Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs in Tomato-Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-03 · Updated 2026-05-03

Juicy ground beef meatballs stuffed with melted mozzarella, simmered in a rich, low-carb tomato and fresh basil sauce for a satisfying keto meal. This Italian-inspired keto recipe (low carb), ready in about 45 minutes, blends ground beef, mozzarella cheese, egg 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 480 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.

Ingredients

• 1 lb, 80% lean ground beef
• 4 oz, cut into 12 small cubes mozzarella cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil

The instant-read thermometer we’d check this meat with → Best Instant-Read Thermometers for 2026: Fast, Accurate Picks Under $100

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup almond flour, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Step 2: Divide mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion and place one 1/3 oz cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then carefully form meat around the cheese to seal completely.
3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned on all sides.
4. Step 4: Add 14 oz crushed tomatoes and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until sauce thickens and meatballs are cooked through, reaching 160°F internally.
5. Step 5: Serve meatballs warm with additional fresh basil garnish if desired.