Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Zesty Tomato Cream Sauce

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

Tender ground beef meatballs filled with melted cheese, simmered in a zesty tomato cream sauce for a hearty low-carb dinner. This italian-inspired keto (low carb) ready in about 45 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 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: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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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, 1/4 cup almond flour, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  2. Step 2: Shape mixture into 16 meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Press a 1/4-inch cube of 4 oz mozzarella cheese inside each meatball, sealing well to encase the cheese.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, about 3 minutes per side.
  4. Step 4: Pour 1 cup no-sugar-added tomato sauce into the skillet with the meatballs, then spoon 1/3 cup heavy cream over the top. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
  5. Step 5: Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and cheese is melted inside.
  6. Step 6: Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil and serve hot for a creamy, spicy tomato flavor with cheesy centers.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Zesty Tomato Cream Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (15 min prep + 30 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 with Zesty Tomato 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 Meatballs with Zesty Tomato 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 Meatballs with Zesty Tomato 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 Meatballs with Zesty Tomato 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.

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