Keto Creamed Spinach is a flavorful and indulgent side dish that fits seamlessly into a ketogenic diet. This recipe transforms fresh spinach into a creamy, rich accompaniment that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. By combining spinach with a luscious mixture of heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors while keeping carbs in check.
Creamed spinach, a classic favorite in American cuisine, is made keto-friendly through the use of low-carb ingredients and healthy fats. Traditional versions often rely on flour or bread crumbs to thicken the sauce, but this recipe sidesteps those additions, making it suitable for keto eaters. The result is a dish that’s both delicious and compliant with ketogenic dietary restrictions.
Keto Creamed Spinach Recipe
Ingredients
- Fresh Spinach (10 ounces):
- Description: About 280 grams or 1 pound of fresh spinach. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain it thoroughly.
- Purpose: Spinach is the main vegetable in this dish, providing a nutrient-rich base that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup or 240 ml):
- Description: Rich and thick cream that adds creaminess and helps to form the base of the sauce.
- Purpose: Creates a luxurious, smooth texture for the sauce while keeping it low in carbs.
- Cream Cheese (4 ounces or 113 grams):
- Description: Soft, spreadable cheese that melts easily into the sauce.
- Purpose: Enhances the creaminess and thickness of the sauce. For best results, ensure it’s softened before use.
- Garlic (2 cloves):
- Description: Fresh garlic, minced finely.
- Purpose: Adds a savory depth of flavor and complements the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup or 50 grams):
- Description: Grated Parmesan cheese, preferably freshly grated for the best flavor.
- Purpose: Provides a salty, tangy flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce. Also helps thicken it slightly.
- Butter or Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):
- Description: Choose between unsalted butter or olive oil for sautéing.
- Purpose: Used to cook the spinach and garlic, adding richness and flavor to the dish.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon):
- Description: Standard table salt or sea salt.
- Purpose: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust to taste if needed.
- Pepper (1/4 teaspoon):
- Description: Freshly ground black pepper.
- Purpose: Adds a mild heat and balances the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Optional: Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon) and Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon):
- Description: Nutmeg is a warm, aromatic spice; onion powder adds a subtle onion flavor.
- Purpose: These optional spices can be added to deepen the flavor profile of the dish. Nutmeg pairs well with creamy dishes, while onion powder complements the garlic.
Ingredients
1. Prepare and Cook the Spinach:
- Fresh Spinach: Wash and thoroughly dry the fresh spinach. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain any excess water. If using fresh, roughly chop the spinach leaves for easier handling.
- Cooking: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted and reduced in volume. This should take about 3-4 minutes. If using fresh spinach, you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once the spinach is cooked, transfer it to a colander or strainer to drain excess liquid.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Sauce Base: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix Cream and Cheese: Add 4 ounces of cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts and becomes smooth. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while continuously stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. For additional flavor, you can also add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg and/or onion powder, if desired.
3. Combine and then Serve:
- Combine Spinach and Sauce: Return the cooked spinach to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir well to coat the spinach evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm as a delicious keto-friendly side dish.
Once you’ve served the Keto Creamed Spinach, enjoy its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor alongside your favorite keto-friendly main dishes. This dish not only complements a variety of meals but also adds a nutritious and satisfying element to your plate. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and gently reheat to enjoy this delicious side dish again.
Keto Creamed Spinach is a decadent yet keto-friendly side dish that brings a touch of indulgence to your meals while adhering to low-carb dietary guidelines. This dish features tender spinach enveloped in a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The addition of garlic and optional seasonings like nutmeg or onion powder enhances the taste, making it a delicious accompaniment to various main courses.
Not only does this dish fit perfectly within a ketogenic diet, but it also offers the nutritional benefits of spinach, which is packed with vitamins and minerals while being low in carbs. Spinach provides essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium, supporting overall health and wellness. With its easy preparation and versatile pairing options, Keto Creamed Spinach is an excellent choice for adding a touch of elegance to your keto meals.
Keto Creamed Spinach Nutrition Info
Keto Creamed Spinach is a rich and creamy side dish that aligns with ketogenic dietary principles while providing essential nutrients from spinach and high-fat ingredients. Here is a detailed nutrition table to help you understand the caloric and macronutrient breakdown of this delicious recipe.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/4 of recipe) | % Daily Value (based on a 2,000-calorie diet) |
| Calories | ~420 kcal | 21% |
| Total Fat | 39 g | 60% |
| – Saturated Fat | 22 g | 110% |
| – Trans Fat | 0 g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 145 mg | 48% |
| Sodium | 680 mg | 30% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 8 g | 3% |
| – Dietary Fiber | 4 g | 16% |
| – Sugars | 2 g | – |
| Protein | 10 g | 20% |
| Vitamin A | 60% of Daily Value | – |
| Vitamin C | 15% of Daily Value | – |
| Calcium | 30% of Daily Value | – |
| Iron | 10% of Daily Value | – |
Note: The above nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used. Adjust the serving size and ingredient portions according to your dietary needs and preferences.
