keto mac and cheese

Keto Mac and Cheese Recipe: Easy, Cheesy, and Delicious!

How to Make Keto Mac and Cheese in 20 Minutes!

What Is the Recipe for Keto Mac and Cheese?

🧀 KETO MAC AND CHEESE RECIPE: Boil keto pasta until tender, then drain. Mix with heavy cream, and shredded cheese. Season with salt, pepper and bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden.

Keto mac and cheese is a low-carb twist on the classic comfort food, made to fit into a ketogenic diet. Instead of high-carb pasta, we use alternatives like cauliflower or shirataki noodles.

This recipe still features a rich, creamy cheese sauce that is satisfying. There are many ways to enjoy keto mac and cheese, baked, with bacon, or even with added veggies for extra flavor and texture.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making keto mac and cheese. We’ll start with a brief overview of traditional mac and cheese, then discuss how to make it keto-friendly.

We’ll list the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, provide a step-by-step guide, and offer tips for perfecting your dish.

We’ll also include nutritional information, serving ideas, and storage tips. Finally, we’ll answer some common questions about keto cheeses and substitutions. Let’s get started!

A dish of baked macaroni and cheese garnished with fresh basil leaves, placed on a countertop next to a cheese grater, a wedge of cheese, a striped kitchen towel, and a sprig of basil
A dish of baked macaroni and cheese garnished with fresh basil leaves, placed on a countertop next to a cheese grater, a wedge of cheese, a striped kitchen towel, and a sprig of basil

Table of Contents:

What Is Mac and Cheese?

A close-up of creamy, melted macaroni and cheese being lifted by a fork, garnished with fresh green herbs
A close-up of creamy, melted macaroni and cheese being lifted by a fork, garnished with fresh green herbs

Mac and cheese, short for macaroni and cheese, is a beloved comfort food known for its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender pasta.

Traditionally, it features keto macaroni or elbow macaroni mixed with a rich sauce made from butter, almond milk, and a variety of cheeses, most commonly cheddar cheese.

This dish can be served as a main course or a side dish and is often baked to achieve a golden, crispy top. Its simplicity and versatility have made it a staple in many households, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

While the classic mac and cheese flavor is delicious, its high-carb content makes it unsuitable for a keto diet, leading to the creation of keto-friendly versions.

Is Mac and Cheese Keto-Friendly?

A casserole dish filled with baked macaroni and cheese with mushrooms, placed on a striped kitchen towel next to bread and a bowl of uncooked pasta
A casserole dish filled with baked macaroni and cheese with mushrooms, placed on a striped kitchen towel next to bread and a bowl of uncooked pasta

Traditional mac and cheese isn’t keto-friendly due to its high-carb pasta and flour-thickened cheese sauce. The carbs in the pasta alone can quickly exceed the daily limit for a ketogenic diet, which focuses on low-carb, high-fat foods.

However, you can enjoy a keto version by swapping out the pasta for low-carb alternatives like cauliflower florets or shirataki noodles and using a cheese sauce made with heavy cream and add cream cheese.

These changes reduce the carb content significantly while still delivering the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave.

So, while traditional mac and cheese isn’t suitable for keto, a few simple substitutions can make it a delicious and diet-friendly option.

Ingredients to Prepare

A top view of a white bowl filled with baked macaroni and cheese, featuring a golden, crispy top layer
A top view of a white bowl filled with baked macaroni and cheese, featuring a golden, crispy top layer

Let’s talk about ingredients before we get into the nitty-gritty of making keto mac and cheese.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Keto pasta: This low-carb pasta is the perfect substitute for traditional noodles, making the dish keto-friendly without sacrificing the classic mac and cheese experience.
  • Pepper: A dash of pepper adds gentle heat and depth to the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese sauce.
  • Salt: This staple seasoning enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients, ensuring every bite is deliciously well-rounded.
  • Heavy cream: The heavy cream or heavy whipping cream creates a luscious, velvety base for the cheese sauce, adding a rich and smooth texture that coats the pasta perfectly.
  • Shredded cheese: The main attraction in our mac and cheese, the shredded cheese melts into a creamy, gooey sauce that brings comfort and indulgence to the dish.

Ingredient Measurement

A cast-iron skillet filled with baked macaroni and cheese, garnished with a breadcrumb topping, placed on a dark cloth napkin with tomatoes, cheese, a grater, and pepper mills in the background
A cast-iron skillet filled with baked macaroni and cheese, garnished with a breadcrumb topping, placed on a dark cloth napkin with tomatoes, cheese, a grater, and pepper mills in the background

To make sure everything turns out just right, here’s a handy list of ingredient measurements:

  • 1 pound of keto pasta
  • ½ teaspoon of pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 2 ¾ cups of shredded cheese

Equipment You’ll Need

Having the right tools on hand can make the cooking process a breeze. 

For this recipe, you’ll need:

  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Small saucepan

How to Make Keto Mac and Cheese

A close-up of a fork lifting creamy, melted macaroni and cheese from a blue ramekin against a dark background
A close-up of a fork lifting creamy, melted macaroni and cheese from a blue ramekin against a dark background

Creating keto mac and cheese is simple and satisfying. By substituting traditional pasta with low-carb alternatives and using keto-friendly cheeses, you can enjoy a delicious, guilt-free dish.

Ready to whip up this tasty meal? Let’s dive into the steps to make keto mac and cheese.

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

  • Boil the keto pasta until it is firm to the bite, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Making the Cheese Sauce

  • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
  • Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir for 4-5 minutes until the mixture is thick and smooth.

