Keto Meatballs

These Keto Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic pizzeria favorite. Combining ground beef and Italian sausage, these meatballs are bursting with flavor and topped with gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, they fit seamlessly into a low-carb lifestyle while satisfying your cravings. Enjoy them on their own, in a salad, or with your favorite keto-friendly sides!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: Each bite is packed with savory goodness thanks to a blend of Italian sausage and robust pizza sauce.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up quickly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even stuffed in peppers for a unique meal.
• Cheese Lovers Dream: Topped with melted mozzarella and Italian cheese blend, they’re irresistibly cheesy.
• Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those on a keto diet, these meatballs are low in carbs but high in satisfaction.

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Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious keto meatballs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Ideal for searing the meatballs evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure flavor in every bite.
• Baking dish: Necessary for baking the meatballs to achieve that perfect cheesy finish.

Ingredients

Meat Ingredients

• 16 ounce 85/15 ground beef
• 16 ounce ground Italian sausage

Binder Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce Ingredients

• 14 ounce pizza sauce
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/4 cup Italian cheese blend
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Keto Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your meatballs cook evenly and develop that delicious crust as they bake.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

In a large frying pan over high heat, add a little oil.
1. Form the mixture into meatballs.
2. Sear each meatball until browned on one or two sides.
3. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Once all meatballs are seared:
1. Remove them from the pan.
2. Add tomato paste and sauté for about 10 seconds before adding pizza sauce.
3. Stir in the Italian cheese blend until combined.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

1. Return the seared meatballs to the sauce in the frying pan.
2. Cover each meatball with shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Transfer the dish to your preheated oven uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is browned.

Enjoy these flavorful keto meatballs as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Keto Meatballs

Keto meatballs are versatile and can be served in many ways to suit your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Zucchini Noodles

• Pair your meatballs with zucchini noodles for a light and low-carb alternative to pasta. The noodles soak up the robust sauce beautifully.

On a Bed of Cauliflower Rice

• Serve keto meatballs over cauliflower rice for a filling yet healthy side. The rice adds texture without the carbs, making it a perfect match.

As Meatball Subs

• Use low-carb bread or lettuce wraps to create delicious meatball subs. Fill the bread with meatballs, sauce, and cheese for an indulgent treat.

With a Fresh Salad

• Accompany your meatballs with a fresh green salad. The crispness of the vegetables contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the meatballs.

In a Cheese Bake

• Layer cooked meatballs with sauce and cheese in a baking dish. Bake until bubbly for an easy, cheesy casserole that’s sure to please everyone.

How to Perfect Keto Meatballs

To achieve the best keto meatballs, consider these essential tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose high-quality ground beef and sausage for optimal flavor. The fat content adds moisture and richness.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine ingredients just until blended for tender meatballs.
• Sear Before Baking: Searing locks in juices and adds depth of flavor. A quick sear on each side before baking makes all the difference.
• Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh or dried herbs like basil or oregano to enhance aroma and taste. These add complexity without additional carbs.
• Keep Portions Consistent: Use a scoop to ensure uniform size. This helps all meatballs cook evenly in the oven.
• Let Them Rest: Allow cooked meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This lets juices redistribute for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Keto Meatballs

Complement your keto meatballs with these satisfying side dishes that keep your meal balanced and delicious.

1. Garlic Butter Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in garlic butter for a savory side that pairs well with meatballs.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned with olive oil and spices, roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and nutrition.
3. Cheesy Spinach Casserole: A creamy spinach dish baked with cheese makes for a decadent side that’s still keto-friendly.
4. Cabbage Slaw: Fresh cabbage slaw dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to rich meatballs.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with cheese, spices, and ground turkey make an excellent low-carb accompaniment.
6. Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries are not only tasty but also add an extra veggie boost to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making keto meatballs can be easy, but there are common mistakes that might ruin your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing the meat too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine ingredients just until blended for a tender bite.
• Skipping the searing step: Searing adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your keto meatballs.
• Not measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial, especially for spices and cheese. Use measuring cups and spoons for consistency in flavor.
• Using low-quality sauce: A robust sauce elevates your dish. Choose a high-quality pizza or marinara sauce to ensure great taste.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking times vary based on meatball size. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• These keto meatballs can last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Keto Meatballs

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Keto Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of sauce in a pan and reheat on medium heat until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making keto meatballs that may help you.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. Just adjust the seasoning slightly as these meats have milder flavors.

Are these keto meatballs gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making them suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How many carbs are in keto meatballs?

Each serving contains only about 5.6 grams of carbs, making them perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet.

Can I add vegetables to my keto meatballs?

Definitely! Chopped spinach or zucchini can be added for extra nutrients without significantly increasing carbs.

How do I make keto meatballs spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice up your keto meatballs. Adjust according to your heat tolerance!

Final Thoughts

These keto meatballs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different spices or cheese blends according to your taste. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main course or as part of a hearty meal, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings!