This sugar-free ketchup is a quick, 15-minute recipe made with all-natural, keto-friendly ingredients. It’s perfectly tangy, slightly sweet, and rich in flavor—just like traditional ketchup, but without the added sugars or preservatives.
It’s a versatile condiment you can use as a dipping sauce for fries, nuggets, or veggies, or as a savory base for recipes like keto pizza, BBQ sauces, or marinades.
Once you try this homemade version, you may never want to go back to store-bought ketchup again.
Growing up, my favorite way to enjoy it was with a generous side of crispy French fries—and that love for ketchup never went away.
Once I started my keto journey, traditional ketchup (loaded with sugar) was no longer an option. That’s when this sugar-free ketchup became a staple in my kitchen.
This low-sugar ketchup is quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for any skill level in the kitchen.
Unlike store-bought versions full of hidden sugars and preservatives, this keto-friendly ketchup delivers the same rich, tangy flavor—without spiking your blood sugar or kicking you out of ketosis.
What Is Ketchup?
Ketchup is one of the most popular sauces worldwide, available in countless flavors, textures, and packaging styles.
Traditionally, it’s a smooth, tomato-based sauce with a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The classic recipe combines tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, onions, garlic, and spices, creating a versatile condiment loved by people of all ages.
Thanks to its versatility, ketchup has become a staple in kitchens and restaurants across the globe. Whether paired with crispy fries, juicy burgers, grilled meats, or even low-carb dishes, ketchup adds a burst of flavor that enhances just about any meal.
Is Ketchup Keto-Friendly?
Traditional store-bought ketchup is not keto-friendly because it often contains added sugar, corn syrup, and other high-carb ingredients. A single serving can have more sugar than you realize, which can quickly add up and impact ketosis.
The good news? You can easily make a homemade keto ketchup that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. By using natural, sugar-free sweeteners (like erythritol or monk fruit) and simple spices, you can enjoy the same tangy, rich flavor without the hidden carbs.
Homemade keto ketchup is not only healthier but also customizable—you control the sweetness, tanginess, and spice level to suit your taste. It’s the perfect guilt-free condiment for burgers, low-carb fries, meatloaf, or even keto pizza.
Why You’re Going to Love This Homemade Keto Ketchup Recipe
- Healthier Option: Made with all-natural ingredients, this keto ketchup is free from added sugars, preservatives, and artificial additives commonly found in store-bought versions.
- Convenient: Prepare a batch ahead of time and have a delicious, ready-to-use condiment on hand whenever you need it.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want homemade flavor without the fuss.
- Low Carb: With only about 4g net carbs per serving, it’s an ideal choice for those sticking to a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle.
- Authentic Flavor: Despite being sugar-free, this ketchup delivers the same tangy, sweet, and savory taste you love—no compromise on flavor.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or spice level to suit your personal preference or specific recipes.
- Versatile: Perfect as a dip, spread, or sauce for burgers, fries, meatloaf, and more, making it a kitchen staple.
- Supports Ketosis: Using keto-friendly sweeteners ensures it won’t spike blood sugar or kick you out of ketosis.
Ingredients For This Sugar-Free Ketchup
You’ll only need a handful of simple, everyday ingredients to whip up this delicious sugar-free ketchup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tomato Paste – The star of the recipe. Use a high-quality tomato paste with no added sugars or carbs to keep it keto-friendly and flavorful.
- Vinegar – Adds that classic tangy kick essential to any good ketchup. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar both work well.
- Brown Sugar Substitute – Balances the acidity with just the right touch of sweetness. Use a keto-approved sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder – These add depth and enhance the savory flavor of the ketchup. Optional but highly recommended.
- Water – Adjusts the consistency to get that perfect smooth and pourable texture.
- Salt – To taste, bringing all the flavors together and rounding out the profile.
How To Make
Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s super easy to make without needing cooking skills. Here is everything you have to do:
Start by preparing all the ingredients.
Next, add the ingredients to a saucepan over medium heat and mix them well until fully combined. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 10 minutes, and then remove it from the heat.
Taste the ketchup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Once you are satisfied with the taste and consistency, transfer the ketchup to a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator until needed.
Enjoy your delicious homemade keto ketchup as a condiment or dipping sauce.
Tips for Making the Best Keto Ketchup
- Choose high-quality tomato paste – Make sure it’s free from added sugars or starches to keep the flavor pure and the carbs low.
- Enhance with fresh ingredients – For a richer, more vibrant flavor, sauté fresh minced garlic or onion before adding them to the ketchup.
- Experiment with spices and herbs – Add dried herbs like oregano, basil, or dill for a more complex flavor. A pinch of smoked paprika can also give it a deep, smoky undertone.
- Adjust sweetness to taste – Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the amount of brown sugar substitute to make it sweeter or tangier.
- Make it spicy if you like heat – Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to turn it into a spicy keto ketchup.
- Control the consistency – If your ketchup is too thick, add water a little at a time until you reach your desired texture. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer to thicken.
- Let it rest before serving – Allow your ketchup to cool and rest for at least an hour in the fridge. This gives the flavors time to meld and develop for a better-tasting result.
- Store properly – Keep your keto ketchup in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions.
How to Store
Once you’re satisfied with the flavor and texture, transfer the keto ketchup to a clean, airtight glass jar or bottle. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to keep it fresh.
For long-term storage, portion the ketchup into small airtight containers or freezer-safe bags and store it in the freezer. Properly stored, frozen keto ketchup can last up to 3–4 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before serving.
Pro Tip: Always use a clean spoon when scooping ketchup to avoid introducing bacteria, which helps extend freshness.
How To Serve Keto Ketchup
This sugar-free ketchup it’s extremely versatile because you can use it in many different ways. Here are some ideas
- You can use it to create different sauces for pasta.
- You can make some chicken meatballs or nuggets and use this sugar-free ketchup as a dip.
- It’s great with french fries or oven-roasted vegetables.
- As a topping for omelets or scrambled eggs.
- Mixed with mayo or other low-carb sauces to make a dip or dressing.
- As a marinade for meat or veggies before grilling or roasting.
FAQ
How To Thicken This Sugar-Free Ketchup?
This sugar-free ketchup will thicken while it cools. To thicken this homemade ketchup, you may also add a teaspoon of cornstarch while simmering.
Can I Freeze This Sugar-Free Ketchup?
Sure, this ketchup can be stored in the freezer in an airtight container for up to one month. Then thaw it in the fridge overnight.
You can also store it in an ice cube tray and use it to create a sauce for pasta or different recipes.
What Ketchup Is Keto Friendly?
Brands like Heinz Tomato Sugar-Free Ketchup and G Hughes are great low carb ketchup options you can get from the store.
Sugar-Free Ketchup
Description
Ingredients
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar substitute
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- chili powder optional
Instructions
- Place a small saucepan over medium heat. Add all the ingredients to the pan and bring to a simmer.
- Stir consistently for 5 minutes or until the sauce starts to thicken. Taste and adjust the seasonings.
- Remove from the heat, allow to cool, and transfer to a jar. Store in the fridge for up to 10 days.
How do we calculate the nutrition info?
These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.