Name: Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef and pork blend 2 eggs 1 cup grated parmesan cheese 1⁄3 cup almond flour 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon salt 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing) 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes (no sugar added) 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce) 1⁄2 teaspoon salt (for sauce) 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce) 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for sauce) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley Extra parmesan for topping

Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, these Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce are the ultimate comfort food that fits your low-carb lifestyle. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a hearty dinner on a cozy night in, these meatballs deliver all the Italian goodness without the guilt. No breadcrumbs, no sugar-laden sauces—just rich, herby flavor and satisfying textures.

Simmered in a luscious homemade marinara and topped with a sprinkle of parmesan, they’re perfect over zoodles, cauliflower mash, or even on their own. These meatballs also freeze beautifully, so you can make a big batch and always have a keto-friendly option ready to go.

What Kind of Ground Meat Works Best for Keto Meatballs?

While traditional Italian meatballs use a mix of ground beef and pork, you can absolutely tailor this to your preference. Ground beef is rich and hearty, but adding ground pork makes the meatballs juicier and more tender. If you prefer a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken—just note they may need extra fat (like olive oil or grated cheese) to stay moist.

Ingredients for the Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

Ground Beef & Pork: These provide a juicy, flavorful base. Using both adds richness and a nice balance of fat.

Eggs: Help bind everything together so the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.

Parmesan Cheese: Not only adds saltiness and umami but also works as a keto-friendly breadcrumb alternative.

Garlic & Onion Powder: Give the meatballs that deep, savory Italian flavor without the carbs of fresh onion.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds that signature Italian flair.

Almond Flour: A perfect low-carb substitute for breadcrumbs that keeps the texture light.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

Crushed Tomatoes & Tomato Paste: These make up the base of the marinara sauce. Choose unsweetened varieties to keep it keto.

Olive Oil: Used for cooking the sauce and helping the meatballs brown.

Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish and a pop of freshness to finish.

How To Make the Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and ground pork. Add in the eggs, grated parmesan cheese, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands to mix until everything is just combined—don’t overwork the mixture or the meatballs can become dense.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a tray. You should get around 18–20 meatballs depending on size.

Step 3: Sear the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil. Sear the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point—just nicely browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Marinara Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Stir in tomato paste and let it cook for a minute to caramelize slightly. Add crushed tomatoes, a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.

Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs

Return the seared meatballs to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Cover and let simmer for 15–20 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh chopped basil or parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store Keto Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

These keto meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can spoon them over spiralized zucchini noodles or roasted spaghetti squash for a cozy, pasta-style dinner. Cauliflower mash is another comforting option that pairs well with the rich marinara. For a lighter meal, serve them on a bed of fresh greens with a drizzle of the warm sauce as a dressing.

If you’re meal prepping, these meatballs are a dream. They keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Want to freeze them? Let them cool completely and freeze in portions with sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat for a quick keto-friendly meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep keto meatballs from falling apart?

The combination of eggs and almond flour helps hold them together. Don’t skip the parmesan either—it acts like a glue while adding flavor.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-searing?

Yes! Bake them at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes until browned. You can then simmer them in the sauce to finish cooking and infuse flavor.

Is store-bought marinara sauce keto?

Some are, but many contain added sugars. Always read the label or make your own with no-sugar-added crushed tomatoes and herbs.

What can I use instead of almond flour?

Finely ground pork rinds or coconut flour can work as a binder, but start with a smaller amount if using coconut flour, as it absorbs more moisture.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

If they’re homemade and already cooked, yes! Just simmer them straight from frozen in the sauce until heated through. If they’re raw, thaw first and then cook as directed.

Are these meatballs good for meal prep?

Absolutely. They’re one of the easiest and most satisfying make-ahead meals—perfect for freezing or storing in the fridge for fast, flavorful dinners.

Want More Keto Dinner Ideas?

If these saucy, cheesy Keto Italian Meatballs have you craving more low-carb comfort food, check out these other delicious options to keep your keto journey flavorful and exciting:

Try the Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet for a one-pan dinner that’s rich in healthy fats and packed with flavor. lifewithjam.com/keto-hamburger-and-broccoli-skillet
Craving something creamy and bold? The Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo is hearty and has just the right kick. lifewithjam.com/creamy-cajun-steak-alfredo-recipe
For a cozy low-carb twist on a classic, the One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta hits the spot. lifewithjam.com/one-pot-creamy-beef-and-garlic-butter-pasta
Don’t miss the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a comfort-filled pasta alternative. lifewithjam.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-tortellini-with-sausage-and-broccoli
Keep it fresh with the Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce for an easy, elegant protein dish. lifewithjam.com/pan-fried-salmon-with-garlic-butter-sauce