This keto creamed spinach with mushrooms and bacon is a rich yet balanced low-carb side dish that combines creamy textures with savory flavors. Fresh spinach is gently cooked and folded into a smooth cheese-based sauce with sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon, creating a comforting dish that still fits a keto lifestyle.
The earthy vegetables, smoky bacon, and creamy sauce work together beautifully, making this recipe ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish, and comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
Equipment
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Second skillet for spinach
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 slices bacon, chopped
- 10 ounces baby spinach
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the mushrooms and onion and cook until softened and lightly browned.
- In a separate skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the spinach. Cook until fully wilted, then squeeze out excess liquid and set aside.
- Add the chopped bacon to the mushroom mixture and cook until crisp.
- Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the nutmeg, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and stir until fully melted and creamy.
- Fold in the drained spinach and mix well.
- Season with salt and black pepper and serve warm.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 5
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Side dish
How to store
Let the dish cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through.
What not to do
Do not add spinach without draining it well, as excess moisture will thin the sauce.
Do not cook the cream sauce over high heat, or it may separate.
Do not skip seasoning, since dairy-based sauces need salt to balance the flavors.
Tips & Variations
Use fresh spinach for the best texture, or frozen spinach if fully thawed and squeezed dry.
Add red pepper flakes for mild heat.
Swap mozzarella with Gruyère or cheddar for a deeper flavor.
Top with extra Parmesan and briefly broil for a lightly golden finish.
Approximate Nutrition
- Calories: ~215
- Fat: ~18 g
- Protein: ~10 g
- Total carbohydrates: ~5 g
- Net carbs: ~4 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
Keto creamed spinach with mushrooms and bacon
Ingredients
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the mushrooms and onion and cook until softened and lightly browned.
- In a separate skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the spinach. Cook until fully wilted, then squeeze out excess liquid and set aside.
- Add the chopped bacon to the mushroom mixture and cook until crisp.
- Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the nutmeg, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and stir until fully melted and creamy.
- Fold in the drained spinach and mix well.
- Season with salt and black pepper and serve warm.
Notes
- Fat: ~18 g
- Protein: ~10 g
- Total carbohydrates: ~5 g
- Net carbs: ~4 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
Conclusion
This keto creamed spinach with mushrooms and bacon is a nourishing way to enjoy vegetables while staying low in carbs. Spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals, while healthy fats from dairy help promote satiety. It’s a flavorful, satisfying side dish that fits well into keto and low-carb eating patterns.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well as long as it is fully thawed and squeezed dry before using.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared in advance and reheated gently before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add more protein?
Yes, cooked chicken or additional bacon can be added without changing the method.
What main dishes pair well with this recipe?
It pairs well with grilled steak, baked chicken, pork chops, or roasted fish.
