Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

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Sink your fork into these rich, savory Keto Italian Meatballs smothered in a vibrant homemade marinara sauce. They’re perfectly juicy on the inside with a golden crust outside, delivering bold Italian flavor in every bite—all while staying low in carbs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a table full of guests, these meatballs are a simple yet impressive keto-friendly comfort food.

What makes these meatballs irresistible is the balance of high-quality ground beef, Italian herbs, and a cheesy, garlicky richness that satisfies without any breadcrumbs. Simmered in a no-sugar-added marinara sauce, this dish is wholesome, nourishing, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

This recipe is the best of both worlds: deeply flavorful and keto-compliant. You get all the traditional comfort of meatballs and sauce, without the carb-heavy fillers. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to serve at a dinner party. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

Opt for ground beef that’s around 80/20 for the best blend of flavor and moisture. Leaner cuts tend to dry out during cooking, while higher fat keeps the meatballs tender and juicy. You can also blend in some ground pork or Italian sausage if you’re looking to level up the savory richness.

Ingredients for the Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

These keto meatballs are made with clean, simple ingredients that bring out authentic Italian taste while keeping your carb count low.

Ground beef gives the meatballs their hearty texture and satisfying richness.

Almond flour replaces breadcrumbs and keeps the mixture keto while still binding it well.

Grated Parmesan cheese adds nutty depth and helps keep the meatballs tender.

Egg works as a natural binder to hold everything together.

Garlic fresh minced garlic brings an irresistible aroma and flavor.

Italian seasoning infuses classic Mediterranean herbs that make every bite pop.

Salt and pepper enhance and balance the flavors of the dish.

Olive oil is used to sear the meatballs for a golden, flavorful crust.

Sugar-free marinara sauce brings a tangy, robust tomato base without added sugars.

How To Make the Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs. You should get about 16 to 18 meatballs, depending on size.

Step 3: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, searing until browned on all sides. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes total per batch. Transfer to a plate.

Step 4: Simmer in Marinara

Pour your marinara sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Nestle the seared meatballs into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low for about 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. They’re delicious as-is, or served over zucchini noodles or a bed of sauteed spinach.

How to Serve and Store Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

These meatballs are best served piping hot right from the skillet. They pair beautifully with low-carb sides and taste incredible the next day, making them a perfect meal prep option. This recipe makes enough to feed 4 to 6 people depending on appetite and sides.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs (with or without the sauce) for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

What to Serve With Keto Italian Meatballs?

Zucchini Noodles

These are a light, refreshing stand-in for pasta and soak up all that marinara goodness.

Cauliflower Mash

Creamy and smooth, this makes a great base for soaking up the sauce.

Sauteed Spinach

A quick garlic-spinach saute adds a healthy green contrast.

Grilled Asparagus

Slightly charred and crisp, asparagus gives your meal a restaurant-style upgrade.

Keto Garlic Bread

Made with almond flour or cheese-based dough, it’s perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce.

Simple Side Salad

A fresh salad with olive oil and vinegar balances the richness of the meatballs.

Roasted Broccoli

Caramelized and crunchy, this is a great way to add texture to your plate.

Stuffed Mushrooms

If you’re entertaining, these bite-size apps pair beautifully with the main dish.

Want More Keto Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Keto Italian Meatballs, here are more flavorful keto recipes to try:

• Try our Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet for a cheesy, one-pan dinner.
• Warm up with the Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup that’s surprisingly low in carbs.
• For something lighter, check out our Low Carb Chicken Casserole that’s ideal for busy weeknights.
• These Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna rolls offer a decadent twist with keto-friendly swaps.
• Or indulge in Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri for a protein-packed dinner.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you swap in Italian sausage? Add extra herbs? Let me know how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and snacks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy low-carb dish.

Conclusion

Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce offer all the satisfaction of classic Italian comfort food without the carbs. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for any night of the week. With a few simple swaps, you can stay on track with your goals and still enjoy every bite.

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