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If you are craving a comforting, flavorful dish that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, this Keto Garlic Butter Meatballs Recipe is an absolute must-try. Juicy, tender meatballs infused with garlic and fresh herbs come together with a rich, buttery sauce that elevates every bite. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking to impress friends at your next dinner, these meatballs strike the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness that will keep everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find but pack a powerful punch in terms of flavor and texture. Each element plays a specific role, from the Parmesan adding a subtle nuttiness to the almond flour keeping things keto-friendly while binding the meatballs perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein, providing juicy flavor and a hearty base.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty note that deepens the overall taste.
- 1/4 cup almond flour: A keto-friendly binder that keeps the meatballs tender without carbs.
- 1 large egg: Helps hold the meatball mixture together perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that bold garlic flavor that defines this dish.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds freshness and a delightful pop of green color.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle hint of warmth and spice.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Gives the sauce its luscious, silky texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the garlic butter sauce with a zesty finish.
- Additional fresh parsley for garnish: Freshens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Keto Garlic Butter Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting the oven ready early means your meatballs will bake perfectly without waiting around, allowing you to keep the cooking process smooth and on schedule.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Parmesan, almond flour, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until it’s well incorporated. This ensures each bite bursts with balanced flavor and the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into about 1-inch sized meatballs. Uniform size helps them cook evenly, so take your time forming each one and place them neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the meatballs cook for 15 to 20 minutes until they are browned on the outside and fully cooked through. Baking rather than frying keeps the meatballs tender without excess oil, making this dish lighter but still incredibly satisfying.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the meatballs bake, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt, then stir in extra minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, releasing that irresistible aroma that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 6: Add Lemon and Toss Meatballs
Mix in the lemon juice to uplift the rich butter, then gently add the baked meatballs to the skillet. Toss them carefully so each meatball is coated in the luscious garlic butter sauce, then let them simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step infuses them with a bright, buttery garlic goodness that is utterly addictive.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and sprinkle generously with fresh parsley. This fresh green touch not only beautifies the plate but adds a subtle herbaceous flavor that complements the richness perfectly.
How to Serve Keto Garlic Butter Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh parsley on top is simple but truly elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. For extra flair, you can add a little grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the whole plate even more.
Side Dishes
Because these keto garlic butter meatballs are so rich and flavorful, pairing them with crisp, fresh sides works beautifully. Think a crunchy Caesar salad, steamed green beans tossed in garlic butter, or even buttery mashed cauliflower for an ultra-comforting combination that keeps you in ketosis.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this crowd-pleaser into a fun appetizer by serving the meatballs on skewers with small dipping bowls of extra garlic butter sauce. Alternatively, pile them over zucchini noodles or use them as a hearty topping on keto-friendly pizza crust — any way you serve them, they are bound to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatballs keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Storing them in their garlic butter sauce helps preserve flavor and moisture, so they stay juicy when reheated.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. Separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well for up to 3 months, making this recipe fantastic for batch cooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop in a skillet with a splash of water or extra butter to prevent drying out. Warm them over medium-low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to keep the garlic butter sauce silky and coating every meatball.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well, just keep in mind that the meatballs may be a bit leaner and milder in flavor. You might want to add a touch more seasoning or a bit more butter sauce for extra richness.
Is almond flour necessary for this recipe?
Almond flour is the perfect keto-friendly binder here, but if you have a nut allergy or don’t have it on hand, you can try crushed pork rinds or coconut flour, though you might need to adjust the amount slightly for texture.
Can I make these meatballs vegan or vegetarian?
This particular recipe relies heavily on ground beef and egg for texture and flavor. For a vegan or vegetarian alternative, consider using plant-based meat substitutes and a flax egg, then adjust cooking times and seasonings accordingly.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the garlic butter sauce, but it’s entirely optional. You can adjust the amount or skip it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover meatballs without drying them out?
Gentle reheating on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra butter helps keep the meatballs moist and the sauce luscious. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which can cause them to dry out.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully satisfying about these Keto Garlic Butter Meatballs Recipe — from the juicy meat encased in the perfect blend of herbs and cheese to the rich garlic butter sauce that ties every bite together. Whether you’re new to keto cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a fast favorite. So go ahead, try it out and treat yourself to a comforting meal that feels indulgent but stays perfectly on track with your low-carb goals!
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Keto Garlic Butter Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Delicious and flavorful Keto Garlic Butter Meatballs that are low-carb and perfect for a satisfying meal. Made with ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, these meatballs are baked to perfection and then tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and red pepper flakes for extra zest.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced (additional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Additional fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Parmesan, almond flour, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and develop a golden brown crust.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt completely.
- Sauté Garlic and Spices: Add additional minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Lemon Juice and Meatballs: Stir in lemon juice, then add the baked meatballs to the skillet. Toss gently to fully coat them in the garlic butter sauce.
- Simmer Meatballs: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, letting them absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the garlic butter meatballs to a serving dish and garnish generously with additional fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the sauce.
- These meatballs can be served with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete keto meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