Here’s the combined nutrition table for each ingredient used in the Keto Creamed Spinach recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrates | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein | Vitamin A | Vitamin C | Calcium | Iron |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Spinach | 10 oz (280 g) | 70 kcal | 1 g | 0.2 g | 0 mg | 60 mg | 10 g | 7 g | 0.6 g | 8 g | 280% DV | 30% DV | 20% DV | 15% DV |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup (240 ml) | 800 kcal | 88 g | 56 g | 330 mg | 80 mg | 6 g | 0 g | 0 g | 5 g | 10% DV | 0% DV | 10% DV | 0% DV |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz (113 g) | 400 kcal | 40 g | 24 g | 120 mg | 380 mg | 8 g | 0 g | 4 g | 8 g | 20% DV | 0% DV | 20% DV | 4% DV |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup (50 g) | 210 kcal | 14 g | 9 g | 50 mg | 470 mg | 1 g | 0 g | 0 g | 18 g | 20% DV | 0% DV | 20% DV | 2% DV |
| Butter | 2 tbsp (28 g) | 200 kcal | 22 g | 14 g | 65 mg | 2 mg | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 4% DV | 0% DV | 2% DV | 0% DV |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp (27 g) | 240 kcal | 27 g | 4 g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0% DV | 0% DV | 0% DV | 0% DV |
| Garlic | 2 cloves (6 g) | 9 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 1 mg | 2 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0.4 g | 1% DV | 2% DV | 1% DV | 1% DV |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp (3 g) | 0 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 1160 mg | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0% DV | 0% DV | 0% DV | 0% DV |
| Pepper | 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) | 2 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0% DV | 0% DV | 0% DV | 1% DV |
| Nutmeg (Optional) | 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) | 3 kcal | 0.2 g | 0.1 g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0.5 g | 0.3 g | 0.1 g | 0.1 g | 0% DV | 1% DV | 1% DV | 1% DV |
| Onion Powder (Optional) | 1/4 tsp (0.6 g) | 3 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0.8 g | 0.3 g | 0.1 g | 0.1 g | 0% DV | 0% DV | 1% DV | 0% DV |
Optional ingredients (nutmeg and onion powder) contribute minimally to the overall nutritional profile of the dish.
Tips for Best Results
Keto Creamed Spinach Recipe
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan - For cooking the spinach and making the cream sauce.
- Colander or Strainer – If using fresh spinach, for draining excess water.
- Knife For chopping spinach if needed.
- Cutting board For chopping and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons For measuring ingredients like heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
- Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring the spinach and cream mixture.
- Grater For grating Parmesan cheese, if using block cheese.
- Garlic Press – For mincing garlic, if preferred(optional)
Ingredients
- 1 pound Fresh Spinach
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Butter or Olive Oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Pepper
Optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
Instructions
- Cook Spinach: Sauté 10 ounces of fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach) in 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil until wilted; drain excess liquid.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or oil, add 2 minced garlic cloves, and cook until fragrant. Mix in 4 ounces of cream cheese and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
- Add Cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg and/or onion powder.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked spinach to the skillet, mixing it with the creamy sauce until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste, garnish with extra Parmesan if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Spinach Preparation: If using fresh spinach, make sure to thoroughly wash and dry it before cooking. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- Cream Cheese: For a smoother sauce, make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the skillet. This helps it blend more easily into the cream.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it with a bit more heavy cream or a splash of chicken or vegetable broth.
- Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or optional seasonings (like nutmeg and onion powder) according to your preference before combining with the spinach.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little cream if needed to restore the original consistency.
Delicious Topping Ideas
Here are some delicious topping ideas to elevate your Keto Creamed Spinach:
- Crispy Bacon Crumbles: Add a crunchy texture and smoky flavor with crispy bacon crumbles. Simply cook bacon until crispy, crumble it, and sprinkle over the top.
- Shredded Parmesan: For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle additional shredded Parmesan cheese on top. It will melt slightly and create a delightful crust.
- Chopped Nuts: Add some crunch with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. They provide a contrast in texture and a hint of nuttiness.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives for a burst of freshness and color.
