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These baked meatballs are quick to make, require no breadcrumbs, and are both low-carb and gluten-free. They make a fantastic weeknight dinner option with minimal effort. Plus, they pair wonderfully with an easy-to-make sauce. Baking the meatballs offers a hands-free cooking method, allowing you to prepare other dishes while they cook.
Ingredients for meatballs without breadcrumbs
For the Meatballs:
- lean ground beef (85% lean)
- kosher salt
- black pepper
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- finely grated Parmesan cheese
For the Sauce:
- unsweetened ketchup
- maple syrup (or sugar-free alternative)
- reduced sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free alternative)
- garlic powder
- cayenne pepper
Instructions






Variations
- Alternative meats: Use ground chicken, pork, or turkey instead of beef.
- Different seasonings: Try adding paprika or thyme for extra flavor.
- Dairy-free alternative: Substitute almond flour for Parmesan cheese.
Expert Advice
- Avoid using extra-lean beef to prevent dry meatballs.
- Do not overcook to maintain juiciness.
- This recipe can be doubled for meal prep or serving a larger group.
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Frequently Asked Questions about meatballs without breadcrumbs
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? Parmesan cheese or almond flour work as great substitutes.
- Will the meatballs fall apart without breadcrumbs? No, the combination of cheese and seasonings helps them hold together.
- Why bake instead of pan-fry? Oven baking is hands-free and ensures even cooking.
- Is the sauce necessary? No, but it enhances the flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over cauliflower rice, mashed cauliflower, or zucchini noodles.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freeze: Meatballs can be frozen for up to three months.
- Cold Serving Option: These meatballs can also be enjoyed cold as a snack or in a salad.
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meatballs without breadcrumbs
These baked meatballs are quick to make, require no breadcrumbs, and are both low-carb and gluten-free. They make a fantastic weeknight dinner option with minimal effort. Plus, they pair wonderfully with an easy-to-make sauce. Baking the meatballs offers a hands-free cooking method, allowing you to prepare other dishes while they cook.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened ketchup
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or sugar-free alternative)
- 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese.
- Shape: Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, gently heat all sauce ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Combine: Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the saucepan and mix until evenly coated.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with your preferred side dish.
Notes
- Avoid using extra-lean beef to prevent dry meatballs.
- Do not overcook to maintain juiciness.
- This recipe can be doubled for meal prep or serving a larger group.
- The sauce is optional but enhances the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Sugar: ~3g
- Sodium: ~450mg
- Fat: ~14g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~7g
- Trans Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~5g5g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Protein: ~18g
- Cholesterol: ~60mg