Cheese-Stuffed Pork Meatballs with Garlic Butter Sauce

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

Tender pork meatballs stuffed with melty cheese, simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce for a comforting keto meal. This mediterranean-inspired keto (keto, low carb) ready in about 35 minutes blends ground pork, 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: 15 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 pork, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/3 cup almond flour, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Divide the mixture into 16 equal portions. Flatten each portion in your hand, place one 1/4 oz mozzarella cube in the center, and carefully seal to form a meatball.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown all over.
  4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low, add remaining 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tbsp butter to the skillet, and cook for 2 minutes, spooning the melted garlic butter over the meatballs until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper over the meatballs before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

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

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Cheese-Stuffed Pork Meatballs with 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 Pork Meatballs with 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 Pork Meatballs with 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 Pork Meatballs with 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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