Posted by Jamie McGuire
on December 21, 2025
These meatballs are one of those recipes I can make on repeat, especially when I want something comforting, high protein, and versatile without overthinking dinner.
They’re keto-friendly (if you skip the pasta), made with simple, clean ingredients, and honestly just really good. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or stocking your freezer for those “what do I eat?” days.
Ingredients
+ 1 lb grass-fed ground beef
+ 1 egg
+ ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
+ ¼ cup finely diced onion
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ Splash of cream (optional, but makes them extra tender)
+ ½ tsp garlic powder
+ ½ tsp onion powder
+ 1 tsp Italian seasoning
+ Salt & pepper to taste
*To double the recipe, just double up on everything
How to Make Them
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Don’t overwork the meat, that’s how you keep them tender.
- Roll into golf ball size meatballs
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden.
*You can also pan-sear them first if you want a crispier outside, but adjust baking time to 15 mins if you are pan searing first
Sauce Options (I Switch This Up Every Time)
I almost never make these the same way twice.
My go-to favorites:
+ Rao’s Spicy Marinara
+ Rao’s Vodka Sauce
+ Or my favorite combo: half spicy marinara + half vodka sauce
These aren't organic pasta sauces, you can definitely use those instead. I just find the flavor of these ones to work really well with the meatballs. Not the best, but not bad as far as ingredients are concerned. Is the flavor worth it? In my opinion, yes.
Warm the sauce, add the meatballs, and let them simmer for 10 minutes so everything comes together.
How I Like to Eat Them
This is why I love this recipe — it works with whatever you’re craving.
-
On their own with an arugula salad and my famous dressing
→ Link to dressing recipe here - With spaghetti squash for a lighter, veggie-based option
- With brown rice pasta if you want something hearty but still balanced
-
With this sourdough pasta I’m obsessed with (it’s so good)
→ Link to pasta here
Meal Prep + Freezer Friendly
These meatballs are perfect for planning ahead.
- Make a double batch
- Store leftovers in the fridge for easy lunches
- Or freeze cooked meatballs in an airtight container for future meals
When you need them, just thaw, warm, add sauce, and dinner is done!
Why I Love This Recipe
✔ High protein
✔ Keto-friendly (no pasta)
✔ No breadcrumbs or fillers
✔ Easy to customize
✔ Great for leftovers + meal prep
It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent but still supports your health — and honestly, those are the best kinds.
xo,
Jamie