Step 3: Combining and Serving

  • Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Keto Mac and Cheese Nutrition

A plate of creamy macaroni and cheese served on a white tablecloth, with a serving dish and a stack of plates in the background
A plate of creamy macaroni and cheese served on a white tablecloth, with a serving dish and a stack of plates in the background

Keto mac and cheese is rich in healthy fats and protein while being low in carbs. Made with cheese and cauliflower or low-carb noodles, it fits well into a ketogenic diet, helping maintain ketosis and support weight loss goals.

Here’s the nutritional information  per serving of these cheesy keto mac and cheese dishes:

  • Calories: 312 kcal
  • Total fats: 22 grams
  • Net carbs: 4 grams
  • Protein: 24 grams

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Keto Mac and Cheese

A bowl of uncooked pasta spirals placed on a white kitchen towel, with a wooden spoon filled with more pasta spirals beside it, all set on a wooden table
A bowl of uncooked pasta spirals placed on a white kitchen towel, with a wooden spoon filled with more pasta spirals beside it, all set on a wooden table

Here are some expert tips to perfect your keto mac and cheese:

  • Choose the Right Cheese: Use high-fat, low-carb cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. These melt well and add a rich flavor.
  • Pick Keto-Friendly Pasta Alternatives: Instead of traditional pasta, use low-carb options like shirataki noodles, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower.
  • Season Well: Add spices like fresh garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and mustard powder to enhance the flavor.
  • Thicken with Cream and Cheese: Use heavy cream and extra cheese to thicken the sauce instead of flour or cornstarch.
  • Bake for Texture: After mixing the cheese sauce with your pasta alternative, bake it with a layer of cheese on top for a crispy, golden crust.
  • Add Protein: Include cooked bacon, chicken, or ground beef to make it a more filling meal.
  • Use a Food Processor: For a smoother sauce, blend your cheese mixture in a food processor before heating.
  • Watch Your Portions: Keto dishes can be calorie-dense. Serve in smaller portions to keep your macros in check.
  • Experiment with Add-ins: Mix in low-carb veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture.
  • Adjust to Taste: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure it’s just right.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

A bowl of macaroni and cheese topped with shredded cheese, placed on a wooden cutting board alongside cherry tomatoes on the vine, cheese cubes, and a fork
A bowl of macaroni and cheese topped with shredded cheese, placed on a wooden cutting board alongside cherry tomatoes on the vine, cheese cubes, and a fork

Here are some serving and pairing ideas for keto mac and cheese:

Serving Ideas

  • Bacon Crumbles: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top and pork rinds for added flavor and texture.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
  • Vegetable Mix-ins: Stir in roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, roasted cauliflower, or spinach.
  • Spice It Up: Mix in a bit of hot sauce, jalapeños, or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Pairing Ideas

  • Green Salad: A crisp, fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced meal.
  • Keto Bread: Pair with a slice of keto-friendly garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
  • Avocado: Sliced avocado or guacamole can add a creamy, fresh element to the meal.
  • Cauliflower Rice: Serve with a side of cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist on a classic comfort food pairing.

How to Store Keto Mac and Cheese

A wooden bowl filled with creamy macaroni and cheese topped with slices of fried bacon, placed on a woven napkin next to two forks, with a glass bowl of uncooked pasta in the background
A wooden bowl filled with creamy macaroni and cheese topped with slices of fried bacon, placed on a woven napkin next to two forks, with a glass bowl of uncooked pasta in the background

Got leftovers? No problem. Properly storing your keto mac and cheese ensures it remains as delicious as when you first made it.

Transfer the cooled mac and cheese into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.

If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of heavy cream to bring back its creamy consistency.

For best results, stir occasionally while reheating to ensure even warming and prevent the cheese from separating.

Enjoy your keto mac and cheese any time with these simple storage tips!

More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home

Love this recipe. Here are more keto-friendly dishes to try:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Cheeses Are Allowed in Keto?

Most cheeses are keto-friendly because they are low in carbs and high in fat. Popular choices include cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, blue cheese, and goat cheese.

These cheeses add rich flavors and creamy textures to your dishes while keeping your carb count low.

Always check labels for added ingredients, but generally, natural, full-fat cheeses are your best bet on keto.

What Is a Keto Substitute for Cheese?

If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great keto substitute for cheese. It has a savory, cheesy flavor and is low in carbs, making it perfect for keto recipes.

Additionally, it provides a boost of vitamins, particularly B12, and can be used to add a cheesy taste to sauces, soups, and various dishes without dairy.

Is Mozzarella Keto?

Yes, mozzarella is keto-friendly. It’s low in carbs and high in fat, making it an excellent choice for keto dishes.

Whether used fresh in salads, shredded in casseroles, or melted in sauces, mozzarella’s creamy texture and mild flavor enhance many keto recipes. Always opt for full-fat versions to maximize the benefits of your ketogenic diet.

Final Thoughts

In summary, we explored how to enjoy the classic comfort of mac and cheese while sticking to a keto lifestyle

 By using keto-friendly pasta alternatives and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, you can savor all the flavors you love without the extra carbs.

We also covered practical tips for perfecting your dish, proper storage methods, and some cheese options suitable for a keto diet.

Keto mac and cheese proves that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for your dietary goals. It’s easy to make and satisfies those cheesy cravings perfectly.

Ready to try this delicious recipe? For more keto-friendly dishes and helpful tips, visit our website. We have a variety of recipes and resources to support your keto journey. Happy cooking!