Is Garlic Butter High in Carbs? A Comprehensive Nutritional Guide

November 11, 2025 •

4 min read

Butter itself is almost entirely fat, containing virtually no carbohydrates. This fact makes the question, "Is garlic butter high in carbs?" a critical one for those on low-carb or ketogenic diets, as the overall carb count is determined by the ratio and type of ingredients used.

Quick Summary

Garlic butter is exceptionally low in carbohydrates and is a staple for keto diets. The carb content is minimal, coming from the garlic, while the bulk is healthy fat. It is a flavor-rich option, but requires moderation due to its high caloric density.

Key Points

Low Carb Count: Garlic butter is not high in carbs, with both butter and garlic contributing very few to the final product.
Keto-Friendly: Due to its high fat and negligible carb content, garlic butter is a popular and suitable option for a ketogenic diet.
High in Fat: The primary nutrient in garlic butter is fat, making it calorie-dense and requiring moderation.
Ingredients Matter: Homemade versions allow control over ingredients, with potential benefits from grass-fed butter or added olive oil.
Health Benefits: The garlic component provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, but these are balanced by the high saturated fat from the butter.
Context is Key: While low-carb on its own, its use on high-carb foods like bread and pasta can quickly increase overall carb intake.

Breaking Down the Ingredients

To understand the carbohydrate content of garlic butter, one must first look at its two primary ingredients: butter and garlic. Both components contribute differently to the final nutritional profile, with one being essentially carb-free and the other adding a small but important amount.

Butter: A Carb-Free Foundation

Butter, in its pure form, is made from the fat and protein of milk. The process of separating the milk fat results in a product that is predominantly fat and contains trace amounts of protein and carbohydrates. According to the U.S. Dairy and Verywell Fit, one tablespoon of butter contains 0 grams of carbohydrates. For those following a keto or low-carb diet, butter is a fat-rich staple that provides flavor and satiety without affecting carbohydrate intake. However, it is high in saturated fat and calories, so portion control is important.

Garlic: Minimal Carbs, Maximum Flavor

A single clove of garlic is very low in calories and carbohydrates. The USDA data shows that one raw clove of garlic (about 3 grams) contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrate. Given that most recipes use only a few cloves for an entire batch of garlic butter, the carb contribution from the garlic is negligible when spread across multiple servings. Fresh garlic also provides health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, though the high-fat content of the butter means consumption should still be monitored.

How Low Is the Carb Count?

When combined, the minimal carbs from the garlic are distributed throughout the butter, resulting in a very low carbohydrate count per serving. For instance, a 1-tablespoon serving of homemade garlic butter might contain less than half a gram of net carbs, depending on the amount of garlic used. Many commercially prepared garlic butters also advertise a near-zero carb count per serving. This makes garlic butter an excellent condiment and cooking fat for individuals on a low-carb diet.

Tips for Making Healthier Garlic Butter

For those looking to optimize their garlic butter, consider the following options:

Use Grass-Fed Butter: Grass-fed butter often contains more omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which offer additional health benefits over conventional butter.
Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, and thyme can enhance flavor and nutritional value without adding carbs.
Include Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Mixing in a small amount of extra virgin olive oil can add heart-healthy monounsaturated fats while also making the butter softer and easier to spread.
Opt for Unsalted: Using unsalted butter allows for complete control over the sodium content, which is beneficial for managing blood pressure.

How to Enjoy Garlic Butter on a Low-Carb Diet

Garlic butter is a versatile ingredient that can enhance many low-carb dishes. Here are a few ways to incorporate it into a healthy diet:

Melt it over grilled steak, chicken, or fish for a rich, savory flavor.
Toss it with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus.
Use it as a finishing sauce for shrimp scampi or other seafood dishes.
Spread it on low-carb bread alternatives made from almond flour or coconut flour.

Comparison: Homemade vs. Store-Bought Garlic Butter

When choosing between homemade and store-bought garlic butter, there are several factors to consider. Homemade versions offer more control over ingredients and freshness, while store-bought options provide convenience.


Feature	Homemade Garlic Butter	Store-Bought Garlic Butter
Carb Content	Very low; depends on garlic ratio.	Very low, often listed as 0g per serving.
Ingredients	Whole, fresh ingredients; full control.	May contain additives, flavorings, or preservatives.
Fat Source	Typically butter, can be supplemented with olive oil.	Can use butter, but some may contain margarine or blends.
Flavor	Customizable with fresh garlic and herbs.	Standardized flavor, less fresh taste.
Additives	None, unless you add them.	May contain added salt, flavor enhancers, or stabilizers.
Cost	Potentially lower cost per serving.	Often more expensive for the convenience.

Health Considerations Beyond Carbs

While the low-carb nature of garlic butter is appealing for some diets, it is not a 'free pass' for unlimited consumption. The high caloric density and saturated fat content mean moderation is key for a healthy lifestyle. High saturated fat intake can increase cholesterol levels and raise the risk of cardiovascular issues. It is important to remember that all foods, including those low in carbs, should be part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion: Is Garlic Butter High in Carbs? The Verdict

In summary, is garlic butter high in carbs? The answer is no. With both butter and garlic being low in carbohydrates, the resulting garlic butter is an excellent low-carb and keto-friendly option. While it is high in fat and calories, consuming it in moderation allows for maximum flavor without derailing your dietary goals. It can be a delicious and versatile addition to many savory dishes when used mindfully and paired with other low-carb ingredients like vegetables and lean proteins. As with any food, the key to its health impact lies in proper portion control and preparation.

For more information on the health benefits of garlic, an ingredient with traditional medicinal uses, consult the Wisdom Library's nutritional information.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard serving of garlic butter, such as one tablespoon, contains a negligible amount of carbohydrates, often less than 1 gram. The exact amount depends on the garlic-to-butter ratio.

Yes, garlic butter is highly suitable for a ketogenic diet. It is high in fat and very low in net carbs, making it a great way to add flavor while adhering to keto macro goals.

Not necessarily. Many store-bought garlic butters have a very low carb count, similar to homemade versions. However, homemade allows you full control over all ingredients, including avoiding potential additives.

The main health consideration is its high content of saturated fat and calories from the butter. While low in carbs, excessive consumption can contribute to weight gain and potentially increase cholesterol levels.

Pure butter is virtually carbohydrate-free. According to U.S. Dairy nutrition facts, one tablespoon of butter contains 0 grams of carbohydrates.

Yes, to make a healthier version, consider using grass-fed butter for better fatty acid content, mixing in a heart-healthy fat like olive oil, and adding fresh herbs for flavor.

Garlic butter pairs well with many low-carb foods. Great options include melting it over steak or fish, tossing it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, or using it as a sauce for seafood.