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    Home » Dips, Dressings, and Sauces » Keto Marinara Sauce Recipe - Slow Cooker, Instant Pot, Stovetop

    Keto Marinara Sauce Recipe - Slow Cooker, Instant Pot, Stovetop

    Published: Oct 3, 2019 by Wendy Polisi Modified: Mar 8, 2022 · 1243 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.

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    Overhead photo of Keto Marinara in a cast iron skillet with the recipe title in a text overlay above it.

    This Keto Marinara Sauce recipe is one you will turn to again and again. It is perfectly balanced with sweetness and acidity.  Sautéing the onions first will bring out the sweetness, making it unnecessary to add sugar to the sauce.  Sure, you can buy marinara, but homemade tastes so much better. (Plus - it is always great to control what is going into what you are eating!) The hands-on time is minimal here, and you will be richly rewarded for your efforts. I especially like this with my Keto Chicken Parmesan. Try it once and, like me, you'll be addicted!

    Overhead photo of Keto Marinara in a cast iron skillet garnished with parsley sitting on a white background.

    The Whole Family Will Love This Keto Marinara Sauce!

    Last Updated: 3 Oct 2019

    One of the hardest things about being on a low carb or keto diet is having to cook one meal for myself and another for my kids.

    I try to avoid this as much as possible and find a special joy when I create basic recipes - like this Keto Marinara - that the whole family will love.

    I know a lot of people resist the idea of making things that they can easily buy, and I get it.

    But I promise - this is so simple to throw together on the weekend, and it tastes A-MA-ZING!

    This recipe makes a chunky marinara sauce. If you want it smoother, process it in the blender until it reaches the desired consistency. (This is what I often do - that way the kids can use it for pizza and meatballs.)

    I've used this to make Keto Manicotti (coming soon), and I must say it was out of this world.

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    How to Make Keto Marinara Sauce

    Step 1: Heat olive oil and butter in a stock pot.

    Step 2: Add onion and cook for 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.

    Photo of oil, chopped onion, and garlic cooking in a skillet.

    Step 3: Stir in tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and crushed pepper flakes.

    Step 4: Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 40 minutes.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the ingredients for Keto Marinara Sauce?

    • Unsalted butter
    • Extra-virgin olive oil
    • Onion
    • Garlic
    • Canned whole peeled tomatoes 
    • Italian seasoning
    • Sea salt
    • Black pepper
    • Crushed red pepper flakes

    Is marinara and tomato sauce OK on a keto diet?

    Tomatoes and tomato sauce, in moderation, is ok on a Keto diet. However, prepared marinara, pizza sauce, and other red sauces often have added sugars in them. For this reason, it is important that you read labels if you are going to buy tomato sauce and marinara.

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    What is the best brand of canned tomatoes to use on keto?

    It is essential always to read labels when choosing tomatoes. Many brands have added sugars, which is something you should avoid. (Especially since tomatoes already have added sugars.) Many brands will work. My favorite is Muir Glen Organic.

    How many carbs are in homemade marinara sauce?

    The carbohydrate count will vary by recipe, but this sugar-free marinara has just 4 net carbs per serving.

    Can I use crushed tomatoes instead of whole tomatoes?

    I prefer whole tomatoes because the flavor is so much better, but you can absolutely use crushed tomatoes if you prefer.

    How long does this recipe keep in the refrigerator?

    This recipe will keep for three to four days in the refrigerator.

    Can this be frozen?

    This recipe can be frozen for up to three months.

    Photo of Low Carb Marinara in a large cash iron skillet with a wooden spoon in it garnished with parsley.

    Variations for This Recipe:

    • You can use 3 ½ pounds of fresh ripe tomatoes in place of the canned tomatoes.
    • If desired, stir in fresh basil and/or oregano in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
    • If you are low carb and not keto, a grated carrot added in when you add the onion adds a nice hint of sweetness.
    • Stir in 3 ounces of Parmesan cheese at the end.
    • If you find the sauce to be too acidic, you can add a pinch of baking soda.
    • For a super-creamy tomato sauce, add 2 tablespoons of butter to it at the end.

    Slow Cooker Keto Marinara Sauce

    1. Complete steps one and two on the saute' function of your slow cooker, or on the stovetop.
    2. Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, and cook on low for 8 hours.

    Instant Pot Keto Marinara Sauce

    1. Turn your Instant Pot to saute, and add the butter and olive oil to the pot.
    2. When the butter melts, add onion and cook for 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
    3. Stir in tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed pepper flakes.
    4. Close the lid, and make sure it is set to seal.
    5. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
    6. Release the pressure using the quick-release method.
    7. Carefully unlock and remove the lid.
    Photo of a keto quickstart guide with the description of the guide on the right.

