When you think about savory and cream cheese, you probably think about using it on a breakfast bagel, maybe topped with sliced onions or smoked salmon. And while that is a legit — and delicious — way to use cream cheese, it can do so much more to elevate appetizers, dinners and sides. Read on for 9 savory recipes featuring cream cheese — many you might not expect.
Cauliflower Cheese Casserole
Cauliflower cheese casserole makes it easy for everyone to enjoy more veggies. This creamy dish uses cream cheese to create a rich texture that replaces traditional potato sides at holiday dinners or get-togethers. Be sure to make a little extra because people will definitely come back for more.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Cheese Casserole
Slow Cooker Caesar Chicken With Pasta
Caesar Chicken with Pasta in the Slow Cooker takes the hassle out of dinner. The creamy sauce, featuring cream cheese, pairs perfectly with pasta and makes tasty leftovers for wraps, salads or sandwiches. This dish shines as a true multitasker for those busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Caesar Chicken With Pasta
Egg Avocado Cheddar Bacon Breakfast Sandwich
This avocado and cheddar egg breakfast sandwich skips the bread and uses round egg pieces as the holders instead of buns. By adding cream cheese, this morning meal brings protein and healthy fats together in a fresh way that tastes fantastic. No bagel necessary.
Get the Recipe: Egg Avocado Cheddar Bacon Breakfast Sandwich
Low Carb Spinach Artichoke Dip in the Crock Pot
Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip brings the party favorite right to your kitchen. Just mix everything together, set the timer and let it do its thing. The cream cheese melts beautifully into the spinach and artichokes, creating a creamy dip that everyone loves. Serve this at your next gathering and watch it vanish in no time.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Spinach Artichoke Dip in the Crock Pot
Keto Shrimp and Grits with Ground Lupin
When you make a keto version of shrimp and grits, you need to skip the traditional grits due to their high carb count. Instead, this recipe uses ground lupin, also known as lupin meal, which serves as a fantastic substitute. The addition of cream cheese adds creaminess to the dish, making it a great choice for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Keto Shrimp and Grits with Ground Lupin
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Roll
In my opinion, this recipe for smoked salmon cucumber roll is the perfect appetizer for holidays, family gatherings or anytime you want a refreshing, low-carb dish to serve for a party. There’s just something about the combination of fresh dill, capers, cream cheese and smoked salmon.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Cucumber Roll
Low Carb Stuffed Pork Chops with Creamed Spinach
This recipe for low carb stuffed pork chops with creamed spinach is a one-pan wonder. It’s not only rich in flavor but also quick and easy to prepare. The tender pork chops are stuffed with creamy, garlicky spinach made even better with cream cheese.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Stuffed Pork Chops with Creamed Spinach
Italian Sausage and Pepper Pasta in One Pot
Italian Sausage and Pepper Pasta in One Pot brings bold flavors with minimal cleanup. This quick dinner is ready in under 30 minutes. By adding cream cheese, you create a creamy sauce that ties everything together beautifully. The one-pot method truly makes life easier, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage and Pepper Pasta in One Pot
Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip
This Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip uses two kinds of cheesy goodness — cream cheese and mozzarella — and no mayo whatsoever. If you enjoy ordering spinach artichoke dip at Applebee’s or another restaurant, you’ll love how with this recipe, you can mix everything together in the crock, set the timer and walk away. It’s done in no time.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip