Welcome to a culinary journey that combines health with indulgence—the best Keto Meatball Casserole you’ve ever tasted! For those following a low-carb lifestyle, this dish is nothing short of spectacular. Combining the rich flavors of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce, this casserole makes every meal feel special. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners! The Keto Meatball Casserole is not just another recipe; it’s a game-changer in the world of ketogenic diets.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Meatball Casserole
- Perfect for Low-Carb Diets: Keeps you on track with your keto goals.
- Easy to Prepare: Only takes 15 minutes of prep time.
- Family Favorite: Loved by both adults and kids.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
- 30-Minute Cook Time: The best way to enjoy a quick and delicious keto meal at home.
Ingredients for Keto Meatball Casserole
Essential Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose grass-fed for extra health benefits.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a delightful topping.
- 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce: Look for brands with no added sugar.
- 1 large egg: Binds the meatballs together.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that classic Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the taste profile.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: The quintessential spice blend for authenticity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and elevates flavors.
Dietary Swaps
- For a dairy-free option, replace cheese with nutritional yeast or cashew cream.
- Vegetarian modification: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh instead of ground beef.
How to Make Keto Meatball Casserole – Step by Step
How to Prepare the Meatballs
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assembling the Casserole
- Step 3: Form the meat mixture into 12 meatballs and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Step 4: Pour the low-carb marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce and meatballs.
Baking Instructions
- Step 6: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Step 7: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Final Steps
- Step 9: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Keto Meatball Casserole!
Best Keto Meatball Casserole Recipe – Easy and Delicious
Pro Tips for Making the Best Keto Meatball Casserole
- Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before baking.
- Cheese Lovers: Add an extra ½ cup of mozzarella for an ultra-cheesy experience.
- Secrets for Flavor: Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano for an aromatic touch.
- Can I make Keto Meatball Casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day for convenient meal prep.
- What is the secret to the best Keto Meatball Casserole? It’s all about the seasoning. Don’t skip the Italian seasoning—it ties all the flavors together.
Best Ways to Serve Keto Meatball Casserole
- Pair with a Side Salad: Try a crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Keto Garlic Bread: Complements the casserole beautifully and stays low-carb.
- Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles): A great pasta alternative that keeps you in ketosis.
Nutritional Information for Keto Meatball Casserole
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
- Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
This dish is a fantastic low-carb meal option, perfect for those on ketogenic diets, providing a nutritional balance that satisfies.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Ensure the casserole is fully cooled, then freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until hot or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for best results.
4 FAQs for Keto Meatball Casserole
- Can I freeze Keto Meatball Casserole? Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- What can I use instead of ricotta cheese in Keto Meatball Casserole? Cottage cheese or mascarpone are excellent substitutes.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole? Swap the ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh.
- Can I use turkey instead of beef? Absolutely, ground turkey works well for a lighter alternative.
Related Recipes for Keto Meatball Casserole
Keto Meatball Casserole
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Keto
Description
A delicious and low-carb casserole featuring savory meatballs and melted cheese, perfect for a keto diet.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, almond flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
- In a casserole dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Place the browned meatballs on top of the marinara sauce in an even layer.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the casserole
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 18
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 100
Keywords: Keto, Meatball, Casserole, Low Carb, Comfort Food