying as a standalone vegetarian delight, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience. Elevate your home cooking and impress your guests by trying this iconic dish today. Explore more inspiring recipes and cooking guides at website.com to unlock a world of culinary possibilities.