Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Spinach Cream Sauce

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

Tender ground beef meatballs stuffed with melted mozzarella, served in a rich cream sauce infused with spinach and garlic for a satisfying keto meal. This italian-inspired keto (low carb, gluten free) ready in about 45 minutes blends 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.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 520 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/3 cup almond flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  2. Step 2: Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion, place one 1/2-inch mozzarella cube in the center, and shape into meatballs, sealing the cheese inside.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
  4. Step 4: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake meatballs for 10 minutes until cooked through and cheese is melted.
  5. Step 5: While meatballs bake, melt 2 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Step 6: Add 3 cups chopped fresh spinach and cook for 3 minutes until wilted. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
  7. Step 7: Serve meatballs topped with the spinach cream sauce.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Spinach Cream Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (20 min prep + 25 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 Spinach 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 Spinach 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 Spinach 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 Spinach Cream Sauce low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, 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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