If you're trying to get more greens on the table, this Spinach with Bacon and Garlic Stir Fry is the easiest way to do it. I mean… even people who "don't like spinach" will suddenly love it once you add crispy bacon and smashed garlic. Bacon really does make everything better. 😆

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This dish comes together fast, uses simple ingredients, and is naturally paleo, gluten-free, and low-carb. Perfect as a quick veggie side for pretty much any dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bacon + garlic = instant flavor - even picky eaters will love it.
- Fast & easy - ready in under 15 minutes.
- Healthy-ish - tons of nutrients from the spinach.
- Paleo & gluten-free - no swaps needed.
- Pairs with everything - from chicken to steak to seafood.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped or smashed
- 2 bunches spinach (or 10-12 oz baby spinach)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and adding the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is almost crispy and has released enough fat to coat the pan. Once it's nearly done, add the chopped or smashed garlic and stir it in, letting it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add all the spinach to the pan. It will look like a lot at first, but it wilts quickly. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together, stirring until the spinach softens and cooks down. Continue stir frying for a few more minutes, until the greens are fully wilted and coated in the bacon-garlic mixture.

Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste - you may only need a small amount since the bacon is already salty. Give everything a final toss, then remove from heat and serve immediately while the bacon is still crisp.

Spinach with Bacon and Garlic Stir Fry Recipe
This Spinach with Bacon and Garlic Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful veggie side dish made with crispy bacon, fragrant garlic, and tender wilted spinach. Simple, savory, and naturally paleo, low-carb, and gluten-free!
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped or smashed
- 2 bunches spinach (or 10–12 oz baby spinach)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is almost crispy and has released its fat.
- Add the garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Add all the spinach to the skillet. Toss and stir fry for 5–7 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down and becomes tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a final toss and serve immediately.
Notes
- Bacon is salty on its own, so add salt sparingly.
- Baby spinach cooks faster; whole spinach gives more texture.
- Add-ons: red pepper flakes, a drizzle of sesame oil, or sliced onions.
- Great with chicken, beef, pork, or seafood dishes.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 54Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 176mgCarbohydrates: 3gFiber: 1gSugar: 0gProtein: 4g
The nutrition information for this recipe is an approximate total per serving. Please double check the nutrition information for your exact ingredients and brands for more precise nutrition information. Keep in mind that if there is a marinade, often times not all the ingredients will be consumed.
More Delicious Spinach Recipes!
If you love easy veggie dishes like this Spinach Stir Fry with Garlic, here are more tasty recipes featuring spinach:
Spinach Stir Fry with Garlic - A quick, fragrant veggie side dish made with tender spinach and smashed garlic, ready in just a few minutes.
Stir Fry Spinach and Mushrooms - A quick and savory stir fry with tender spinach, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant garlic.
Pan Seared Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms - Juicy pan-seared salmon served over garlicky spinach and sautéed mushrooms - an easy weeknight dinner.
15-Minute Vegetable Tofu Soup - A light, comforting soup made with tofu, veggies, and tender spinach (or any Asian greens you have on hand).
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jennifer says
REally simple and delicious . . lol is there anything bacon can't make even more amazing (because I already am a spinach fan).