Keto Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
These Keto Italian Meatballs simmered in a rich homemade marinara sauce are a perfect low-carb, gluten-free comfort meal. Made with juicy ground beef, fresh herbs, and topped with parmesan, this recipe is full of authentic Italian flavors without breadcrumbs or added sugars. Ideal for keto meal prep, family dinners, and anyone craving a hearty, protein-packed dish.
Ingredients
Marinara Sauce Ingredients
- 0.25 cup olive oil extra virgin
- 0.5 medium onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced or pressed
- 28 oz canned chopped tomatoes preferably San Marzano
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- to taste salt
- to taste freshly ground black pepper
Meatball Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef 80/20 fat ratio recommended
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
Instructions
Prepare the Marinara Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and gently mash them with a wooden spoon. Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
Make and Cook the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, salt, pepper, parsley, garlic powder, and grated parmesan. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs about the size of a walnut.
- Carefully place each meatball into the simmering marinara sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Notes
- Use high-fat ground beef (80/20) for juicier meatballs.
- Freshly grate parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Simmer gently on low heat to keep meatballs tender and moist.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a mild spicy kick.