Keto Pasta Sauce – Creamy & Low-Carb Option

Keto pasta sauce is a low-carb, high-fat alternative to traditional sauces that’s perfect for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle. While classic pasta sauces often contain hidden sugars and starchy thickeners, keto pasta sauce focuses on clean, wholesome ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, herbs, and healthy fats such as butter or heavy cream. This sauce is not just diet-friendly—it’s packed with rich flavors and a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with zoodles (zucchini noodles), shirataki noodles, or other keto-friendly pasta substitutes.

Whether you’re missing your favourite Italian comfort food or want to elevate a weeknight dinner, keto pasta sauce allows you to enjoy indulgent flavours without breaking ketosis. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with mushrooms, ground meat, or parmesan cheese to match your cravings.

Keto Pasta Sauce Recipe

Let’s discuss the recipe, ingredients, nutrition and more. This pasta sauce is more than just a low-carb alternative—it’s a flavorful, satisfying addition to your ketogenic meal plan. In the following sections, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect keto-friendly sauce at home. From selecting high-quality, low-carb ingredients like crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs to mastering the simple cooking method that enhances both texture and flavor, you’ll find it all here. We’ll also cover key nutritional facts to help you track your macros and stay in ketosis.

Keto Pasta Sauce

Keto pasta sauce is a low-carb, high-fat alternative to traditional sauces, made with wholesome ingredients like tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs. It's rich, flavorful, and perfect for pairing with keto-friendly noodles or dishes.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Resting Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 140

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves Minced cloves garlic
• ½ small small onion, finely chopped (optional for moderate keto)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter or heavy cream (for richness)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Equipment

• 1 Saucepan
• 1 Wooden spoon
• 1 Blender
• 1 Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. Heat oil: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add minced garlic (and onion if using), and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well.
4. Season the sauce: Mix in oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Simmer: Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Enrich the flavor: Stir in butter or heavy cream to add richness and balance acidity.
7. Optional: Blend the sauce for a smoother texture using an immersion blender.
8. Add cheese: Mix in parmesan cheese for extra flavor and creaminess.
9. Rest: Let the sauce rest for 5 minutes before serving to deepen the flavor.
10. Serve: Pair with keto noodles or use as a topping for casseroles and pizzas.

Notes

• Use canned tomatoes with no added sugar—always check the label.
• Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking for extra brightness.
• Adjust cream or butter depending on your fat macro needs.
• Make a big batch and store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.
• Blend the sauce if you prefer a smoother, restaurant-style consistency.

Keto Pasta Sauce Nutrition

Frequently Asked Questions

Ques: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Ans: Yes, but be sure to cook them down to remove excess moisture and adjust seasoning.

Ques: Is store-bought pasta sauce keto-friendly?
Ans: Only if it has no added sugar and low carbs—always read the nutrition label.

Ques: What can I serve with this sauce?
Ans: Zoodles, shirataki noodles, spaghetti squash, or keto-friendly gnocchi.

Ques: How do I store leftover sauce?
Ans: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for 1–2 months.

Ques: Can I add ground meat to this sauce?
Ans: Absolutely! Ground beef or turkey adds protein and makes it heartier.

Ereka Vetrini

Hi, I’m Ereka Vetrini, the editor and voice behind KetoRecipesMom.com – a space dedicated to helping busy moms and families embrace the keto lifestyle with ease, confidence, and delicious food!

As a mom, home cook, and health-conscious foodie, I understand the daily challenge of preparing meals that are both nutritious and kid-approved. That’s why I started this blog—to share simple, family-friendly keto recipes that save time in the kitchen and make healthy eating truly enjoyable.