The BEST Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe 🧀 (2024)

Published: · Updated: by Cast Iron Keto · 1 Comment

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Get ready to elevate your keto game with our irresistible Keto Cheese Sauce! Melted butter, cream cheese, and cheddar blend into a creamy symphony that'll make your taste buds dance. Whether you're drizzling it over steamed vegetables, stirring it into zoodles, or using it as a dip, this cheese sauce is the answer to all your low-carb, high-flavor dreams.

The BEST Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe 🧀 (1)
Jump to:
  • Preparation and cooking overview
  • Chef's note
  • 🧀 Ingredients for this keto cheese sauce recipe
  • Ingredient substitutions
  • Additional ingredients
  • Cooking tools required
  • How to make Keto Cheese Sauce: step-by-step guide
  • Cooking methods
  • Preparation steps
  • Cooking instructions
  • What to serve with keto cheese sauce?
  • How to make it healthier?
  • How to make this cheese sauce vegan/dairy-free?
  • Time-saving tip
  • What can I prepare ahead of time?
  • Storage and reheating instructions
  • Recipe wrap-up and conclusion
  • Frequently asked questions
  • 📖 Recipe

Preparation and cooking overview

Making this Keto Cheese Dip takes only 15 minutes. Simply melt butter in a heated skillet, add heavy cream, and stir until warm. Then, gradually incorporate cream cheese and freshly shredded cheddar, stirring until everything melts together into a smooth and creamy delight. You'll have a delicious homemade cheese sauce ready to devour.

Chef's note

When it comes to this cheese sauce recipe, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Try swapping out the mild cheddar for a spicy pepper jack or a tangy gouda for an exciting twist. And if you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some chopped bacon or diced tomatoes for added texture and flavor. You can also make it to use Keto Mac and Cheese!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 8 Servings

For more inspiration check out our Dips recipe.

🧀 Ingredients for this keto cheese sauce recipe

Let's make some low-carb cheese sauce with the following simple ingredients!

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 10 ounces heavy cream
  • 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened and cut into small blocks
  • 8 ounces mild cheddar freshly, shredded
  • ½ tablespoon Keto Taco Seasoning
The BEST Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe 🧀 (2)

Ingredient substitutions

Don't fret if there's a particular ingredient you don't have. These handy substitutions are here to save the day:

  • Cheddar: If you prefer a different taste, experiment with other keto-friendly options like shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack for an extra tangy flavor.
  • Taco seasoning: If you aren't using this seasoning, you can just use sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Additional ingredients

Enhance the flavor profile of this keto cheddar cheese sauce with the following optional ingredients:

  • Diced jalapeños: For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños to the sauce. The heat and flavor of jalapeños will complement the creamy cheese base.
  • Crispy bacon bits: Crumble some crispy bacon over the cheese sauce for added texture and a savory touch.
  • Cayenne pepper: If you like a spicy sauce, adding a dash of cayenne pepper can take the heat level up a notch.
  • Unsweetened almond milk: If you're looking to adjust the consistency of the sauce or make it slightly lighter, you can incorporate a splash of unsweetened almond milk.
  • Cheese: Experiment with different flavors by adding Parmesan or Swiss cheese to the cheese mixture.

To make this keto cheese sauce recipe, you will need the following tools:

How to make Keto Cheese Sauce: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Simmering

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure all the ingredients.
  2. Cut cream cheese into chunks.
  3. Shred cheddar cheese.
  4. Prepare taco seasoning.

Cooking instructions

  1. Heat a 10" or larger cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
  2. Melt butter in a skillet, add heavy cream, stir to warm, but don't boil.
  3. Slowly add cream cheese in small chunks, stirring constantly, until cream cheese is melted and smooth.
  4. After cream cheese is completely incorporated, add cheddar cheese, stirring constantly to combine until melted. Add taco seasoning to taste. Serve immediately.
The BEST Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe 🧀 (3)

Chef's pro tip

To ensure a smooth and creamy texture, be patient and stir continuously over medium heat until all the cheeses are completely melted and incorporated. Avoid raising the heat too high, as it can cause the sauce to separate. Take your time, savor the cooking process, and watch the ingredients transform into a heavenly cheese sauce!

What to serve with keto cheese sauce?

  • Keto pita chips: Serve the cheese sauce with Keto Pita Chips for a delightful and satisfying crunch, making a perfect low-carb snack or appetizer that's sure to be a hit at any gathering!
  • Roasted veggies: Serve your favorite veggies in steamed or roasted form to dip and scoop the delicious sauce.
  • Roasted Chicken: Pair your roasted chicken with keto cheese sauce for a sumptuous and creamy twist.
  • Keto sliders: Add this delicious sauce in a keto slider or dip your burger in this dipping sauce for a cheesy twist!

How to make it healthier?

  • Choose organic heavy cream, cream cheese, and mild cheddar.
  • Make your own keto taco seasoning to have more control over the ingredients and reduce the sodium content.

