Making your own low carb mayonnaise is one of those small wins that can totally shift your keto journey. Store-bought options can be convenient, but they often sneak in hidden sugars, low-quality oils, or unnecessary preservatives. This article walks you through a simple, delicious recipe that uses clean ingredients and delivers the creamy, tangy flavor mayo should have—without the carbs. We’ll also cover what makes a mayo truly keto-approved, which brands are safest, and how to store and enjoy your homemade version. If you’re serious about keeping it clean and carb-free, this one’s for you.
Table of Contents
My Story Behind the Best Low Carb Mayonnaise
The Flavor of Home in a Jar of Mayo
I still remember sitting at the kitchen table in Naples, Italy, watching my mother whisk together eggs and oil into this velvety sauce that magically thickened before my eyes. She didn’t follow any measurements, just her instincts. That’s how I first tasted what I now know was homemade mayonnaise—tangy, smooth, and real. No plastic squeeze bottle, no preservatives. Just love, emulsified.
Fast forward to my New York kitchen, and that memory still guides how I cook. When I started eating low-carb and helping others do the same, mayo was one of those staples I refused to give up. But I couldn’t find a store-bought version that felt right. That’s when I started making this low carb mayonnaise recipe—a nod to my roots, but tailored for keto living.
Why Homemade Mayo Beats Store-Bought on Keto
Let’s be honest: not all mayonnaise is created equal. Many store-bought brands—even those labeled as keto—contain seed oils like canola or soy, and worse, added sugars. What you spread on your burger bunless or stir into your shopska salad matters. That’s why homemade is my go-to. It’s cleaner, fresher, and so much more satisfying.
This low carb mayonnaise recipe uses avocado oil, egg yolks, and a touch of Dijon for depth. It comes together with a whisk, a bowl, and a few minutes of patience. Once you taste the difference, you’ll never go back.
If you’re already a fan of easy keto mayonnaise, you’ll find this version even creamier with just the right tang. Whether you’re spreading it on keto sandwiches or using it in dips, this mayo delivers every time.
What Makes Low Carb Mayonnaise Truly Keto
Ingredients to Use (and Avoid) for True Keto Mayo
Not all mayonnaise is created with your macros in mind. One tablespoon of standard mayo might seem keto-friendly at first glance, but a closer look at the label often reveals hidden sugars or cheap oils that don’t belong in a low-carb lifestyle. For a truly keto-friendly low carb mayonnaise, your ingredient list needs to be clean and intentional.
The best base oils are avocado oil, olive oil, or even coconut oil—rich in monounsaturated fats and free of inflammatory seed oils like soybean or canola. Avocado oil, in particular, gives your mayo a silky texture without overpowering flavor, which is why it’s the star in our recipe.
Your eggs should be room temperature and, if possible, organic or pasture-raised. It’s a small upgrade that delivers a better texture and a richer color. And for acidity? Skip anything with added sugar and reach for lemon juice or vinegar—just like I do when making this mayo to serve with fresh greens or basil chimichurri.
Avoid thickeners, preservatives like disodium EDTA, and sugars lurking under aliases like dextrose or “natural flavors.” These aren’t keto—they’re just clutter.
Is Mayo Keto? And What Brands Are Really Safe?
The short answer: Yes, mayo can be keto. But it depends on the brand and ingredients. Keto isn’t just about carbs—it’s also about quality fats. Many popular mayo brands contain zero carbs per serving, but they use processed vegetable oils that aren’t ideal for ketosis or overall health.
Here are some trusted keto mayo brands with clean labels:
- Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil Mayo – 0g carbs, made with avocado oil and organic eggs.
- Sir Kensington’s Avocado Oil Mayonnaise – 0g carbs, made with free-range eggs and clean oils.
- Chosen Foods Classic Mayo – avocado oil-based, no sugar, zero carbs.
And yes, there is such a thing as carb-free mayo. Most high-quality brands list zero net carbs per serving. The trick is keeping serving sizes realistic—those hidden extras can sneak in fast.
If you’re in doubt, your best bet is always homemade. When you’re in control of the ingredients, like in the recipe we’ll share next, you don’t have to second guess a thing.
Easy Homemade Low Carb Mayonnaise Recipe
Ingredients, Tips & Tools for Perfect Mayo Every Time
Making your own low carb mayonnaise might seem intimidating, but it’s really just about timing and good ingredients. With the right method, you’ll end up with a thick, creamy, restaurant-quality mayo in less than 10 minutes.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 egg yolks – room temperature
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – adds depth and helps emulsify
- 1 cup avocado oil – for a neutral, heart-healthy fat
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice – brightness and acidity
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Tip: Let your egg yolks sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before whisking. Cold yolks don’t emulsify as easily.
You don’t need fancy tools—just a large mixing bowl and a strong whisk. If you’re short on time or want to ensure a fail-proof texture, an immersion blender is your best friend. That said, I still whisk by hand most days. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching it come together slowly, especially knowing every spoonful is good for your body.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making It by Hand
- Whisk the base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and Dijon mustard until smooth and combined. This is the foundation of your emulsion.
- Slowly add oil: Begin adding the avocado oil very slowly, just a teaspoon at a time, whisking vigorously as you go. Don’t rush—this step is where the magic happens. Once the mixture starts to thicken, you can add oil a bit faster, in a thin stream.
- Finish it off: Once the mayo is thick and glossy, whisk in the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
That’s it! You’ve just made homemade low carb mayonnaise without any preservatives, mystery ingredients, or carb concerns.
