Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Tomato-Basil Sauce

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

Juicy ground beef meatballs stuffed with mozzarella cheese, simmered in a fragrant tomato-basil sauce for a comforting keto dinner. This italian-inspired beef (keto, low carb) ready in about 40 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 410 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: 20 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 410 cal/serving
Build a week of meals around this recipe → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

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, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Using your hands, form 12 equal-sized meatballs. Press a 1/2-inch cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each meatball and seal completely.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned all over.
  4. Step 4: Remove meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 minced garlic clove and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Pour in 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes and add 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves. Simmer sauce for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Step 6: Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and cheese is melted inside. Serve hot.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheese-Stuffed Keto Meatballs with Tomato-Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (20 min prep + 20 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 Tomato-Basil 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 Tomato-Basil 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 Tomato-Basil 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 Tomato-Basil Sauce keto?

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

Related recipes