Zero-Carb Carnivore Cheese Buns

Zero-Carb Carnivore Cheese Buns

Yield: 4 buns
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: ~25-30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy (Beginner-Friendly)
Dietary Tags: Carnivore, Keto, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Sugar-Free, Low-Carb

Ingredients

• 2 cups (8 oz / 225g) shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim works best)

• 2 large eggs

• (Optional) Pinch of salt, if your mozzarella is unsalted

• (Optional) 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor

Equipment

• Medium-sized microwave-safe bowl (or a double boiler)

• Mixing spoon or spatula

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat

• Whisk or fork

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a crucial step, as a hot oven is needed for the buns to puff up and brown properly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Do not grease the sheet, as the cheese provides enough fat.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese
Place the shredded mozzarella cheese in your microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, pausing to stir every 30 seconds, until the cheese is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the cheese using a double boiler over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted.

Pro Tip: Act quickly once the cheese is melted, as it becomes easier to work with while warm.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Allow the melted cheese to cool for a minute—if it’s too hot, it will cook the eggs prematurely. Crack the two eggs into the bowl with the cheese. If you’re using any optional seasonings, add them now.

Using a spatula or a spoon, vigorously mix the eggs and cheese together. At first, it will seem like they don’t want to combine, and the mixture may be stringy. Keep mixing! After a minute or two of steady stirring, it will transform into a smooth, homogeneous, and slightly sticky dough.

Step 4: Form the Buns
Divide the dough into four equal portions. With slightly wet hands (to prevent sticking), roll each portion into a ball and place it on your prepared baking sheet. Gently press down on each ball to flatten it slightly into a bun shape, about 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick.

Pro Tip: Ensure the buns are evenly sized and shaped for consistent cooking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and firm to the touch. The tops should be beautifully puffed and spotted with darker golden-brown patches.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 10-15 minutes. This is a non-negotiable step! The buns need this time to set and firm up. They will deflate slightly as they cool, which is normal. Their texture becomes perfectly chewy once cooled.

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Serving Suggestions & Storage

How to Serve:
These buns are incredibly versatile! Use them as:

• Burger Buns: The classic choice. They hold up perfectly to a juicy beef patty.

• Sandwich Bread: Slice them in half for a chicken salad or pulled pork sandwich.

• Breakfast Slice: Toast them and top with a fried egg and a slice of crispy bacon.

• Dinner Roll: Serve alongside a steak or a bowl of broth.

Storage Instructions:

• Counter: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

• Freezer: These buns freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in a toaster or warm oven.

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Nutritional Information

(Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Serving Size: 1 bun
Servings Per Recipe: 4

Why It’s “Zero-Carb”: While mozzarella cheese does contain trace amounts of carbohydrates (lactose), the amount per bun is negligible for most people following a strict carnivore or ketogenic diet. With only 1-2 grams of net carbs per bun, they are functionally zero-carb and will not disrupt a state of ketosis.

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Chef’s Notes & Variations

• Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is the gold standard for its mild flavor and excellent melt, you can experiment with other shredded cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a Mexican blend. Just ensure they are low-moisture.

• Crispy Variation: For a crispier, “cracker-like” texture, flatten the dough balls into thin discs before baking.

• Troubleshooting: If your dough is too greasy, your cheese may have been too high in fat or overheated. Blot the cooked buns with a paper towel after baking if needed. If your buns are flat, ensure your oven was fully preheated and you allowed the melted cheese to cool slightly before adding the eggs.

Enjoy your delicious, grain-free creation that perfectly aligns with your carnivore lifestyle