Keto Cheese Sauce is an easy and delicious way to top off your low-carb main dishes with flavor without going out of your macros for the day. This is far from the processed cheese sauces that might include starches or fillers, and my take is super easy to make using keto-friendly ingredients. It’s made with heavy cream, butter, and shredded cheese that melt together to form a rich, velvety sauce. Mozzarella, cheddar, Gouda, or mixed cheese, according to preference.
You can add your favorite seasonings (like garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika, or cayenne) just to amp up the flavor and add some complexity. It even naturally thickens once you let it simmer. No need for flour or cornstarch here, which is heavenly if you are looking for a keto-friendly sauce!
It’s also very versatile – you can pour over some steamed vegetable (like broccoli or cauliflower) or top your meats (like this pork roast or our absolutely fantastic slow cooker beef roast). You can even use it as a dip when paired with your favorite low-carb crackers (or bread). It’s also a wonderful addition to casseroles, burgers, or even scrambled eggs.
High in fats but moderate in protein, keto cheese sauce is filling and rejuvenating. It’s a fast one to put together, taking usually less than 10 minutes, and it does keep well for reheating. Rich, smooth, and full of flavor, this sauce is a must-have for your low-carb lifestyle.
Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat
- Reduce heat and gradually add cheddar and mozzarella, whisking until melted
- Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Simmer a few minutes longer for a thicker sauce
- Pour on top of broccoli, cauliflower or keto nachos
Notes
Flavour Profile of Keto Cheese Sauce
- Rich & Velvety– Rich creaminess comes from adding butter and heavy cream to the sauce.
- Cheesy & Savory- Just try to refrain from eating it by the spoonful! Sharp cheddar cheese (or cheeses) provides impactful, tangy depth, which pumps up the flavor volume in this recipe.
- Buttery & Comforting– Butter adds some creamy bass notes and helps round flavours.
- Garlicky & Spiced (Optional)- The garlic, paprika, and mustard powder add mild heat and complexity.
- Smooth & Versatile- Drizzle over your veggies, meats, or low-carb pasta!
Keto Cheese Sauce Nutrition and Calories
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 180–200 kcal |
| Total Fat | 17–18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10–11 g |
| Protein | 6–7 g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Net Carbs | 2 g |
| Sugar | <1 g |
| Sodium | 250–350 mg |
FAQs
Q1. What amount of Carbs are there In Cheese Sauce?
A1. About 2 net carbs per ¼ cup serving.
Q2. What kind of cheese for keto cheese sauce?
A2. Good old sharp cheddar, for vintage appeal, but by all means go rogue with some other forms of cheese — Parmesan is classic, mozzarella is soothingly creamy, and cream cheese makes them very snacky indeed.
Q3. How do you thicken cheese without flour?
A3. Let it simmer to reduce or stir in a bit of cream cheese or xanthan gum.
Q4. Am I able to use keto cheese sauce without dairy?
A4. Yes — substitute out with nutritional yeast and coconut cream.
Hi, I’m Candice Knauer!
I’m passionate about creating delicious, healthy meals that make the keto lifestyle simple and enjoyable. What started as my personal journey into low-carb cooking has grown into a collection of recipes that I love sharing with others who want to feel their best while still enjoying great food.