Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs in Garlic Butter Sauce

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

Juicy ground beef meatballs stuffed with melted mozzarella cheese, simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce perfect for a keto-friendly dinner. This mediterranean-inspired keto (keto, low carb) ready in about 35 minutes blends 85% lean ground beef, grated parmesan cheese, large 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 420 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: 20 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 420 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, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Press 1 cube of 4 oz mozzarella cheese (cut into 12 equal cubes) into the center of each meatball and seal tightly.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering.
  4. Step 4: Add the meatballs and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned all over.
  5. Step 5: Reduce heat to low, add the remaining 2 tbsp butter and 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, and spoon the garlic butter over the meatballs. Cover and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and cheese inside is melted.
  6. Step 6: Sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley over the meatballs before serving warm.

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Frequently asked questions

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

Total time is about 35 minutes (15 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 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 Cheese-Stuffed 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 Cheese-Stuffed 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 Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs in Garlic Butter 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.

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