Air Fryer Creamy Spinach Casserole
A Rich and Cheesy Spinach Casserole with Garlic, Cream Cheese, and Parmesan
This Air Fryer Creamy Spinach Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful side dish that’s incredibly easy to make. Fresh spinach is combined with a creamy garlic cheese sauce, Parmesan, mozzarella, and herbs, then air fried until golden, bubbly, and perfectly delicious.This recipe is a great low-carb and keto-friendly option that works beautifully for family dinners, holiday meals, brunches, or as a simple healthy side dish. The air fryer gives the casserole a lightly golden top while keeping the center creamy and rich.Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, seafood, or enjoy it with crusty bread or crackers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Spinach Casserole
6 cups fresh spinach (or 3 cups frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
2 tablespoons butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Topping
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Add-Ins
Cooked shredded chicken
Crispy bacon pieces
Mushrooms
Artichoke hearts
Sun-dried tomatoes
Red pepper flakes
Feta cheese
Chopped jalapeños
Equipment
Air fryer
Air fryer-safe baking dish
Mixing bowl
Skillet
Spatula
Instructions
Prepare the Spinach
If using fresh spinach:
Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Allow it to cool slightly, then squeeze out excess moisture.
If using frozen spinach:
Thaw completely and squeeze out as much water as possible.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream.
Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add:
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Mix well.
Combine the Ingredients
Add spinach to the creamy sauce.
Stir in:
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Cheddar cheese (if using)
Fresh parsley
Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Prepare for Air Frying
Preheat the air fryer to:
350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes
Transfer the spinach mixture into a greased air fryer-safe baking dish.
Spread evenly.
Top with:
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Air Fry the Casserole
Place the dish into the air fryer.
Cook at:
350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes
until:
The cheese is melted and golden.
The casserole is hot and bubbling.
The edges are lightly browned.
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy spinach casserole with:
Grilled chicken
Steak
Roasted salmon
Air fryer shrimp
Garlic bread
Crackers
Fresh salad
Roasted vegetables
Tips for Perfect Creamy Spinach Casserole
Remove as much water as possible from spinach to avoid a watery casserole.
Use softened cream cheese for a smoother texture.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds more flavor.
Do not overcook, as the cheese sauce can separate.
Let the casserole rest before serving so it thickens slightly.
Variations
Spinach Artichoke Casserole
Add chopped artichoke hearts for a classic spinach artichoke flavor.
Chicken Spinach Casserole
Add cooked shredded chicken for a complete high-protein meal.
Keto Spinach Casserole
Use full-fat dairy and avoid bread crumbs for a low-carb version.
Mediterranean Spinach Casserole
Add feta cheese, olives, and oregano.
Spicy Spinach Casserole
Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at:
325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes
until warm and creamy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 285
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 520mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Frozen spinach works very well, but make sure to drain and squeeze out all excess water.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Absolutely. Cooked chicken, bacon, or shrimp are excellent additions.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Creamy Spinach Casserole is a delicious combination of tender spinach, rich cream cheese, garlic, and melted cheese. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it makes a perfect side dish or a satisfying low-carb meal for any occasion.