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Keto Meatball Parmesan Bake - Comfort Food Without the Carbs

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Ground beef (80/20 or 85/15), 1.5 pounds
  • Italian sausage (mild or hot), 0.5 pound, casings removed (optional but recommended)
  • Almond flour, 1/2 cup
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup (plus extra for topping)
  • Shredded mozzarella, 2 cups
  • Eggs, 2 large
  • Garlic, 3 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Onion powder, 1 teaspoon
  • Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons
  • Crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for mixing and garnish)
  • Low-carb marinara sauce, 2 cups (look for no added sugar)
  • Olive oil, 1–2 tablespoons
  • Salt and black pepper

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar casserole.
  2. Mix the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, almond flour, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, 1–2 tablespoons chopped parsley or basil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  3. Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs (about 1.5 inches). You should get around 20–24.
  4. Brown the meatballs (optional but recommended): Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Brown meatballs in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly seared. Transfer to a plate. They won’t be fully cooked yet.
  5. Layer the bake: Spread 1 cup of marinara on the bottom of the baking dish. Nestle the meatballs in a single layer. Spoon remaining marinara evenly over the top.
  6. Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatballs. Top with a generous handful of grated Parmesan.
  7. Bake: Place the dish on the center rack and bake for 18–22 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Broil for color: Turn the broiler to high and broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is golden and lightly crisp at the edges.
  9. Rest and garnish: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and an extra pinch of Parmesan.
  10. Serve: Spoon into bowls and enjoy as is, or pair with sautéed zucchini noodles, roasted broccoli, or a crisp green salad.