Thanksgiving is all about comfort, family, and dishes that bring people together—and these Carnivore Meatballs with Beef Heart check all the boxes.
Imagine serving a platter of tender, flavorful meatballs that surprise everyone with their delicious taste and secret nutritional boost. They’re an unexpected twist on traditional holiday fare and a conversation starter for sure!
Whether you serve them as an appetizer or alongside your main feast, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Secret Ingredient That No One Notices
Let’s be real—These meatballs deliver all the benefits of beef heart—like iron, B vitamins, and CoQ10—without anyone realizing they’re eating organ meat.
I’ve served these at family gatherings, and not a single person guessed the “secret ingredient.” Trust me, it’s a game-changer for sneaking in extra nutrients while keeping things tasty.
New Tradition to Share with Family
The first time I made these meatballs for Thanksgiving, I wasn’t sure how they’d be received. But as soon as my husband and kids took their first bite, their faces lit up. “Are there more of these?” they asked before I could even sit down!
Now, it’s become a bit of a family tradition—one that feels extra special because it’s both nourishing and unique.
This year, bring something unexpected to your holiday table with a dish that’s not just healthy but also packed with love and warmth.
Table of Contents
Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights)
Here’s why you’ll absolutely love these Carnivore Meatballs with Beef Heart:
- Packed with Nutrition: Beef heart is a nutrient powerhouse, rich in iron, zinc, CoQ10, and essential B vitamins, making every bite as wholesome as it is flavorful.
- Easy to Make: With just three simple ingredients and a quick prep, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or effortless meal prep.
- Mild Flavor: Don’t let the idea of organ meats scare you—beef heart blends seamlessly with ground beef, creating a savory and approachable taste.
- Versatile Dish: Whether you’re on a carnivore, keto, or low-carb diet, these meatballs are the perfect addition to your menu. They’re zero-carb and fit effortlessly into any meal plan.
- Family-Approved: Even picky eaters won’t know they’re enjoying a nutrient-packed dish—my kids love them, and I didn’t even have to convince them!
These meatballs are not just a recipe—they’re a practical, delicious way to bring more health and variety to your table. Give them a try and watch them disappear!
Ingredients Needed
- Ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base.
- Ground beef heart: Adds nutrient density without overpowering flavor.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the meats.
Tip: Grass-fed options elevate the flavor and nutrition of this dish.
How to Make Carnivore Meatballs
Here’s a quick overview of how to make these juicy, flavorful meatballs:
Combine: Mix ground beef and beef heart in a bowl, seasoning with salt for a well-balanced flavor.
Shape: Roll the mixture into evenly-sized balls to ensure even cooking.
Bake: Arrange the meatballs in a baking dish and bake at 350°F until cooked through, letting the natural juices create a savory sauce.
Serve warm, spooning the natural juices over the meatballs for a simple and delicious finish.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They stay juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
- Freeze for Later: These meatballs freeze like a dream! Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months.
Pro tip: Freeze them in single layers first so they don’t stick together. - Reheating Made Easy: For best results, reheat in the oven at 300°F or gently in a skillet to retain their tenderness. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy Solo: These meatballs are delicious all on their own—just spoon the natural juices from the baking dish over them for an easy, flavorful finish.
- Pair with Veggies: If you’re keto or low-carb, pair them with sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or mashed cauliflower for a satisfying meal.
- Add to Broth: For a comforting carnivore meal, serve these meatballs in a warm beef or bone broth—it’s hearty, filling, and oh-so nourishing!
- Snack-Worthy: Need a high-protein snack? These meatballs are portable and perfect for on-the-go eating.
Whether you’re meal-prepping or serving these meatballs for dinner, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.
Tips & FAQs
Q: What does beef heart taste like?
Beef heart has a mild, beefy flavor that blends seamlessly with ground beef in this recipe. It’s less intense than liver, making it an excellent introduction to organ meats.
Q: Can I adjust the ratio of ground beef to beef heart?
Yes! If you’re new to organ meats, start with a 75/25 ratio (ground beef to beef heart) and gradually increase the beef heart portion as you get accustomed to the flavor.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Cooked meatballs can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain their juicy texture.
Q: Can I make this recipe paleo-friendly?
It already is! The recipe contains no dairy, grains, or sugars, aligning perfectly with paleo guidelines.
Q: How do I grind beef heart at home?
If you can’t find pre-ground beef heart, trim off any connective tissue and pulse the heart in a food processor until finely ground.
How This Recipe Fits Into Carnivore Diet
Health Benefits of Beef Heart
Beef heart is one of the most nutrient-dense organ meats available. It’s an excellent source of:
- Iron and Zinc: Supports energy levels and immune health.
- CoQ10: A powerful antioxidant that promotes heart health and cellular energy.
- B Vitamins: Essential for energy metabolism and brain function.
Incorporating beef heart into your diet boosts your intake of essential nutrients while keeping meals low-carb and keto-friendly.
Zero-Carb, High-Protein Perfection
These meatballs are ideal for:
- Carnivore Diet: All-meat recipes like this are staples for anyone following a carnivore lifestyle.
- Keto Diet: With no added carbs, these meatballs keep you in ketosis while offering a protein-packed option.
More Carnivore Recipes
- Easy Carnivore Burgers
- One-Pan Beef and Liver Stir-Fry
- Slow-Cooked Oxtail Soup
- Carnivore Egg and Beef Scramble
Enjoy exploring these delicious and nutritious recipes!
I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me.
Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the Carnivore Meatballs with Beef Heart recipe—they’ll thank you for it! 🥚✨
Nutrient-Packed Thanksgiving Carnivore Meatballs with Beef Heart
Description
Delicious Carnivore Meatballs with Beef Heart blend ground beef and nutrient-rich beef heart for a protein-packed, low-carb, zero-carb meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
Combine the Meats:
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground beef heart. Mix gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Shape the Meatballs:
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Scoop about 2 ounces of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Bake:
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Arrange the meatballs in a glass baking dish, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serve:
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Remove from the oven and spoon the natural juices over the meatballs before serving.
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 150kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Protein 18g36%
- Iron 20 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
When I first experimented with these Carnivore Meatballs with Beef Heart, I wasn’t sure how they’d go over with my family. Organ meats can be a tough sell, even for adventurous eaters like my husband—and don’t even get me started on my kids! But the moment I served these tender, flavorful meatballs at dinner, they were an instant hit. Plates were cleaned before I could even mention the “beef heart” part of the recipe! Now, these meatballs are a regular request in our house, and I love knowing I’m feeding my family something that’s both delicious and deeply nourishing.
