Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Basil Cream Sauce
Juicy ground beef meatballs stuffed with melted mozzarella, simmered in a rich basil cream sauce for a comforting keto entrée. This italian-inspired keto (keto, low carb) ready in about 30 minutes blends 80% lean ground beef, large egg, grated parmesan cheese 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.
Ingredients
- 1 lb, 80% lean ground beef
- 4 oz, cut into 1/2-inch cubes mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- 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, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Step 2: Form the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls, pressing a 1/2-inch cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each, then sealing the meat around the cheese completely.
- Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Step 4: Remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside. Lower heat to medium-low and add 1 tbsp butter to the skillet.
- Step 5: Pour in 3/4 cup heavy cream and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the cream thickens and basil infuses the sauce.
- Step 6: Return meatballs to the skillet and spoon the basil cream sauce over them. Cook together for 2 minutes to heat through before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Basil Cream 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 Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Basil Cream 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 Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Basil Cream 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 Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Basil Cream 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 Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Basil Cream Sauce keto?
Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