- Crumbled Feta Cheese: For a tangy twist, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. It adds a nice contrast to the creamy spinach.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chop and sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of umami flavor and a pop of color.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, savory addition that complements the spinach perfectly.
- Crispy Shallots: Top with crispy fried shallots for a sweet and crispy finish. You can buy them pre-made or make them at home.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of AQFheat, sprinkle red pepper flakes. This adds a touch of spice that contrasts well with the creamy spinach.
- Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus note that brightens the dish.
Experiment with these toppings to find your favorite combination and enhance the flavor and texture of your Keto Creamed Spinach!
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh for your Keto Creamed Spinach. Here’s how to handle it:
- Thaw Thoroughly: Allow the frozen spinach to thaw completely. You can do this by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Drain Excess Moisture: Once thawed, squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. You can use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to press out the water. This step is crucial to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Cook as Usual: After draining, you can use the frozen spinach in the recipe just as you would fresh spinach. Simply add it to the pan and proceed with the cooking instructions.
Using frozen spinach is a convenient option and works well in recipes like creamed spinach. Just be sure to manage the moisture content to maintain the right texture and consistency.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make Keto Creamed Spinach dairy-free, you can use the following substitutions:
- Cream: Replace heavy cream with a non-dairy milk or cream alternative. Options include:
- Coconut Cream: Offers a rich, creamy texture. Use full-fat coconut cream for the best results.
- Almond Milk: Choose unsweetened almond milk for a lower fat content. You might need to add a thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot powder to achieve the desired consistency.
- Cream Cheese: Substitute with a dairy-free cream cheese. There are several plant-based cream cheese options available, made from ingredients like nuts or soy.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Nutritional yeast is a popular vegan ingredient that adds a savory, umami taste similar to cheese. You can also use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese substitute if available.
- Butter: Replace butter with a non-dairy alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil. Both options will work well in the recipe.
Recipe Adjustments:
- Prepare the Spinach: Sauté the spinach as directed.
- Make the Dairy-Free Cream Mixture: Blend your chosen non-dairy cream or milk with dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast until smooth.
- Combine and Cook: Stir the dairy-free mixture into the cooked spinach. Simmer until heated through and the flavors meld together.
By using these substitutions, you can enjoy a dairy-free version of Keto Creamed Spinach that fits your dietary needs while still being rich and creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Keto Creamed Spinach ahead of time. Here’s how to properly prepare, store, and reheat it:
Making Ahead
- Prepare the Dish: Follow the recipe instructions and cook the Keto Creamed Spinach as usual.
- Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess.
Storing
- Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled creamed spinach to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Portioning it into smaller containers can make reheating easier.
Reheating
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw the creamed spinach in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed. If the mixture is too thick after reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to reach the desired consistency.
Additional Tips
- Consistency: The texture may change slightly after freezing and reheating. Adding a bit of extra cream or milk can help restore its creamy consistency.
- Avoid Overheating: Reheat gently to avoid overcooking or burning the dish.
Making Keto Creamed Spinach ahead of time is a convenient way to have a delicious, low-carb side dish ready to go for your meals!
What can I serve with Keto Creamed Spinach?
Keto Creamed Spinach pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, enhancing your low-carb meals with its rich, creamy texture. Here are some great options:
- Grilled or Roasted Meats:
- Grilled Chicken: A simple, lean protein that complements the creaminess of the spinach.
- Roast Beef or Pork: The savory flavors of roasted meats work well with the rich texture of creamed spinach.
- Grilled Steak: A hearty choice that balances nicely with the creamy side.
- Seafood:
- Baked Salmon: The mild, flaky texture of salmon pairs beautifully with the rich and creamy spinach.
- Shrimp: Sautéed or grilled shrimp can be a delicious addition, providing a light and flavorful contrast.
- Keto-Friendly Side Dishes:
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to traditional rice that soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles): A great low-carb substitute for pasta, which pairs well with the richness of the spinach.
- Roasted Vegetables: Low-carb veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a crunchy, flavorful contrast.
- Egg Dishes:
- Omelets: A fluffy omelet filled with vegetables or cheese complements the creamed spinach.
- Frittata: A keto-friendly frittata with herbs and cheese can be a satisfying meal when paired with creamed spinach.
- Salads:
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with leafy greens and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy spinach.
- Cobb Salad: Loaded with proteins like bacon, chicken, and hard-boiled eggs, this salad pairs well with the rich flavors of the creamed spinach.
These pairings not only complement the Keto Creamed Spinach but also contribute to a well-rounded, low-carb meal.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!