Keto Meatballs

These Keto Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for any occasion. With their cheesy, savory flavor and robust sauce, they deliver a taste that rivals your favorite pizzeria. These meatballs are not only delicious but also fit perfectly into a keto lifestyle, making them an excellent choice for family dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have these meatballs ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them with zoodles, cauliflower rice, or on their own as a tasty appetizer.
• Cheesy Goodness: Topped with mozzarella and Italian cheese blend, every bite is melty and delicious.
• Keto-Friendly: Low in carbs yet high in protein, these meatballs fit seamlessly into your keto diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make these keto meatballs, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Ideal for searing the meatballs to lock in flavors before baking.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients evenly for consistent flavor throughout the meatballs.
• Baking dish: Keeps the meatballs together while they cook in the oven.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 16 ounce 85/15 ground beef
• 16 ounce ground Italian sausage
• 2 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Sauce

• 14 ounce pizza sauce
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/4 cup Italian cheese blend

For Topping

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Keto Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the meatballs.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

• In a frying pan on high heat, add a little oil.
• Form the meat mixture into balls and sear each side until browned. Avoid crowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• Once all meatballs are seared, remove them from the pan.
• Add tomato paste to the pan and cook it for about 10 seconds before adding pizza sauce.
• Stir in the Italian cheese blend until well mixed.
• Return the meatballs to the pan and mix gently with the sauce.

Step 4: Bake with Cheese

• Cover the tops of the meatballs with shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Place in the preheated oven uncovered for about 20 minutes or until cheese has browned.
• Ensure that if your meatballs are normal size, they will be cooked through at this mark. Each serving should give you approximately 4 ounces of meat.

How to Serve Keto Meatballs

Keto meatballs are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On Zoodles

• Zucchini noodles: Serve your keto meatballs over zoodles for a fresh, low-carb alternative to pasta. A light drizzle of olive oil can enhance the flavors.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice: This is an excellent base for your meatballs. It adds texture and is a great way to keep your meal low-carb while still feeling hearty.

In a Lettuce Wrap

• Lettuce wraps: For a fun, fresh twist, wrap the meatballs in large lettuce leaves. Add some sliced tomatoes and avocados for extra flavor and nutrition.

As an Appetizer

• Party platter: Serve keto meatballs as bite-sized appetizers at parties. Offer toothpicks for easy serving and pair them with marinara sauce for dipping.

With Cheese Topping

• Extra cheese: Top your meatballs with additional mozzarella or Parmesan before baking for an indulgent, cheesy experience.

How to Perfect Keto Meatballs

To make the best keto meatballs, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use quality meats: Choose high-fat ground beef and sausage for juicy, flavorful meatballs.
• Don’t overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid tough meatballs. Overworking the mixture can lead to a dense texture.
• Sear before baking: Browning the meatballs in a pan adds depth of flavor and helps lock in moisture.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overcooking can dry out the meatballs; they should be tender and juicy.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
• Chill before cooking: If you have time, chill the formed meatballs in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape.

Best Side Dishes for Keto Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your keto meatballs can create a balanced meal full of flavors. Here are some excellent side options that complement this delicious dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower infused with garlic makes a perfect low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil and salt add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus is not only healthy but also brings vibrant color to your plate.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Use bell peppers filled with cheese or cauliflower rice as a flavorful side that pairs well with keto meatballs.
5. Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad tossed with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and nuts adds brightness to your meal.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A simple slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to savory meatballs.
7. Zucchini Chips: Crispy baked zucchini chips offer a satisfying crunch alongside soft, cheesy meatballs.
8. Broccoli with Cheese Sauce: Steamed broccoli topped with melted cheese sauce makes for an indulgent yet healthy side dish.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving ideas and sides to make your keto meatball experience truly memorable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making keto meatballs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect meatballs every time.

• Skipping the Searing: Many people forget to sear the meatballs before baking. Searing adds flavor and helps retain moisture. Always sear your meatballs in batches for the best results.
• Overmixing the Meat: It’s tempting to mix everything thoroughly, but overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients can lead to imbalanced flavors or textures. Use precise measurements for seasonings and cheese to ensure consistent outcomes.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each oven is different, and cooking times may vary. Always check your meatballs for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
• Using Low-Quality Meat: The quality of your ground beef and sausage matters greatly. Opt for high-quality, fresh meats for richer flavor and better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover keto meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Keto Meatballs

• For long-term storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Keto Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of sauce or water. Cover and cook for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats for keto meatballs?

You can certainly use ground turkey or chicken as alternatives, though they may alter the flavor slightly.

What is the best sauce for keto meatballs?

A low-carb pizza sauce works great! Look for brands with no added sugars or make your own from scratch using tomatoes and herbs.

How do I know when my keto meatballs are done?

Use a food thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety.

Can I bake these keto meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes! Baking is a healthier option. Just arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F until cooked through.

Final Thoughts

These keto meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different herbs or spices based on your preferences. They’re perfect as an appetizer, in pasta dishes, or even as meal prep options. Try making these flavorful bites today!

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Keto Meatballs

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four

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Description

Keto Meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic dish, perfect for any occasion. These savory meatballs, made with a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, are packed with flavor and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests, they fit seamlessly into your keto lifestyle. Serve them over zoodles or cauliflower rice, or enjoy them as an appetizer at your next gathering. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip up these cheesy delights in no time!

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Ingredients

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• 16 oz ground beef (85/15)
• 16 oz Italian sausage
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 14 oz pizza sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/4 cup Italian cheese blend
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, eggs, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese until just mixed.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs and sear in a frying pan over high heat until browned on all sides.
4. In the same pan, add tomato paste and cook briefly before adding pizza sauce and Italian cheese blend; stir to combine.
5. Return meatballs to the pan and coat with sauce.
6. Transfer to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until cooked through.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Keto

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 ounces (113g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 95mg