There’s something so comforting about a hearty casserole, especially when it’s packed with delicious, meaty goodness. I remember the first time I made this Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole; my friends were over for movie night, and I wanted to whip up something that felt indulgent but stayed true to my low-carb lifestyle. Little did I know, I had stumbled upon a dish that would become an absolute favorite, not just for me but for anyone lucky enough to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s talk flavor and comfort! This dish marries the savory heartiness of ground beef and pork with the tang of marinara sauce, all topped with bubbling mozzarella cheese that practically sings “Italian cuisine!” What sets it apart? It’s a guilt-free indulgence; you can enjoy all the flavors you adore without straying from your keto commitments. The meatballs are coupled with a bonus layer of cheesy goodness that makes each bite delightfully satisfying.
And don’t get me started on how easy it is to prepare! You’ll be amazed at how something so scrumptious can be prepped in a flash. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, and the smells wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gravitating towards the oven, eagerly waiting to feast. Believe me, once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat!
Gather These Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering casserole, gather the following essentials:
- 1 pound ground beef – The backbone of the meatballs! Feel free to swap for turkey if you prefer a leaner option.
- 1 pound ground pork – It adds that extra juicy quality. If you want to lighten up the dish, you can use all beef or even chicken.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This gives a lovely, umami kick. You can mix it up with Romano if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (keto-friendly) – This gives the meatballs their structure without all the carbs. I love using almond flour for an extra nutty flavor!
- 1 large egg – The binder that keeps everything together. You can use a flax egg as a vegan alternative!
- 2 cups marinara sauce (low-carb) – Look for a no-added-sugar option—it’s a game changer. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, make your own!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Because we all know cheese makes everything better. You can mix it with provolone for a fun twist.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Instant flavor boost! Toasting it in a pan first elevates the flavor even more.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – A pantry staple that never disappoints.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t skimp on this; it’s essential for flavor.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional) – It adds a lovely fresh note if you have it on hand.
How This Recipe Comes Together
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled.
- Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Get your hands in there and mix until well combined, then form them into generous meatballs.
- Layer the dish: Start with a tasty layer by spreading marinara sauce across the bottom of your baking dish. Then nestle those meatballs right on top!
- Top it off: Pour the remaining marinara sauce generously over the meatballs. We want them cozy!
- Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top—don’t be shy!
- Bake to perfection: Pop it in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is all bubbly and golden.
- Garnish: If you have fresh basil, sprinkle it over the top just before serving—it makes it look so pretty!
Best Way to Enjoy It
This Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole is fantastic on its own, but to elevate your dining experience, consider serving it alongside a crisp, green salad to balance out the richness. Think a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the cheesy goodness. For something heartier, spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash can also make perfect companions, providing a deliciously healthy, low-carb alternative.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This casserole keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it cool before popping it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy more, you can reheat it in your oven at 350°F until warmed through, or throw it in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. If you want to freeze it, trust me—the taste holds up beautifully! Just wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months.
Pro Chef Tips
- Don’t rush the meatball mixing; the more you mix, the more tender the meatballs will be.
- Toasting the garlic powder and onion powder in the pan for a minute can deepen their flavors.
- For a little punch, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick!
Creative Twists
Want to mix it up? Try adding chopped spinach or grated zucchini to the meatball mixture for extra veggies—it’s a sneaky way to boost nutrition! Feeling adventurous? Substitute half the ground pork for Italian sausage for a flavor bomb.
The possibilities are endless, and playing with the ingredients can keep things exciting!
Your Questions Answered
- How long does prep take? About 15-20 minutes! The baking comes next.
- Can I use ready-made meatballs? Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and a flax egg for binding.
- How do I know when the meatballs are done? They should be at least 165°F internally—use a meat thermometer if you have one!
- What do you suggest for side dishes? A nice green salad or roasted cauliflower would complement the richness perfectly!
This casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors wrapped in a cozy embrace! Packed with protein and oozing with cheesy goodness, it’s sure to make a regular appearance at your table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to personalize it with your own special twists. So grab your apron, put on your favorite tunes, and let’s get cookin’—I can’t wait for you to join the Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole fan club!
Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole
Description
This Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole is a delicious low-carb dish that combines the savory goodness of meatballs with marinara sauce and bubbling mozzarella cheese.Main Ingredients
Meatballs and Sauce
Preparation Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs. -
Layer the Dish
Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish and place the meatballs on top. -
Add Marinara and Cheese
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.Be generous with the cheese. -
Bake
Place in the oven for 25-30 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and cheese is bubbly. -
Garnish and Serve
Optional: Sprinkle fresh basil over the top before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 400kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 120mg40%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Potassium 700mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 35g70%
- Vitamin A 10 IU
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 20 mg
- Iron 15 mg
- Vitamin D 0 IU
- Vitamin E 1 IU
- Vitamin K 5 mcg
- Thiamin 0.5 mg
- Riboflavin 0.3 mg
- Niacin 3 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.7 mg
- Folate 10 mcg
- Vitamin B12 5 mcg
- Biotin 0 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1 mg
- Phosphorus 400 mg
- Iodine 0 mcg
- Magnesium 20 mg
- Zinc 5 mg
- Selenium 25 mcg
- Copper 0.1 mg
- Manganese 0.2 mg
- Chromium 0 mcg
- Molybdenum 0 mcg
- Chloride 0 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.
