Description
Keto Garlic Butter Meatballs are a rich, flavorful, and low-carb holiday dish perfect for Christmas and Thanksgiving. Juicy meatballs simmered in a garlicky butter sauce make the perfect keto-friendly appetizer or main course. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, oregano, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Roll the mixture into evenly-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil.
- Sear the meatballs in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add butter.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and coat them in the sauce.
- Cover and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F).
- Stir in fresh parsley and optional lemon juice before serving.
Notes
- Cheese-Stuffed: Add a small cube of mozzarella inside each meatball for a gooey center.
- Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
- Chicken or Turkey Alternative: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and omit Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Keywords: keto meatballs, garlic butter meatballs, low-carb meatballs, holiday keto recipes, Christmas appetizers