Keto Creamed Spinach
If you’re on the hunt for a rich, creamy side dish that complements any meal while keeping your carb count low, look no further than this Keto Creamed Spinach. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic creamed spinach, packed with flavor and a velvety texture that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or even as part of a low-carb holiday feast, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests.
Why This Recipe Works
Keto Creamed Spinach is the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. The combination of fresh baby spinach, creamy cheeses, and aromatic onions and garlic creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying. Using heavy cream and cream cheese keeps the dish rich while remaining low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those following a ketogenic diet. The addition of freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty element that elevates the entire dish. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals from the spinach, making it a wholesome addition to your meal plan.
What You’ll Gather
- 20 oz baby spinach: Fresh spinach provides essential nutrients and a delightful texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1/2 medium onion finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: A must for that aromatic kick.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup milk: Helps to thin out the sauce slightly.
- 4 oz cream cheese softened: Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated: For a nutty, salty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
Gear Checklist
- Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the onions and spinach.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Sharp knife: For chopping the onion and garlic.
- Cutting board: A safe place to prepare your ingredients.
- Whisk: Useful for combining the cream cheese and heavy cream smoothly.
Keto Creamed Spinach: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 2: Wilt the Spinach
Add the 20 oz of baby spinach to the skillet. It may seem like a lot, but spinach wilts down significantly. Stir the spinach into the onion and garlic mixture, cooking until it is wilted and tender, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk. Use a whisk to blend them together until smooth and creamy. This will help create a luscious sauce for your spinach.
Step 4: Combine and Season
Pour the creamy mixture into the skillet with the wilted spinach. Stir well to combine, ensuring the spinach is evenly coated. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is heated through and combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your Keto Creamed Spinach warm as a side dish, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
What to Use Instead
- Spinach: You can substitute with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard, but keep in mind they may alter the flavor and texture.
- Heavy cream: If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but this may increase the carb count slightly.
- Cream cheese: Neufchâtel or mascarpone can be used as alternatives, providing a similar creamy texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be good substitutes for a different flavor profile.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
When making Keto Creamed Spinach, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the spinach: If the spinach is cooked too long, it can become mushy. Aim for just wilted and tender.
- Clumpy sauce: If your cream cheese is too cold, it can clump when mixed in. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth sauce.
- Too salty: If the dish tastes overly salty, balance it out with a bit of cream or a splash of lemon juice.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of your Keto Creamed Spinach, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up if it gets too thick.
Helpful Q&A
Can I freeze Keto Creamed Spinach?
While it’s technically possible to freeze creamed spinach, the texture may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider doing so before adding the cream and cheeses, then add them in after thawing and reheating.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Keto Creamed Spinach is perfect for meal prep. Just prepare a batch and portion it into containers for an easy side dish throughout the week.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for additional flavor and complexity.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and cream cheese, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Cook This Next
- Keto Chicken Alfredo
- Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
- Creamy Cauliflower Mash
- Keto Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Final Bite
Keto Creamed Spinach is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. The combination of creamy textures and the vibrant taste of spinach makes this dish a must-try for anyone on a ketogenic diet. It’s easy to whip up, pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, and is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Give it a try, and let this creamy delight transform your meal!
Keto Creamed Spinach
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the 20 oz of baby spinach to the skillet. It may seem like a lot, but spinach wilts down significantly. Stir the spinach into the onion and garlic mixture, cooking until it is wilted and tender, about 3-5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk. Use a whisk to blend them together until smooth and creamy. This will help create a luscious sauce for your spinach.
- Pour the creamy mixture into the skillet with the wilted spinach. Stir well to combine, ensuring the spinach is evenly coated. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Once everything is heated through and combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your Keto Creamed Spinach warm as a side dish, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
