This classic spinach side dish uses cream cheese as a thickener and is popular with both young and old.

3 to 4 bunches (2 1/2 pounds total) flat-leaf spinach, trimmed and cleaned

2 tablespoons butter

1/2 medium onion, minced

4 garlic cloves, minced

4 ounces bar cream cheese, cut into pieces

1/2 cup milk

pinch ground nutmeg

coarse salt and ground pepper

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spinach, and cook just until wilted, about 1 minute. Drain in a colander; rinse with cold water until cool. Squeeze spinach to remove as much liquid as possible; coarsely chop, and set aside.
In a large saucepan, heat butter over medium. Add onion and garlic; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion softens, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add cream cheese and milk; cook, stirring, until cream cheese is melted and smooth. Stir in spinach. Simmer over medium heat until mixture thickens, 8 to 10 minutes. Add nutmeg; season with salt and pepper.