These Easy Low-Carb Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are super cheesy and full of flavor! Made with ground meat and gooey mozzarella inside, they are perfect for dinner or a snack.
Who doesn’t love a meatball that surprises you with melted cheese? I like to serve them with a tasty sauce or just enjoy them plain. Trust me, they won’t last long on your plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using a mix of beef and pork for better flavor. But if you want something leaner, turkey or chicken works too. Feel free to choose a substitute that fits your diet.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives the meatballs their gooey center, which is a delight! If you want a stronger flavor, try a mix of mozzarella and provolone or fontina, but keep mozzarella for its meltiness.
Almond Flour: This ingredient acts as a binder. If you prefer, you can use coconut flour or ground flaxseed, but keep in mind that each will slightly change the taste and texture.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch, but dried works fine too. Using basil can also add a lovely flavor to the meatballs, perfect if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Do You Keep Meatballs Tender and Juicy?
Getting juicy, tender meatballs is all about how you mix and cook them. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture; just combine until you don’t see dry ingredients. This helps keep a soft texture.
- When shaping meatballs, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Brown them in a skillet for a few minutes to develop flavor before baking.
- Make sure to check the temperature to avoid overcooking; 160°F (71°C) is perfect for doneness!
Follow these tips for meatballs that are not only delicious but also melt-in-your-mouth tender! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Low-Carb Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup almond flour (for low-carb binding)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1-2 cups low-carb marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for cooking. That makes about 40-45 minutes total time from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make cleanup easy.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, almond flour, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is just blended together—don’t overdo it, or your meatballs might turn out tough.
3. Make the Meatballs:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place around 1 teaspoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, then fold the meat around the cheese and shape it into a ball, sealing the cheese inside. Repeat this with the rest of your ingredients until all the meat mixture is used.
4. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a few meatballs at a time and brown them on all sides, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side. They don’t have to be fully cooked; you’ll finish them in the oven.
5. Bake the Meatballs:
Transfer the browned meatballs to your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven to bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, warm up some low-carb marinara sauce and pour it over the meatballs before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch. Enjoy your cheesy, low-carb mozzarella-stuffed meatballs!
Bon appétit!
FAQs for Easy Low-Carb Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, and you may want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste.
What If I Don’t Have Almond Flour?
No worries! You can replace almond flour with coconut flour or ground pork rinds. If you go with coconut flour, use only about half the amount, as it absorbs more moisture than almond flour.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you want to make them further in advance, freeze the uncooked meatballs. Just thaw them in the fridge before cooking!
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet with a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist!