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Keto Sauces

White Sauce with Ham and Herbs

There’s something comforting about a creamy sauce, especially when it’s studded with bits of ham and fragrant herbs. I often whip this up when I need a fast, satisfying topping for my keto dishes. The heavy cream makes it luxuriously smooth, while the onion and bouillon add depth without extra carbs. It’s become my go-to for turning plain chicken or steamed broccoli into a meal worth remembering.

10 min Prep time 35 min Cook time 45 min Total time 4 Servings 310 Calories
White Sauce with Ham and Herbs

Ingredients

  • tablespoon olive oil
  • onion, minced
  • cup finely chopped ham
  • cup water
  • cube chicken bouillon
  • tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • /4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    I start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, I add the minced onion and chopped ham, stirring until the onion becomes translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. The ham releases a bit of its salty goodness, which infuses the oil. Then I pour in the water and add the chicken bouillon cube, breaking it up with a spoon so it dissolves evenly. After sprinkling in the fresh parsley, basil, and black pepper, I bring everything to a gentle simmer. I let it cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring now and then to prevent sticking. As it simmers, the liquid reduces slightly and the flavors meld beautifully. Finally, I reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. I let it warm through for just 2 minutes—no need to boil, or the cream might separate. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then spoon it over your favorite keto base.

Chef's Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, I sometimes sauté the ham until it gets a little crispy at the edges before adding the onion. It gives the sauce a subtle smoky note that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if it thickens too much.

Variation Tips

Try swapping the ham for crispy bacon or diced pancetta for a different porky punch. You can also add a handful of spinach at the end and let it wilt into the sauce for extra greens, or use dried herbs if fresh aren’t on hand—just reduce the amount by a third.

Frequently Asked Questions