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Creamy Low-Carb Creamed Spinach Recipe Easy Perfect Side Dish

creamy low-carb creamed spinach - featured image

A quick and easy creamy low-carb creamed spinach side dish that is rich, indulgent, and perfect for keto or low-carb diets. Made with simple ingredients like fresh spinach, cream cheese, and cottage cheese for a velvety texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup small-curd cottage cheese, drained
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and prep the spinach: rinse about 10 cups of fresh baby spinach under cold water to remove grit. Spin dry in a salad spinner or pat with towels (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add spinach to the pan in batches, stirring gently. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until fully softened and most moisture evaporates.
  4. Transfer the cooked spinach to a colander and press out any extra water using the back of a spoon to prevent watery creamed spinach.
  5. In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, drained cottage cheese, and heavy cream. Whisk or blend with an immersion blender until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes).
  6. Return the drained spinach to the skillet over low heat. Pour in the creamy cheese blend and gently stir to combine. Heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld but avoid boiling.
  7. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep stirring gently until cheese melts and mixture thickens slightly.
  8. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Serve warm. If too thick, add a splash more heavy cream.

Notes

Drain the cooked spinach thoroughly to avoid watery creamed spinach. Use softened cream cheese to prevent lumps. Keep heat low when adding Parmesan to avoid curdling. For dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamed spinach, low-carb, keto, side dish, creamy spinach, easy recipe, healthy, quick dinner