    If You Like This Low Carb Marinara You May Also Like:

    • This Keto Chicken Parmesan is simple enough for a weeknight, but fancy enough for company!
    • This Keto Meatloaf is pure comfort food!
    • Most often I make this Keto Eggplant Lasagna recipe with a meat sauce, but for for a vegetarian option this marinara works fabulously.

    Keto Marinara Sauce Recipe

    This Keto Marinara Sauce is something I like to make on the weekends. Usually, I will make a double batch and freeze half to use later in the week. If I am planning on pizza, I freeze it in smaller portions so that I can defrost just what I need. Try it, and I think you will agree - it is so much better than store bought.

    Overhead photo of Keto Marinara Sauce in a cast iron skillet garnished with parsley and sitting on a white background.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 8 votes

    Keto Marinara Sauce Recipe

    There is nothing quite like the cozy smell of this Low Carb Marinara Sauce simmering on the stove. It is perfect to make on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
    Prep Time10 mins
    Cook Time44 mins
    Total Time54 mins
    Course: Main
    Cuisine: American, Italian
    Keyword: comfort food, spicy
    Servings: 16
    Calories: 76.01kcal
    Author: Wendy Polisi
    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualified sales.

    Equipment

    • Stock pot
    • Knife

    Ingredients

    • ¼ cup unsalted butter
    • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • ½ cup diced onion
    • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
    • 56 ounces canned whole peeled tomatoes 2- 28 oz cans crushed by hand (make sure you use a no-sugar added brand)
    • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
    • 2 teaspoons sea salt
    • 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

    Instructions

    • Heat butter and olive oil in a large stock pan to medium heat.
    • Add onion and cook for 4 minutes, until tender. Add garlic and cook for one minute longer.
    • Stir in tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and crushed pepper flakes.
    • Bring to a boil.
    • Reduce heat to low and cook for 40 minutes.

    Notes

    Variations:

    • You can use 3 ½ pounds of fresh ripe tomatoes in place of the canned tomatoes.
    • If desired, stir in fresh basil and/or oregano in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
    • If you are low carb and not keto, a grated carrot added in when you add the onion adds a nice hint of sweetness.
    • Stir in 3 ounces of Parmesan cheese at the end.

    Slow Cooker Keto Marinara Sauce

    1. Complete steps one and two on the saute' function of your slow cooker, or on the stovetop.
    2. Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, and cook on low for 8 hours.

    Instant Pot Keto Marinara Sauce

    1. Turn your Instant Pot to saute, and add the butter and olive oil to the pot.
    2. When the butter melts, add onion and cook for 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
    3. Stir in tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed pepper flakes.
    4. Close the lid, and make sure it is set to seal.
    5. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
    6. Release the pressure using the quick-release method.
    7. Carefully unlock and remove the lid.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 76.01kcal | Carbohydrates: 4.89g | Protein: 0.93g | Fat: 6.41g | Saturated Fat: 2.32g | Cholesterol: 7.63mg | Sodium: 434.42mg | Potassium: 197.78mg | Fiber: 1.26g | Sugar: 2.6g | Vitamin A: 228.57IU | Vitamin C: 9.71mg | Calcium: 38.43mg | Iron: 1.11mg

    Low Carb Recipes that Use Marinara Sauce to Try:

    • Low Carb Italian Meatballs from Low Carb Maven
    • Cream Cheese Spaghetti Zoodles from Buns In My Oven
    • Low Carb Cauliflower Casserole from Wholesome Yum
    « Low Carb Buffalo Chicken Dip
    Peanut Butter Chaffles »
    • 464

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Stacie

      August 15, 2019 at 3:54 pm

      5 stars
      That is fantastic! Going keto usually means you can't have any kind of sauces anymore. I can't wait to make this.

      Reply
    2. Emman Damian

      August 15, 2019 at 6:31 pm

      5 stars
      I love your Keto Marinara Sauce recipe! It's so cool and easy to do. I will do this on weekends.

      Reply
      • Natalia camara

        December 04, 2020 at 8:50 pm

        My 11 year old son, was commenting on the good smell as I was sautéing, it’s now in the slow cooker. I am sure it’s going to taste delicious. Thank you!

        Reply
    3. Steph Social

      August 16, 2019 at 1:28 am

      5 stars
      Love this! I love marinara sauce and this is a great recipe! I add basil and a little parmigiana and so so good!

      Reply
    4. Shannon Gurnee

      August 16, 2019 at 4:34 pm

      I've never made Marinara from scratch. This looks like a yummy recipe!

      Reply
    5. Brandy

      August 16, 2019 at 8:36 pm

      I had no idea that there was a keto option for marinara sauce, I'm going to give this a try. The recipe sounds and looks absolutely delicious and I use the marinara sauce on so many things, especially for dipping.