How to make this cheese sauce vegan/dairy-free?

To make this Keto Cheese Sauce dairy free and vegan, make the following swaps:

Time-saving tip

Use store-bought pre-shredded mild cheddar cheese as it eliminates the need for shredding the cheese yourself, making the preparation process quicker and easier.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Soften cream cheese in advance: Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator a little earlier to let it soften at room temperature. This way, it will be easier to incorporate into the sauce smoothly.
  • Prepare taco seasoning beforehand: Mix the spices in the desired quantities and store the homemade taco seasoning in an airtight container. This way, you can simply grab the pre-made seasoning when making the cheese sauce.
The BEST Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe 🧀 (4)

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Refrigerator: Allow the leftover cheese sauce to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag. Then, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: To freeze, store the sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion. Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating best practices

  • Stovetop: Pour the refrigerated or thawed sauce into a skillet and heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of unsweetened almond milk to thin it if it has thickened in the refrigerator.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

And there you have it, a simple and delightful Keto Cheese Sauce that's perfect for those following a keto diet or anyone who loves rich and creamy flavors. This sauce is versatile, allowing you to pair it with everything from roasted chicken to keto pita chips. It's not only a great way to add excitement to everyday meals but also a showstopper for special occasions. Quick to whip up and packed with taste, this cheese sauce is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Love dipping and scooping? Here are some delicious keto sauce recipes!

  • Tirokafteri
  • Keto Puttanesca Sauce
  • Tzatziki Sauce
  • Homemade Keto Salsa Verde
  • Keto Mango Salsa
  • Keto Seafood Dip
  • Spicy Gouda Bacon Dip
  • Keto Reuben Dip
  • 7 Layer Taco Dip

Frequently asked questions

Yes, the cheese sauce can be keto-friendly, depending on its ingredients. The recipe for this cheese sauce focuses on using low-carb ingredients and is suitable for a ketogenic diet.

The exact carb content may vary depending on the ingredients and quantities used. This cheese sauce recipeis low in carbs and contains around 2 grams of carbs per serving.

Ideal cheeses for sauces include cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and Parmesan. Cheddar is particularly favored for its rich, creamy, tangy cheese sauce blend.

While most cheese varieties are generally low in carbs, it's important to consider portion sizes and individual dietary needs to ensure they fit into your daily carb allowance.

For a delightful Queso Blanco-style cheese sauce perfect for Mexican dishes like nachos and burrito bowls, switch out cheddar for shredded Monterey jack cheese or vegan Violife Smoked Provolone. Enhance the flavor with minced jalapeño for an authentic touch.

📖 Recipe

The BEST Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe 🧀 (5)

Keto Cheese Sauce

This Keto Cheese Sauce recipe is perfect for broccoli, nachos, cauliflower, mac and cheese, pretzels, and more! Can be made without heavy cream and even made dairy-free and vegan if preferred.

5 from 6 votes

Print Rate Pin Recipe

Course: Appetizer, basic

Cuisine: American

Keyword: keto cheese dip, keto cheese sauce, keto sauce, low carb, sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 335kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 10 ounces heavy cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened and cut into small blocks
  • 8 ounces mild cheddar freshly shredded
  • ½ tablespoon keto taco seasoning

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Heat a 10" or larger cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

  • Melt butter in a skillet, add heavy cream, stir to warm, but don't boil.

  • Slowly add cream cheese in small chunks, stirring constantly, until cream cheese is melted and smooth.

  • After cream cheese is completely incorporated, add cheddar cheese, stirring constantly to combine until melted. Add taco seasoning to taste. Serve immediately.

Notes

If not using the taco seasoning, add the cheese then the salt and pepper to taste. This is perfect if you're serving the cheese sauce over broccoli and not a Mexican-inspired dish.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Keto Cheese Sauce

Amount Per Serving

Calories 335Calories from Fat 297

% Daily Value*

Fat 33g51%

Saturated Fat 20g125%

Trans Fat 1g

Cholesterol 109mg36%

Sodium 248mg11%

Potassium 76mg2%

Carbohydrates 2g1%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 1g1%

Protein 9g18%

Vitamin A 1185IU24%

Vitamin C 1mg1%

Calcium 243mg24%

Iron 1mg6%

*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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The BEST Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe 🧀 (2024)

FAQs

What is the best cheese for keto? ›

Some cheeses suit the keto diet better than others. This mainly comes down to their carb and fat content and level of processing. The best keto cheeses include cheddar, Gouda, goat cheese, and blue cheese, while the worst are cottage cheese and low fat and processed varieties.

How to make cheese sauce thicker without flour or cornstarch? ›

Slowly add a cup of the cheese sauce into the bowl containing the egg yolk, stirring to combine. Then add the mixture back into the cheese sauce on the stove, stirring to combine. Let the sauce boil over medium heat, and the cheese sauce should thicken.

