If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, these Keto Meatballs are your new go-to. Packed with juicy Italian sausage and ground beef, smothered in rich tomato sauce, and finished with a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese, they satisfy that meat-and-cheese craving without the extra carbs. This recipe combines simple ingredients to deliver bold flavors and a satisfying texture, making Keto Meatballs a wonderful centerpiece for any meal, whether for a casual dinner or a family gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but crucial to achieving that perfect blend of flavor, moisture, and cheesy goodness in your Keto Meatballs. Each component brings something special to the table—from the savory depth of the meats to the sharp bite of Parmesan.

16 ounce 85/15 ground beef: Provides a juicy, lean base with just enough fat for flavor and texture.
16 ounce ground Italian sausage: Adds depth with its aromatic herbs and spices.
2 large eggs: Act as a binder to keep your meatballs tender and intact.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the meat and sauce.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a subtle heat and peppery aroma.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a mild onion flavor without unnecessary moisture.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory note that complements the meat.
14 ounce pizza sauce: Serves as the rich, tangy base sauce for coating the meatballs.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor for a thicker, richer sauce.
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled into the sauce to boost cheesy goodness.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: A melty topping that browns and adds gooey indulgence.

How to Make Keto Meatballs

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F so it’s ready for the final baking step. This ensures your meatballs will cook evenly and the cheese topping will brown beautifully.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

Form your meat mixture into meatballs and heat a frying pan on high with a bit of oil. Sear the meatballs in batches without overcrowding the pan, just enough to caramelize the outside on one or two sides. This quick sear locks in flavor and gives them a lovely crust while the inside remains tender.

Step 3: Make the Sauce and Combine

Once the meatballs are seared and removed, add the tomato paste to the pan and cook it briefly to deepen its flavor. Then stir in the pizza sauce along with the 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Mix it all together before nestling the meatballs back into this rich, cheesy sauce. Remove the pan from heat to prepare for baking.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the meatballs and sauce. Place the pan uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This step completes cooking the meatballs and creates that irresistible cheese crust.

How to Serve Keto Meatballs

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a bright contrast to the rich meatballs. A light sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan just before serving can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, giving a final touch of savory sharpness.

Side Dishes

Keto Meatballs shine alongside low-carb favorites like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to soak up the sauce. You can also serve them with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice for a crisp, refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these meatballs on skewers for a party-friendly appetizer. Alternatively, spoon the meatballs over a baked spaghetti squash for a festive presentation that stays true to your keto lifestyle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Keto Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so reheating tastes just as good if not better.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, these meatballs freeze wonderfully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can keep up to 3 months without losing their flavor or texture.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave for convenience. Keep a lid or foil on your dish to retain moisture and prevent the meatballs from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use different meats for Keto Meatballs?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses beef and Italian sausage for flavor and texture, you can switch in ground turkey, chicken, or pork depending on preference. Just keep an eye on fat content to maintain juiciness.

Is the tomato sauce keto-friendly?

Yes, using a low-sugar or no-sugar-added pizza sauce keeps the carb count low. The tomato paste concentrates flavor without adding carbs, making the sauce perfectly keto-compliant.

Can I make Keto Meatballs without cheese?

Of course! Cheese adds richness and flavor, but the meatballs themselves are delicious on their own or topped with a simple sugar-free marinara sauce if you prefer a dairy-free option.

How do I prevent meatballs from drying out?

Using a combination of ground beef and sausage helps maintain moisture, and searing the meatballs locks in juices. Baking them in sauce also ensures they stay tender and flavorful.

Can I bake the meatballs without searing first?

You can, but searing adds a beautiful caramelized crust and deeper flavor. If you’re short on time, bake them directly in sauce but expect a slightly different texture and appearance.

Final Thoughts

Making Keto Meatballs at home is a true joy because the results are so richly rewarding and surprisingly simple. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this recipe brings familiar comfort with a low-carb twist that you’ll want on repeat. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner or party crowd-pleaser.