      Reply
    6. Ronnie

      August 16, 2019 at 9:05 pm

      5 stars
      This looks unreal! Love the fact that it's keto - I'm trying to change my diet as it's easier on my stomach. Thanks. 🙂

      Reply
    7. Sara | mshealthesteem.com

      August 16, 2019 at 11:23 pm

      That looks like a delicious marinara sauce! Love the recipe. Thank you for sharing ♡

      Reply
    8. Brianna S

      August 17, 2019 at 3:06 pm

      This recipe looks delicious!! I'm going to def give it a try!

      Reply
    9. Annemarie LeBlanc

      August 17, 2019 at 10:25 pm

      5 stars
      Awesome! I will save the recipe and make this for when I have guests with special diets. I am positive they would be asking for the recipe too!

      Reply
    10. Jocelyn @ Hip Mama's Place

      August 18, 2019 at 1:52 pm

      5 stars
      I'm going back to a low carb diet so this recipe is perfect! I love marinara sauce!

      Reply
    11. L. J. Warren

      October 05, 2019 at 4:14 pm

      Recipe for marinara sauce looks good. However, it appears the Instant Pot directions left off the amount of time to cook. I've enjoyed your recipes and blog through the years. Thanks

      Reply
      • Wendy Polisi

        October 07, 2019 at 12:45 pm

        Thanks so much for letting me know! Fortunately it was an easy fix - I had it were I wrote the recipe the end just got cut off when I copied and pasted it to the blog. Sorry about that!

        Reply
    12. Lisa Cowan

      December 14, 2019 at 5:35 pm

      1/4 what on the olive oil? Cup?

      Reply
      • Wendy Polisi

        December 14, 2019 at 5:43 pm

        Yes, it is 1/4 cup!

        Reply
    13. Staci

      January 31, 2020 at 4:14 pm

      Hi, This looks amazing!
      Forgive me if you listed it somewhere, but I cant find how much a serving is. ½ cup? ¼ cup?
      Thank you in advance.
      Staci

      Reply
      • Wendy Polisi

        January 31, 2020 at 5:21 pm

        I have never actually measured it - when I am freezing in individual portions I just divide it into approx. 16 portions. Next time I make this I will measure.

        Reply
        • Wendy Laundree

          March 08, 2022 at 6:49 pm

          I just found your marinara sauce recipe. I can’t wait to try it. Do you now know if you get 16 1/2 cups or 16 1/4 cups.

          Reply
          • Wendy Polisi

            March 08, 2022 at 7:04 pm

            It varies a little each time depending on how much it cooks down. (This can vary slightly due to the pot, eye of my stove I use, etc.). So I just weigh it and divide it.

            Reply
    14. Bev Johnstone

      March 17, 2020 at 9:59 pm

      5 stars
      This sauce is amazing! We'll use this even if we're no longer on Keto. Delicious and so easy. I made it as written except I left out the red pepper, and added a little Parmesan at the end. Yum!

      Reply
      • Wendy Polisi

        March 17, 2020 at 10:07 pm

        So glad that you enjoyed it! Thanks for taking the time with all that is going on right now to let me know - made my night.

        Reply
    15. Jen

      November 05, 2020 at 12:12 pm

      I just wanted to thank you for you excellent recipes. Today I pulled your Marinara sauce and also stumbled upon the customizable printing options.. I love that I was able to add the thumbnail picture of the recipe and adjust the servings... that is more interactive than I've ever noticed for any printing option from the internet before. Thank you for the time and effort I know it takes to do this stuff well. Cheers to you!

      Reply
      • Wendy Polisi

        November 05, 2020 at 12:24 pm

        Thanks so much for your kind words! It is my pleasure - I have so much fun with this website.

        Reply
    16. Robyn

      November 19, 2020 at 3:07 pm

      Just a quick question: you use a total of 56 oz. of tomatoes, whole or crushed, right? Not 56 oz. of whole PLUS 2-28 oz. cans crushed.
      Just double checking before I make this. Can’t wait!

      Reply
      • Wendy Polisi

        November 19, 2020 at 3:08 pm

        Exactly!

        Reply
    17. Megan Rose

      December 05, 2022 at 10:59 pm

      5 stars
      We’re not Keto, but we were looking for a recipe with no added sugar. We cooked it in the slow cooker, doubled the red pepper flakes, and used an immersion blender at the end. Delicious.

      Reply
    18. Marion Merritt

      January 07, 2023 at 10:46 pm

      I am also curious about how much a serving is. I have been on keto for a week and many recipes leave out what a serving equals. Could you let me know when you update the recipe. Many thanks for the recipe. Going to make it now!

      Reply

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    Welcome

    I'm Wendy and I'm here to show you just how delicious a low carb, gluten free and keto diet can be! You are just as likely to find me obsessing over all things cheesy as you are getting excited by a full produce drawer. I'm a mom to three, obsessive planner and roller coasters are my happy place. Let's dig deeper →

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