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Keto Creamy Taco Meatballs - Comforting, Low-Carb Flavor in Every Bite

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

Ingredients
  

  • For the meatballs:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for tenderness)
  • 1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork (or use all beef)
  • 1/2 small onion, very finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan (binder in place of breadcrumbs)
  • 2 tbsp almond flour (optional, for extra binding)
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade, sugar-free)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt (adjust if your seasoning is salty)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil (for searing)
  • For the creamy taco sauce:
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 small onion, minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp taco seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for color and depth, low-sugar)
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • Salt to taste
  • To finish and serve:
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Thinly sliced green onions
  • Cauliflower rice, sautéed zucchini, or lettuce cups
  • Sour cream or sliced avocado (optional)

Method
 

  1. Mix the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, minced onion, garlic, egg, Parmesan, almond flour, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands to mix until just combined. Don’t overwork the mixture or the meatballs will be tough.
  2. Form the meatballs: Scoop and roll into 1.5-inch balls (about 18–20 meatballs). Place them on a plate or parchment-lined tray.
  3. Sear the meatballs: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add meatballs in a single layer without crowding. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate; they don’t need to be fully cooked yet.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Stir in the minced onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Build the sauce base: Stir in 1 tsp taco seasoning and the tomato paste. Toast for 30 seconds. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
  6. Make it creamy: Add heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir gently as the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. If it looks separated, keep stirring over low heat until glossy.
  7. Return the meatballs: Nestle meatballs into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low for 8–10 minutes, or until the centers are cooked through (165°F/74°C).
  8. Add cheese and finish: Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and stir until melted. Squeeze in lime juice. Taste and adjust salt or taco seasoning as needed.
  9. Garnish and serve: Top with cilantro and green onions. Serve over cauliflower rice, in lettuce cups, or with simply sautéed veggies. Add a dollop of sour cream or sliced avocado if you like.