If you’ve ever dined at Morton’s Steakhouse, you know their side dishes are just as legendary as the steaks themselves. Among the standout favorites, the Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Recipe holds a special place. Luxuriously creamy, perfectly seasoned, and bursting with rich flavor, this classic steakhouse side dish elevates any meal.
The good news? You don’t have to book a reservation at Morton’s to enjoy it. With a handful of fresh ingredients and a little technique, you can recreate this indulgent dish in your own kitchen. Today, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to helpful tips and serving ideas.
Why You’ll Love Morton’s Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a timeless steakhouse staple, but Morton’s version has a few qualities that make it extra special:
- Silky Texture – A velvety béchamel sauce coats every bite of spinach.
- Balanced Flavor – Cream, butter, garlic, and nutmeg add depth without overwhelming the spinach.
- Restaurant Quality at Home – This recipe brings fine-dining flair to your dinner table.
- Versatile Side Dish – It pairs beautifully with steak, chicken, fish, or even holiday roasts.
Whether you’re cooking for a dinner party or just want to elevate a weeknight meal, this dish adds elegance and comfort in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To replicate Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Recipe, you’ll need a mix of fresh and pantry staples.
Fresh Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh spinach (baby spinach works best, but you can also use frozen spinach if well-drained)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cream Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a slight kick)
Optional Additions
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (for extra richness)
- A few dashes of hot sauce (if you want more depth)
Step-by-Step Instructions
This Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Recipe comes together in about 30 minutes.
1. Prepare the Spinach
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Blanch spinach for 1–2 minutes until just wilted.
- Drain immediately and plunge into ice water to stop cooking.
- Squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible, then roughly chop.
👉 Tip: Removing excess water prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
2. Make the Cream Base
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk and Cream
- Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring until smooth and thickened.
- Pour in heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, white pepper, and optional cayenne.
- Let simmer for 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens to a velvety consistency.
4. Add Spinach
- Fold the chopped spinach into the cream sauce.
- Stir until well coated and heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasonings.
5. Serve Steakhouse Style
- Transfer to a warm serving dish.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese or a dusting of nutmeg.
- Serve immediately alongside steak or roasted meats.
Tips for Perfect Creamed Spinach
- Drain Well: If using frozen spinach, squeeze it dry with a towel. Any excess water will thin out the sauce.
- Don’t Skip Nutmeg: Just a touch enhances the creamy sauce and adds a subtle warmth.
- Use Whole Milk + Cream: For that Morton’s richness, avoid using low-fat substitutes.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream.
Serving Suggestions
Morton’s Steakhouse serves their creamed spinach as the perfect complement to prime cuts of steak. At home, here’s how you can enjoy it:
- Classic Pairing: With a grilled ribeye or filet mignon.
- Holiday Feast: Alongside turkey, ham, or roast beef.
- Seafood Night: Try it with salmon or pan-seared scallops.
- Comfort Food: Spoon it over mashed potatoes or baked potatoes.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
(Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and serving size.)
Variations of Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Recipe
Want to put your own spin on this dish? Here are a few creative variations:
- Cheesy Creamed Spinach – Stir in Gruyère or Fontina for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
- Bacon Lovers’ Version – Add crispy bacon crumbles for smoky depth.
- Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly – Use heavy cream only, skipping the flour. Thicken with cream cheese instead.
- Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw completely and squeeze out all excess moisture.
2. How long does creamed spinach last?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
3. Can I freeze creamed spinach?
It’s not recommended, as dairy-based sauces can separate when thawed.
4. What makes Morton’s version so good?
The balance of cream, butter, nutmeg, and perfectly cooked spinach creates a luxurious side dish that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Final Thoughts
The Morton’s Steakhouse Creamed Spinach Recipe is proof that side dishes can be just as memorable as the main course. With its silky sauce, savory flavor, and rich texture, it’s the ultimate steakhouse comfort food.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, planning a romantic dinner, or simply craving restaurant-quality food at home, this recipe delivers. Pair it with a juicy steak, a glass of red wine, and you’ll have the full Morton’s experience right in your kitchen.