There’s nothing more comforting than a plate of juicy, savory meatballs, am I right? However, traditional meatballs are usually filled with breadcrumbs, making them a no-go for those of us following a ketogenic lifestyle. But who says we can’t have our cake and eat it too? Or in this case, our meatballs!
Imagine a warm, cozy fire in the middle of winter. The breadcrumbs in standard meatballs are like the logs that keep the fire going. Our bodies, like the fire, burn these carbohydrates for fuel. But when you’re on a keto diet, you are essentially removing these logs and forcing your body to burn fat for fuel instead. That’s where my keto meatballs come into play! They are just as flavorful and satisfying as their carb-laden counterparts, but without the bread. Exciting, isn’t it?
The Keto Difference
The secret to keto meatballs lies in their preparation. Instead of breadcrumbs, we use a combination of almond flour and parmesan cheese. This not only reduces the carbs but adds a delightful nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meatballs. It’s a simple swap, but it makes a world of difference for those of us on a keto diet.
Moreover, the addition of ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, and a good quality, low-carb marinara sauce, make these meatballs just as satisfying and flavorful as traditional ones. I promise, you won’t even miss the breadcrumbs!
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Now, how do we serve these delightful keto meatballs? Traditionally, meatballs are served with a side of pasta or bread, both of which are high in carbs. Instead, you can pair these keto meatballs with a salad, or better yet, serve them over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or another low-carb alternative like spaghetti squash.
Another great idea is to make a meatball sub using a low-carb bread or bun. Top with a bit of extra marinara and a sprinkle of mozzarella for a mouthwatering meal you won’t forget!
The Versatility of Keto Meatballs
Keto meatballs aren’t just for dinner. They make great appetizers for parties and gatherings too. Just make them a bit smaller, stick a toothpick in each one, and you’ve got a keto-friendly snack that everyone will love, regardless of their dietary preferences.
Additionally, these meatballs freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep. Simply cook a big batch, freeze the leftovers, and you’ve got a quick and easy meal ready whenever you need it. Talk about convenience!
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Almond flour
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley)
- Low-carb marinara sauce
- Eggs
- Salt and Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, almond flour, parmesan, garlic, herbs, and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
- Form mixture into meatballs and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake until cooked through and golden brown.
- While meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan.
- Serve meatballs with marinara sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Tips for Keto Meatballs
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs. A light hand is key. Use a cookie scoop to ensure all your meatballs are the same size, which will help them cook evenly. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can also be used. Just reduce the amount by one third, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Keto Meatballs recipe is not just a great low-carb alternative but is bursting with flavor from the garlic, fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese. The almond flour adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the rich, meaty flavor of the beef. It’s a simple, straightforward recipe that delivers on taste and satisfaction – a must-try for anyone on a keto diet or just looking to reduce their carb intake.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Carbohydrate: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 20g