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Cheesy Keto Meatballs - Easy, Satisfying, and Low-Carb Comfort Food

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80–85% lean)
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground pork (or turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan (plus extra for serving)
  • 1/3 cup almond flour (very fine)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella (low-moisture, part-skim)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil and oregano)
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for brightness)
  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil (for searing, optional)
  • 2 cups low-sugar marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

Method
 

  1. Prep your station: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil and set a wire rack on top if you have one. This helps air circulate for even browning.
  2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir in almond flour and Parmesan to create a thick, seasoned paste.
  3. Add the meats: Add ground beef and ground pork to the bowl. Sprinkle in the parsley. Gently mix with your hands until it’s just combined. Don’t overwork it or the meatballs can turn dense.
  4. Fold in the cheese: Add shredded mozzarella and fold it evenly through the mixture. It should feel moist but not wet, and it should hold together easily.
  5. Shape: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form 1.5–2-inch balls (about golf-ball size). You should get roughly 18–22 meatballs. Place them on the prepared rack or sheet.
  6. Option A — Bake: Bake for 16–20 minutes, until the centers reach 160–165°F (71–74°C) and the tops are browned. If you want extra color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
  7. Option B — Sear then Simmer: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear meatballs on all sides until browned, about 6–8 minutes total. Reduce heat, pour in low-sugar marinara, and simmer 8–10 minutes until cooked through and saucy.
  8. Serve: Spoon with sauce, sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley on top, and pair with zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or a simple salad.