This rich, creamy keto creamed spinach brings back memories of the creamed spinach my grandmother used to make. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and low in carbs — perfect as a side or a comforting dish on its own.
I’m excited to share this keto-friendly version of a classic. My grandmother never wrote her recipes down, but hers was always perfectly creamy. This version captures that same texture and flavor while keeping the dish low carb and suitable for keto eating.
Let’s talk about spinach!
Spinach is an excellent leafy green for a low-carb or keto plan. It’s low in calories and nutrient-dense, providing antioxidants, calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, along with fiber. Spinach is versatile: enjoy it raw in salads or cook it by blanching, sautéing, or steaming. It also works well in casseroles, dips, egg dishes, pestos, sauces, smoothies, and soups.
Best way to cook the spinach
For this recipe we blanch the spinach: add it to boiling water for a short time, then drain. After boiling for about 3 minutes, drain the spinach in a colander and rinse with cold water. Removing excess water is crucial — press out liquid with a spoon, then wrap the cooled spinach in paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. Roughly chop the spinach and it will be ready to fold into the sauce.
Tips for making the sauce
The sauce becomes wonderfully creamy using simple keto ingredients. Finely dice the onion so it softens quickly. Add garlic in the last minute of sautéing to prevent burning. Make sure the cream cheese is softened and cut into cubes so it melts smoothly. Stir or whisk the sauce often while the heavy cream reduces and thickens. Freshly grated parmesan from a block melts best and has no additives. Once the cheese is melted, fold in the chopped spinach and simmer just until heated through. This dish reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Keto main dishes that pair well
This creamed spinach complements a variety of keto main dishes, such as roasted or grilled meats, keto-style casseroles, and baked fish. Its rich, creamy texture pairs particularly well with steaks, roasted chicken, and savory meatloaf.
Helpful Hints:
* Squeeze out as much water from the spinach as possible for the creamiest result.
* Soften and cube the cream cheese before adding it to the sauce to ensure it melts evenly.
Main Kitchen Equipment and Utensils:
- Large stockpot
- Colander
- Large skillet
Splash of Encouragement:
***For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. Psalm 91:11***
Awesome Keto Creamed Spinach
8 Servings
20 minutes
20 minutes
40 minutes
This keto creamed spinach is rich, creamy, and reminiscent of a treasured family recipe — but low carb and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 30 ounces fresh spinach, stems removed
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons finely diced onion
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
- Add the spinach, cover, and cook for 3 minutes.
- Drain the spinach in a colander and rinse with cold water.
- When cool enough to handle, squeeze out as much water as possible. Roughly chop and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add butter and olive oil. Once the butter melts, add the onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the garlic during the last minute.
- Add the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat to medium and continue stirring until the cream cheese melts, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the parmesan and simmer until melted, 1–2 minutes.
- Add the chopped spinach, stir to combine, and simmer until heated through. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 260Total Fat: 23gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 63mgSodium: 506mgCarbohydrates: 6.2gNet Carbohydrates: 3.7gFiber: 2.5gSugar: 2gProtein: 10g
Nutrition values are approximate and provided as an estimate. Values vary by brand and ingredient choices. Net carbs shown are total carbs minus fiber.
Did you make this recipe?
Please leave a comment or share a photo on Instagram.