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Keto Garlic Parmesan Meatballs - Juicy, Cheesy, and Low-Carb

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

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken, turkey, or beef (chicken/turkey for leaner, beef for richer)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (the powdery kind clings best)
  • 1/3 cup almond flour (binds without carbs)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder in a pinch)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning)
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2–3/4 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for searing or greasing)
  • Optional finish: 2 tbsp melted butter + 1 clove minced garlic + extra Parmesan and parsley
  • Optional for serving: Low-sugar marinara, zucchini noodles, or a simple arugula salad

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment and lightly grease it. If pan-searing first, warm a large skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil.
  2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, whisk the egg. Add Parmesan, almond flour, garlic, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined.
  3. Add the meat: Gently mix in the ground meat with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Don’t overwork it, or the meatballs can turn dense.
  4. Shape: Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of mixture per meatball and roll into balls. You should get 18–22 meatballs, depending on size.
  5. Optional sear: For extra flavor, sear the meatballs in the skillet for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake: Bake for 12–16 minutes, until cooked through and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) for poultry or 160°F (71°C) for beef/pork.
  7. Garlic-butter finish (optional): Mix melted butter with minced garlic. Toss the hot meatballs with the garlic butter, then sprinkle more Parmesan and parsley on top.
  8. Serve: Enjoy with low-sugar marinara, over zucchini noodles, or alongside roasted veggies or salad.