Holiday Dinner- Side Dish

It's time to start planning on what to make for Christmas dinner.  In our family, we always have some sort of beef as the main dish (whether it's a rib roast or tenderloin), but the sides vary.  I tested this recipe the other day to see if it was "up to par" for a holiday meal, and it passed with flying colors.  It was delicious, rich, and flavorful.  I hope you enjoy!

Ingredients for Ultimate Creamed Spinach:

1 pound washed baby spinach (I used fresh, but you could use frozen too)
1 medium onion, sliced thinly
4 strips of thick cut bacon (or 6 original cut) cut into strips (lardons)
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons flour
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk (4%)
Salt and pepper to taste

Thickening the milk mixture

Ready to eat!

In a large frying pan, add the bacon, butter, and onions over medium heat.  Cook for about 15 minutes, or until onions are browned and bacon is cooked through.  Season with salt and pepper  Turn the heat to medium-low.  Sprinkle the flour on the bacon/onion mixture and stir for a minute until flour is starting to cook.  Add the heavy cream and whisk until the lumps are gone (will be super thick), slowly add in the milk while whisking.  If mixture is still too thick you can add more milk.  When liquid starts to simmer, turn heat to lowest setting and add spinach.  It will quickly wilt down when it cooks.  Serve immediately, or keep at low setting until ready to serve.  I didn't do this when I cooked it, but it'd be good with a garnish of freshly grated parmesan too.