All I can say is: I did that 😌. Listen, there is no need to search for the best creamed spinach recipe because you’re already here. I’m sure you’ll enjoy this low carb/keto cream spinach.
First post of the 2022 year! Woo Hoo! LOL. Anyway, I not sure what prompted me to wake up and say, “Let’s create a recipe for creamed spinach!” or the fact that I just got tired of paying Ruth Chris $15 for a side of this good stuff. Either way, I’m happy to announce that I’ll be saving a lot more money from now on!
Creamed spinach is good, but no one really talks about how it it complements many dishes. It doesn’t hurt to mention that it is a low-carb side dish. Furthermore, there’s this Mediterranean spot called Aviva in ATL that serves it on certain days and it doesn’t take away from babaganosh, falafels, or lentils. Basically, I’m saying all this to say….make this recipe and keep it in you refrigerator as side for EVERYTHING.
Reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
- Perfect for people on the keto diet
- Low in net carbs
- Classic recipe and perfect side dish
- Spinach is a powerhouse vegetable that is high in fiber.
- Versatile recipe as it is similar to spinach dip
Basic keto requirements
- A ketogenic diet primarily focuses on high-fat, very low-carb, and moderate-protein intake.
What makes this recipe keto? (basic ingredients and moderate nutritional information)
- Spinach – Very low in carbs, rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Unsalted butter – High in fat, zero carbs.
- Garlic – Minimal carbs in the small amount used.
- Cream cheese – High in fat, moderate protein, and low in carbs.
- Heavy whipping cream – High in fat, low in carbs.
- Mozzarella cheese – Moderate fat and protein, low in carbs.
- Parmesan cheese – Moderate fat and protein, low in carbs.
- Salt – Zero carbs.
- Onion powder – Small amount used, negligible carbs.
- Black Pepper – Zero carbs.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – Minimal carbs in the small amount used.
Other dairy products that may suitable as alternatives:
- Clarified butter– or often referred to as Ghee, or can be mixed with a small amount of water to create a heavy cream substitute.
- Coconut Cream– High in fat and low in carbs, coconut cream can be used in savory dishes.
If you use any of the alternatives, leave a comment and let me know how it worked out for you!
Frequently asked Questions:
- How do I store the leftovers for this recipe?
- Store ingredients in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- How do I reheat this recipe after storing it in the refrigerator?
- To reheat, you can use a microwave or oven.
What makes this delicious recipe so good?
- Rich in Flavor – the combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, and heavy cream makes the dish both savory and comforting.
- Seasonings and Garlic – Add depth to the flavor profile.
For more of my favorite side dish recipes, check out my Honey Crispy Brussels.
For more detailed instructions on the full recipe, please review the recipe card below.
Keto Creamed Spinach
Keto creamed spinach is the perfect side dish.
Ingredients
- 15 oz fresh spinach, blanched
- 2 tbs of unsalted butter
- 7 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese
- 2/3 cup of parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt for blanching, 1 tsp for cooking
- 2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- Crush red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Set aside a large bowl of ice cold water. Make sure it is near the stove for the next part.
- Using a large pot or dutch oven, pour 5 cups of water and bring to a boil.
- Next, add a teaspoon of kosher salt.
- Add a cup of raw spinach (add in increments) to the boil pot of water for a minute and immediately transfer the leafy green to the bowl of ice water. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer to a cutting board and use a paper towel to squeeze the excess water out and then roughly chop the spinach.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add onion powder and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes and cook for 20 seconds or until you get the garlicky aroma.
- Next, use cream cheese to add to the mixture and repeatedly stir until completely melted.
- Once the cream cheese is melted, add a bit of heavy cream in increments and cook for 2 minutes on medium low heat. Adjust seasonings if you need to.
- Once the mixture is simmering for about 2 minutes, add mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Stir until combines. Remember to add additional salt, pepper or onion powder to the mixture if needed .
- Carefully fold in the spinach into the mixture and reduce heat on low for 3 minutes.
- Serve in a side dish and enjoy!
Blanching Instructions:
Notes
Note: Any extra spinach can be stored in a freezer bag for later use.