Cheddar-Stuffed Keto Meatballs in Garlic Butter Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy ground beef meatballs stuffed with sharp cheddar cheese and simmered in a savory garlic butter sauce, perfect for a low-carb, high-fat keto dinner. This american-inspired keto (high protein, gluten free) ready in about 30 minutes blends (85% lean) ground beef, large egg, almond flour into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 American cuisine 520 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup almond flour, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper; mix gently until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Take about 2 tbsp of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm, then place one 1/2-inch cheddar cheese cube in the center and fold meat around it, rolling into a tight meatball; repeat to make 12 meatballs.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and foaming.
  4. Step 4: Add 12 meatballs to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides.
  5. Step 5: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 cup water to the skillet, then cover with a lid and simmer for 8 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and cheese inside is melted.
  6. Step 6: Remove lid, add remaining 2 tbsp butter and 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, and cook uncovered for 2 minutes, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the meatballs.
  7. Step 7: Serve hot with a drizzle of garlic butter sauce spooned over each meatball.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheddar-Stuffed Keto Meatballs in Garlic Butter Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Cheddar-Stuffed Keto Meatballs in Garlic Butter Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cheddar-Stuffed Keto Meatballs in Garlic Butter Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Cheddar-Stuffed Keto Meatballs in Garlic Butter Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Cheddar-Stuffed Keto Meatballs in Garlic Butter Sauce high protein?

Yes — this recipe is tagged high protein, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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