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Keto creamy green beans in garlic Parmesan cream sauce

Keto Creamy Green Beans

Tender green beans tossed in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce for an easy low carb side dish that works for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ pounds fresh green beans trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • ¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional
  • 2 tablespoons extra Parmesan for serving optional

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the green beans and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Drain well and set aside.
  4. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream.
  7. Simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes.
  8. Stir in the Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
  9. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  10. Add the green beans.
  11. Toss to coat them evenly in the sauce.
  12. Simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  13. Remove from heat.
  14. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
  15. Serve warm.

Notes

Fresh green beans give the best texture.
Frozen green beans can be used, but thaw and dry them first.
Don’t boil the cream sauce aggressively.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
If the sauce gets too thick, add a small splash of heavy cream.
If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a little longer before adding the beans.
Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in short microwave intervals.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

Calories: approximately 230
Protein: approximately 8g
Fat: approximately 19g
Total Carbohydrates: approximately 10g
Fiber: approximately 4g
Net Carbs: approximately 6g