Transfer it into a clean, sealable jar or container and refrigerate for at least one hour. It will thicken as it chills.
You’ll find the texture perfect for spreading on low-carb bread, adding creaminess to keto chicken salad, or dolloping onto a juicy grilled burger. And if you love making your own keto staples, be sure to check out my easy keto mayonnaise version too—it’s equally foolproof.
Print
Low Carb Mayonnaise
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, clean, and keto-approved low carb mayonnaise made with avocado oil and just four ingredients. Easy, quick, and endlessly versatile.
Ingredients
2 egg yolks room temperature
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup avocado oil
2 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yolks and Dijon mustard until combined and smooth.
2. Slowly add the oil in, one teaspoon at a time, while continuing to whisk the mixture. Once all the oil has been added in and the mixture is uniform, whisk in the lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Transfer the mixture into a sealable container or sterilized jar. Refrigerate for an hour to thicken.
Notes
Use only room temperature egg yolks to help with emulsification.
Add oil slowly to avoid separation.
Refrigerate immediately and consume within 7–10 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 81
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 7mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Low Carb Mayonnaise, keto mayo, homemade mayo, avocado oil mayonnaise
How to Serve & Store Low Carb Mayo Like a Pro
Creative Ways to Use It on a Keto Diet
Once you’ve got a jar of homemade low carb mayonnaise in the fridge, the possibilities open up—fast. Whether you’re whipping up a simple salad dressing or jazzing up a lettuce wrap, this mayo becomes your go-to flavor booster.
Here are a few keto-friendly ways I use it regularly:
- As a dip: Pair it with crunchy veggie sticks like celery, cucumbers, or radishes for a satisfying snack.
- In dressings: Mix with apple cider vinegar, fresh garlic, and herbs for a creamy dressing with real zing.
- Keto egg salad or tuna salad: Use it as the creamy base for your high-protein salads—perfect for meal prep.
- Lettuce wraps: Spread it on the inside of butter lettuce or romaine leaves before adding your fillings. It adds that satisfying moisture you’d miss without the bread.
- Roasted veggies: Swirl in a spoonful just before serving to roasted cauliflower or zucchini—it gives the dish a silky richness.
- Burgers and sliders: This mayo slathered on a bunless burger is pure keto comfort food. I even add a thin layer to seared chicken thighs.
For even more ways to use it, I recommend pairing it with this shopska salad—the creamy dressing adds a bold contrast to the crisp veggies and briny feta.
Storage Tips + Shelf Life of Homemade Keto Mayo
Unlike store-bought mayo packed with stabilizers and shelf extenders, homemade low carb mayonnaise needs a little more attention when it comes to storage. But don’t worry—it still lasts long enough to enjoy every bite.
Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate immediately in a clean, airtight jar. A wide-mouth glass mason jar works best.
- Keep it below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
- Consume within 7–10 days. This ensures flavor and texture stay at their peak.
- Don’t double dip. Always use a clean spoon to prevent introducing bacteria.
If you’re planning ahead, this mayo also freezes surprisingly well in small silicone containers. Just thaw in the fridge overnight, then re-whisk briefly to restore the texture.
Want to add even more flavor? Stir in roasted garlic, fresh basil, or chipotle powder before storing for a custom spread that’s keto and loaded with personality.
FAQs About Low Carb Mayonnaise
Which mayo has the least carbs?
The lowest carb options are typically low carb mayonnaise brands that use avocado oil or olive oil and skip the added sugars. Products like Primal Kitchen and Chosen Foods contain zero net carbs per tablespoon. Homemade low carb mayonnaise—like the recipe shared above—contains around 1g of carbs per serving depending on the mustard and lemon juice used.
What mayonnaise can you eat on keto?
You can eat any mayonnaise that’s high in healthy fats and free from added sugars or processed seed oils. Look for labels that list ingredients like avocado oil, olive oil, egg yolks, and natural acids such as vinegar or lemon juice. Steer clear of anything with “low-fat” or “light” on the label—those versions often use starches or sugar substitutes to make up for lost texture.
Is there a carb-free mayonnaise?
Yes, many brands now offer carb-free and low carb mayonnaise varieties. These usually contain 0g of carbohydrates per serving and are made with simple ingredients like eggs, vinegar, and avocado oil. For total control, making your own low carb mayonnaise at home ensures there are absolutely no unwanted carbs.
What brands of mayonnaise are keto?
Some of the most popular keto-certified mayo brands include:
Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil Mayo – made with organic eggs, no sugar
Sir Kensington’s Avocado Oil Mayonnaise – Paleo and Keto certified
Chosen Foods Classic Mayo – avocado oil base, clean ingredients
Thrive Market Coconut Oil Mayo – great for those avoiding avocados or eggs
Always double-check the nutrition label—even keto-branded products can contain trace ingredients that aren’t ideal for strict keto followers.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Mayonnaise
This low carb mayonnaise has earned its permanent spot in my fridge—not just because it’s keto-approved, but because it’s genuinely rich, flavorful, and satisfying. When you make it yourself, you skip the hidden sugars and seed oils, and instead get a creamy condiment that enhances everything from grilled veggies to burgers. Whether you’re new to keto or just looking for a healthier staple, this low carb mayonnaise is a simple win with big flavor.
If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d love to share more from my kitchen with you. Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more low carb mayonnaise ideas, cozy meals, and real stories behind each dish. Let’s keep cooking together, one small batch at a time.
