Why Make This Irresistible Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole – Cheesy Low-Carb Comfort Food
When craving a hearty dish that won’t derail your keto diet, the Irresistible Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole steps in as the perfect answer. This delightful casserole combines the comfort of classic meatballs with the rich, gooey goodness of cheese, offering all the flavor without the carbs. With a blend of savory herbs, ground meat, and a simple low-carb sauce, it’s a satisfying meal you can whip up for the family or serve at gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some protein and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
How to Make Irresistible Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole – Cheesy Low-Carb Comfort Food
Creating this mouthwatering casserole is simpler than you might think! You’ll need just a handful of ingredients and some straightforward steps to bring this dish to life. Not only will you enjoy the process, but the aroma of meatballs baking in the oven will make your kitchen a homely haven. This dish is great for meal prep, and the leftovers are just as tasty — if you have any!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground turkey (or ground beef or pork)
- 1 egg
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup low-carb tomato sauce (no added sugar)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Set your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easy.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey (or beef/pork), egg, ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Stir until everything is just combined — be careful not to overmix!
- Form small meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes until they are cooked through and golden.
- Once baked, transfer the meatballs to a casserole dish. Pour the low-carb tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle on the remaining mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a perfectly golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/6 of casserole):
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 35g
How to Serve Irresistible Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole – Cheesy Low-Carb Comfort Food
This casserole is delicious on its own or served with a side of zoodles (zucchini noodles) or a fresh green salad to add some crunch. It makes a fantastic weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. You can also serve it in smaller portions as a tasty appetizer at parties or gatherings.
How to Store Irresistible Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole – Cheesy Low-Carb Comfort Food
If you have any leftovers (which might be hard to manage!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months — just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Irresistible Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole – Cheesy Low-Carb Comfort Food
- Using lean ground meat like turkey keeps the calorie count low. However, feel free to switch to beef or pork for a richer flavor.
- Don’t skip the broiling step; this step adds a lovely finish to the cheese and enhances the presentation.
- For added flavor, try incorporating chopped fresh herbs or a dash of red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the casserole for extra nutrients.
Delicious Variations
- Cheesy Veggie Casserole: Add your favorite chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.
- Spicy Meatballs: Mix in some crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
- Different Sauces: Switch up the sauce by using pesto or a homemade marinara for varied flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground beef, pork, or even chicken can be used instead of turkey. Adjust cooking times if necessary, especially for fat content.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then assemble the casserole when ready to bake.
3. Is this meal suitable for freezing?
Yes! This casserole freezes beautifully. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container, and reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
The Irresistible Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole is a delightful combination of flavor and comfort that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. It’s easy to make and guarantees satisfaction in every bite — cheesy, meaty, and utterly delicious. So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, and unleash your inner chef! We’d love to hear how your casserole turns out, so don’t forget to leave a comment and share your experience!