Keto Creamy Spinach Gratin

To make a keto-friendly version of this Creamy Spinach Gratin, we’ll substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use heavy cream instead of milk for a lower-carb content.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 2 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg
  • 5 (10 oz) boxes frozen spinach, chopped and defrosted
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese or Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or gratin dish and set it aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
    • Sprinkle the almond flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, until it becomes golden brown and fragrant.
    • Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture until it thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Season the sauce with kosher salt, nutmeg, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
  3. Add Spinach and Cheese:
    • Add the chopped and defrosted spinach to the sauce, stirring well to combine. Allow the ingredients to simmer for an extra 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously.
    • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully incorporated into the spinach mixture.
  4. Bake the Gratin:
    • Transfer the creamy spinach mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
    • Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack or Gruyere cheese over the top of the spinach mixture, creating a generous layer of cheese.
    • Bake the Spinach Gratin in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
  5. Serve:
    • Once baked to perfection, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
    • Serve the Creamy Spinach Gratin warm as a delightful side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or your favorite main course.

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 22g
    • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 2g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Protein: 8g

Tips:

  • Thickening the Sauce: If you find that the almond flour doesn’t thicken the sauce as much as you’d like, you can add a pinch of xanthan gum to help achieve the desired consistency.
  • Extra Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine to the sauce.
  • Variations: You can mix in other keto-friendly vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

This Keto Creamy Spinach Gratin is a delicious, low-carb side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Enjoy!