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Keto Garlic Asiago Meatballs - Juicy, Cheesy, and Low-Carb Comfort Food

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for best juiciness)
  • 1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork (optional but recommended for flavor)
  • 3/4 cup finely grated Asiago cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup almond flour (or 2 tbsp finely ground pork rinds)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
  • 1 cup low-sugar marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh basil or extra parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep. Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment or lightly grease it. Set a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Mix the meatball base. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, grated Asiago, garlic, almond flour, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands to mix until just combined. Do not overwork.
  3. Form the meatballs. Scoop 2-tablespoon portions and roll into balls about 1.5 inches wide. You should get about 18–22 meatballs.
  4. Sear for flavor. Add olive oil to the skillet. When shimmering, sear meatballs in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning to brown most sides. You’re not cooking through—just building a crust.
  5. Finish in the oven. Transfer seared meatballs to the sheet pan and bake 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Optional sauce warm-up. If serving with marinara, warm it in a small saucepan over low heat while the meatballs finish baking. Choose a no-added-sugar sauce to keep carbs low.
  7. Rest and serve. Let meatballs rest 3–5 minutes. Serve over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, sautéed greens, or with a simple salad. Spoon on marinara if using and garnish with herbs.