Keto creamed spinach is a delightful, rich, and creamy dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb, high-fat ketogenic diet. If you want a low-carb, high-fat ketogenic diet side dish recipe, checkout keto creamed spinach which is creamy, flavorful and only contains 3g of carbs. This recipe provides an excellent way to add nutritionally dense spinach to your diet.
This keto recipe includes flour and cornstarch and uses heavy cream, parmesan, and cream cheese (to keep carbs low) and high in flavor and creates a rich, thick texture (no need for extra thickeners like flour is required) No matter what point you are in your low-carb journey, you’re bound to love this dish.
With just 15 minutes of preparation, you can easily make this creamed spinach recipe and it is a lifesaver when you’re short on time but want flavor. You can pair this dish with steak, chicken, ribs, or with seafood—whatever you serve, it’ll go well.
Benefit of Spinach
There are various benefits of using Spinach in this recipe. It is low in carbs, and rich in fiber (aids digestion) so if you are following a keto diet then it is perfect for you. It is also packed with vitamins like A, C, and K, and also minerals such as magnesium and iron means it will have a positive effect on your health.
Spinach helps fight inflammation by its high antioxidant content. When its mild flavor blends with creamy, cheesy sauces, the overall taste you will really enjoy. You can enjoy it on a busy weeknight or relaxing weekend afternoon after easily preparing it within 14 to 15 minutes only.
Ingredients You Need
Spinach: I am using fresh spinach which is the start of this dish. You can use baby spinach (which adds a more tender texture) or mature spinach (for a bit more bite). I am using 10 ounces of fresh spinach (recommended), though you can also use frozen spinach as well.
Garlic: I have used fresh garlic cloves (minced) to add a flavorful punch to the dish. You can also use Garlic powder (in a pinch) but fresh vegetables are fresh so my recommendation is to always use fresh garlic.
Cream Cheese: I have used softened cream cheese which will bring a creamy texture. For best results try using full-fat cream cheese.
Heavy Cream: As I have used heavy cream, it really adds richness to the dish and is keto-friendly due to its high-fat content.
Parmesan Cheese: I have used grated parmesan cheese which adds nutty flavor and helps for sauce thickness. The amazing thing is, it also provides a slight crisp when broiled.
Salt and Black Pepper: Use them for seasoning for your desired taste.
Instructions
Grab Your Pan: Time to Sauté
A Large pan is required. You have to start with Sauté shallots and garlic in a pan until fragrant.
Whip Up a Rich Cream Sauce
Now you have to make the cream sauce. It can easily be made by adding spices to the pan, heavy cream and cream cheese, and Parmesan Cheese. If you cook sauce for a long time then it will reduce more.
Spinach Prep
Now clean and dry fresh spinach thoroughly, you can use a salad spinner or paper towel if they are fresh. You have to add some fresh spinach and then cook it until wilted. If you are using frozen spinach then you need to thaw and drain excess water first.
Creamy Spinach Perfection
Simmer for a few minutes until the spinach is fully coated in the creamy sauce. You can tell the spinach is fully cooked when it turns a vibrant green and becomes tender. The leaves should wilt down significantly and be soft to the touch. For even cooking, stir occasionally.
Serving Suggestions
The Keto creamed spinach is great and pairs well with some other dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
With Steak: As the creamed spinach is a classic steakhouse side you can serve it alongside a juicy ribeye or filet mignon.
With Chicken: You can pair it with grilled or roasted chicken breast for a complete, low-carb dinner.
With Fish: The creamy richness of the spinach complements the delicate flavors of grilled salmon or seared scallops.
As a Main Course: In order to make a vegetarian keto meal, you can enjoy creamed spinach on its own or with a side of keto-friendly bread or crackers.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach is convenient, In terms of taste and texture, fresh spinach is the best. If you must use frozen, then I recommend you thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid a watery dish.
Don’t Rush the Cream Cheese: You can take your time melting the cream cheese into the spinach to avoid lumps of cream cheese and get a smooth, creamy sauce.
Adjust to Your Liking: You can try adding more garlic or mixing cheese of different types such as mozzarella or Gruyère for a different twist.
Storing and Reheating
You can store keto-creamed spinach easily by following the steps below:
Refrigerating: First you have to ensure the keto creamed spinach dish is completely cooled, then transfer it into an airtight container. Now you have to store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the creamed spinach if it cools completely and is transferred to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months, and then thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before eating.
Reheating: If you want to reheat then you have to place the spinach in a saucepan over low heat, then stirring occasionally until heated through. Remember if the sauce is too thick after reheating, just add a splash of heavy cream or water to loosen it up. Also check this keto chicken enchiladas recipe.
In A Nutshell
With this Keto Creamed Spinach recipe, you’re in for a real treat! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect low-carb dish. The rich texture combined with the savory spinach and cheese creates a truly satisfying bite. Plus, you can easily tweak the seasoning to match your taste, adding any spices you love. Whether you’re on a keto diet or not, this creamed spinach is a tasty and healthy way to enjoy your veggies.
FAQs
For making this spinach dish dairy free you can use coconut cream or almond milk (as a substitute for heavy cream). You can use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese as an alternative to cheese. You will not get that amazing flavor but still be a rich and satisfying spinach dish.
This keto-creamed spinach is a great meal option, you can make a large batch and easily store it (in individual portions). This makes it an easy side dish for your weekend.
Yes, you can add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to turn it into a satisfying main course. You have to cook protein separately and then stir it in after preparing the creamed spinach. With this addition, the dish will gain flavor, texture, and filling power while still remaining keto-friendly.
If you’re looking to spice things up, toss in some red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce. You could also throw in minced garlic, onion powder, or a bit of smoked paprika for extra flavor. Just tweak the spices to your liking, and you’ll have a keto creamed spinach with a delicious, fiery kick.