Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs in Spiced Tomato Sauce

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

Tender ground beef meatballs stuffed with melted mozzarella, simmered in a rich spiced tomato sauce for a comforting keto-friendly meal. This mediterranean-inspired keto (keto, low carb) ready in about 40 minutes blends 85% 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 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.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 480 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 grated parmesan cheese, 1/3 cup almond flour, 2 minced garlic cloves, 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 in your palm and place a 1/3 oz cube of mozzarella cheese (from 4 oz total) in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese and shape into a ball.
  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, turning carefully to brown all sides. Remove meatballs and set aside.
  4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 minced garlic clove, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and 1/2 tsp salt. Simmer sauce for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Step 5: Return meatballs to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes on low heat until meatballs are cooked through and cheese inside is melted.
  6. Step 6: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves before serving. Serve hot.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs in Spiced Tomato 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 Meatballs in Spiced Tomato 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 Spiced Tomato 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 Spiced Tomato 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 Spiced Tomato 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.

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