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Recipe

Cheesy Keto Meatball Casserole

Updated on 4 min read
Keto Cheesy Meatball Cass 17 Recipe

Quick Description

This Cheesy Keto Meatball Casserole is a satisfying and flavorful dish made with meatballs loaded with parmesan, mozzarella, and fresh herbs, baked in a cheesy sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s low-carb and perfect for a keto-friendly dinner.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 6–8
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Meatballs

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup grated onion
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Casserole

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (sugar-free)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
    • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
    • Mix everything together until fully incorporated.
  2. Form the Meatballs:
    • Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 ½ inches in diameter. You should get approximately 20–24 meatballs.
  3. Brown the Meatballs:
    • Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Brown the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. (They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as they’ll finish cooking in the casserole.)
    • Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Assemble the Casserole:
    • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom.
    • Place the browned meatballs on top of the sauce, spacing them evenly.
  3. Top with Cheese:
    • Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

  1. Bake the Casserole:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F), and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Garnish and Serve:
    • Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
    • Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.
    • Serve hot and enjoy!

Additional Notes

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day ahead. Assemble the casserole, refrigerate, and then bake when ready to serve.
  • Flavor Variations: Add fresh basil or oregano to the marinara sauce for extra flavor.
  • Toppings: For extra flavor, sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Dietary Info

  • Low-Carb
  • Keto-Friendly
  • Gluten-Free
  • High-Protein
  • Dairy-Based

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, though beef provides a richer flavor.
  • Marinara Sauce: Use sugar-free marinara or tomato sauce with added spices. Avoid store-bought sauces with added sugars.
  • Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, cheddar or provolone also work great in this casserole.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Add Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Serve with a Salad: Pair this casserole with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
  • Add Heat: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
  • Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or until hot.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Carbs: 5 g
  • Net Carbs: 3 g
  • Fiber: 2 g

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe, but it will result in a leaner meatball. Add extra seasonings or cheese for flavor.

Q: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, but make sure to choose a sugar-free variety. You can also make your own tomato sauce to ensure it’s keto-friendly.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the casserole a day in advance. Bake it right before serving.

Optional Personal Story

This Cheesy Keto Meatball Casserole is my go-to recipe for busy nights when I want something comforting, filling, and low-carb. It’s easy to make, and the family loves it. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping!

Call-to-Action

Try this Cheesy Keto Meatball Casserole tonight! It’s a simple and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy, and it fits perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

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