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.

# Hashtag with us!Don't forget to mention @castiron_keto or tag #castironketo on Instagram with your creations! We love seeing what you're making.

The BEST Keto Cheese Sauce Recipe 🧀 (2024)

FAQs

What is the best cheese to eat on 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.

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.

How to make cheese sauce that doesn t harden? ›

For Smooth, Stable Cheese Sauces, Cornstarch and Evaporated Milk Are Your Friends. How to make a stable emulsion of melted cheese using two basic pantry staples.

Can you eat too much cheese on keto? ›

Consuming too much cheese on a keto diet can lead to an excessive intake of saturated fat and calories, which may hinder weight loss efforts. It's essential to maintain balance and moderation in food choices to achieve optimal results.

How many eggs can I eat for breakfast on keto? ›

We'll also share some great low-carb egg-based keto recipes. Eggs are keto-friendly and safe to eat when you're on the ketogenic diet. Eggs are low in carbs while containing high amounts of protein and healthy fats. You can have 6 to 7 eggs every day while on the keto diet.

Which fruit is keto-friendly? ›

Keto fruits by definition are low in carbohydrates. You still need to exercise portion control with most keto-friendly fruits to be within the limits of a keto diet. Keto-friendly fruits include avocados, watermelon, strawberries, lemons, tomatoes, raspberries, peaches, cantaloupe, star fruit, and blackberries.

Is Philadelphia cheese OK for keto? ›

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.

Does cream cheese break ketosis? ›

Cream cheese: Cream cheese is very popular in the keto diet. At only 84 calories per 1 ounce serving, it has 1 gram of carbs and 2 grams of protein but packs 8 grams of fat per serving. It can be a keto-friendly snack or meal addition when more fat is needed.

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.

What is the best melting cheese for sauce? ›

What is the best melting cheese? Cheeses with more moisture and lower melting points - cheddar is one of the most popular choices, but Swiss and Gruyère are also terrific options. Which melts better, mild or sharp cheddar? Mild cheddar melts more smoothly than sharper (more aged) cheddar.

How do you keep cheese sauce creamy? ›

Always keep the sauce over low heat so it's warm but not bubbling. If you have the time to bring your cheese and milk to room temperature first, that's another way to prevent a grainy, lumpy mess.

How to make cheese sauce taste better? ›

  1. Sub whole milk for at least part of the cream. Cream is heavy and mutes the flavor of cheese.
  2. Add a dash of garlic powder, dry mustard, and smoked paprika to the roux while it cooks. ...
  3. Temper a couple egg yolks and integrate into the sauce before you add cheese. ...
  4. Good cheese, and multiple cheeses!
Jul 4, 2017

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's the best cheese on keto? ›

The Best Cheeses To Eat On Keto
  • Cheddar. Cheddar is a famous yellow cheese. ...
  • Gouda. Gouda is a mildly sweet, creamy, yellow-hued cow's milk cheese. ...
  • Goat. Goat cheese sometimes called chevre, is a creamy cheese prepared from goat's milk. ...
  • Blue Cheese. Blue cheese is a special cheese. ...
  • Parmesan Cheese.
Jan 16, 2024

Is sour cream keto-friendly? ›

Regular, full fat sour cream is made from cream and contains far more fat than carbs. Therefore, it's considered keto-friendly. However, low fat or nonfat sour cream is not. Full fat sour cream can provide some variety in a keto diet when used as a dip base or incorporated into recipes to boost the fat content.

Is mozzarella keto-friendly? ›

Unlike most cheeses, Mozzarella is enjoyed fresh, rather than being aged! With a total carb count of 1 gram per ounce, it is yet another keto-friendly cheese to keep on-hand. Mozzarella also contains probiotics, which have shown to improve digestive health and emotional health!

Is peanut butter keto-friendly? ›

Peanut butter can definitely be part of a keto diet, but it's best to stick to plain options that are free of extra flavors and sweeteners. Almond butter is a good choice, too, and it's slightly lower in carbs. Additionally, you should be mindful of your portion size if you're trying to lose weight.

Is popcorn keto-friendly? ›

Net carbs are calculated by taking the total grams of carbohydrate in a food and subtracting the amount of fiber. In this case, popcorn contains 6 grams of carbs per 1 cup serving and 1.2 grams of fiber, bringing the net carbs per serving to 4.8 grams. Yes friends, popcorn is indeed a keto food.

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