Can too much cheese kick you out of keto? ›

Healthy Fats & Oils

Cheese is very low in carbs but contains high amounts of healthy fats and protein, making it a good addition to a ketogenic diet. However, you should have it in moderation and not go overboard with it.

Is Velveeta cheese allowed on keto diet? ›

Velveeta Cheese isn't considered keto-friendly. With a carb content of 9.8g per 100g, it far exceeds the very low carb intake typically associated with a ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet emphasizes consuming a maximum of around 20g to 50g of carbs per day, depending on your individual needs and goals.

What cheese is lowest in carbs? ›

Goat Cheese

It's also commonly referred to as Chèvre, which means “goat” in French. Goat cheese has 0 grams of carbohydrates and 9 grams of fat! Because of the protein structure differences when compared to cow's milk, goat cheese is often more easily digested and is naturally lower in lactose.

Can I eat cheese everyday on keto? ›

All types of cheese are allowed on the keto diet, as cheese is relatively low in carbohydrate, which complies with the key principle of the keto diet. The Ketogenic diet or “keto” diet is a low carbohydrate and high fat eating plan.

How to keep cheese sauce runny? ›

Cheese sauce can be kept from congealing by applying enough heat to keep it semi-liquid but not enough to scorch it or dry it out. A candle or an electric heat source can be used for this. A fondue pot is one type of vessel commonly used for the process.

What is a substitute for cornstarch in cheese sauce? ›

Potato starch also has the same thickening power as cornstarch, so you don't have to change the measurement. Substitute one tablespoon of potato starch for one tablespoon of cornstarch.

How do you thicken cheese sauce without cream? ›

Pour 500ml milk into a large saucepan and add 4 tbsp plain flour and 50g butter. Turn on the heat to medium and start to whisk the mixture. Keep whisking fast as the butter melts and the mixture comes to the boil – the flour will disappear and the sauce will begin to thicken.

What are big mistakes on keto? ›

Not watching your carb intake - Sugar and refined carbs are in many foods. You should be aiming to eliminate these from your keto diet. “Try to keep your net carb content under 20 grams/day or total carbs under 30 grams,” Dr Riggs says. Keep close track of your sugar and carb intake by reading nutrition labels.

What is the best keto cream cheese? ›

Philadelphia is one of the best brands of keto-friendly cream cheese. A 2-tablespoon serving of Philadelphia cream cheese contains 102 calories, 10 grams of fat, 1.8 grams of protein, and only 1.6 grams of carbohydrates. It's recommended to opt for plain or full-fat Philadelphia cream cheese for the keto diet.

Can I eat a banana on keto? ›

Despite the many health benefits of fruit, there is an issue with some fruits on the keto diet. Grapes and bananas, for instance, contain high quantities of carbs. 1 cup of grapes has approximately 26 grams and a medium banana, 24 grams of carbohydrate. As a rule, these fruits should be avoided.

What cheese is not allowed on keto? ›

Cottage cheese, like ricotta, is not as keto-friendly, and you should limit the amount you eat if you're on a strict keto diet, says Weiss. While cottage cheese is known for its high protein content, it also contains a relatively high amount of carbs and not that much fat, making it a less-than-ideal choice for keto.

Do you count carbs from cheese on keto? ›

Cheese tends to be low in carbs but high in fat, making it a good choice for keto diets. For example, 100 g of cheddar cheese has 2.44 g of carbs and 34 g of fat.

Can you eat chips and queso on keto? ›

Since the keto diet has a strict limit on carbs (only about 30 grams per day), that means no tortillas or chips (corn or flour), starchy vegetables (corn and potatoes), rice, beans or anything that might have hidden flour or sugar in it, like queso and salsa that's cooked.

Is mozzarella allowed on keto diet? ›

Some keto-friendly cheeses include cheddar, mozzarella, brie, feta, and parmesan. These cheeses are low in carbohydrates, with less than 1 gram of carbohydrate per serving, and high in fat, with 6-9 grams per serving.

Is Greek cheese good for keto? ›

Absolutely, you can eat feta cheese on a keto diet. This type of cheese is considered keto-friendly due to its low -carb content and high-fat profile. The goal of a ketogenic diet is to maintain a state of ketosis by consuming high fats, moderate proteins, and very low carbs.

What cheese is best for keto egg fast? ›

Full-fat cheese — Stick to cheeses with less than 1 g of net carbs per ounce. This includes cheddar, parmesan, swiss, feta, mozzarella, brie, Monterrey jack, cream cheese, mascarpone, and blue cheese. Only eat one ounce per egg.

Is sour cream keto-friendly? ›

Sour cream fits in with a keto diet because it's high in fat and low in carbs, as long as you choose the full-fat option. It contains about 19 grams of fat and 4.6 grams of carbs per 100 grams, which is about half a cup, according to the USDA.

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