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If you’re searching for the ultimate keto meatball recipe, you’ve found it! These juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce are everything you crave in comfort food—without the carbs. It’s a low-carb twist on a classic Italian favorite that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking up a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is hearty, healthy, and guaranteed to become a regular in your keto rotation.
Why Make This Keto Meatball Recipe?
Keto meatballs are more than just delicious—they’re a practical solution for anyone trying to eat healthy while still enjoying satisfying meals. Here’s why you’ll love this dish:
1. Low in Carbs, High in Flavor
Unlike traditional meatballs, these skip the breadcrumbs and opt for keto-friendly binding agents like almond flour or parmesan. The result? Rich, juicy meatballs without the carb crash.
2. Hearty and Satisfying
High in protein and healthy fats, this dish keeps you full and energized for hours. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
3. Easy to Make
With a few basic pantry staples, you can have these ready in under an hour. No complicated techniques—just good, wholesome food.
4. Customizable
Make them spicy, cheesy, or stuffed—this recipe adapts easily to your preferences.
5. Family-Friendly
Kids love them. Spouses devour them. Even your picky eaters will ask for seconds.
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Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting keto meatball recipe:
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
½ lb (225g) ground pork (optional for juiciness)
1 large egg
½ cup grated parmesan cheese (or almond flour for dairy-free option)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Tomato Sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)
1 tbsp tomato paste
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Read More: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make perfect keto meatballs in a rich, savory tomato sauce.
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), egg, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form the Meatballs
Using a scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs. You should get about 16–18 meatballs.
3. Sear the Meatballs
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Don’t worry about cooking them through—they’ll finish in the sauce.
4. Make the Tomato Sauce
Remove meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes, onion powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.
5. Simmer the Meatballs
Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and let simmer for 20–25 minutes over low heat until fully cooked and the sauce is thickened.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve over spiralized zucchini, cauliflower mash, or enjoy as-is!
Craving more low-carb Italian favorites? Download your FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes for satisfying keto meals that don’t skimp on flavor.
Tips and Substitutions
Ground Meat Options: Use all beef, all pork, or mix turkey for a lighter version.
Dairy-Free? Swap parmesan with almond flour or nutritional yeast.
No Crushed Tomatoes? Use diced tomatoes and blend before cooking.
Oven Option: Bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, then simmer in sauce.
Add Cheese: Stuff each meatball with a cube of mozzarella for a melty surprise.
Read More: Cheesy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Recipe Variations
This keto meatball recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
1. Cheesy Italian Meatballs
Add ½ cup shredded mozzarella to the meat mixture and top with more before serving.
2. Spicy Arrabbiata Meatballs
Add ½ teaspoon cayenne and an extra clove of garlic to the sauce for a fiery twist.
3. Greek-Style Meatballs
Use ground lamb, oregano, and lemon zest; serve with keto tzatziki and cucumber salad.
4. Stuffed Meatballs
Insert a cube of provolone or goat cheese into each meatball before cooking.
Want creative keto variations for every craving? Find them in the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes—download it today and start experimenting!
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving: 4 Meatballs + Sauce)
Calories: 410
Protein: 27g
Fat: 31g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Net Carbs: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 520mg
Vitamin A: 15% DV
Vitamin C: 12% DV
Calcium: 18% DV
Iron: 22% DV
Read More: Bacon Egg and Cheese Muffins
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Stovetop: Simmer over low heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Serving Suggestions:
Zoodles: Light and keto-friendly noodle replacement.
Cauliflower Rice: Soaks up the tomato sauce beautifully.
Cheese Crisps or Low-Carb Bread: For a meatball sub twist.
Ready to meal prep smarter? The FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes is perfect for batch cooking and freezer-friendly recipes.
Common Questions
Can I use store-bought tomato sauce?
Yes, but choose a no-sugar-added version with simple ingredients. Look for sauces with fewer than 5g net carbs per serving.
What can I use instead of eggs in the meatballs?
A tablespoon of chia seeds soaked in water can work as a binder if you’re egg-free.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, then simmer in sauce for extra flavor.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
It’s perfect! You can refrigerate or freeze in individual portions for quick, keto-friendly lunches and dinners.
Can I make this in the slow cooker?
Yes. Sear the meatballs, then place them in a slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 4–5 hours.
Conclusion
This flavorful keto meatball recipe delivers all the satisfaction of your favorite Italian dish—minus the guilt. With simple ingredients, a savory homemade tomato sauce, and versatile serving options, it’s the perfect go-to for any keto-friendly meal.
Whether you serve it over zoodles, cauliflower rice, or enjoy them straight from the skillet, these meatballs will leave you full, happy, and on track with your goals. Try them once, and they’ll become a staple in your keto kitchen!
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2. Keto Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
3. Keto Chicken Cauliflower Casserole
4. Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Taquitos
