Keto Swedish Meatballs: Low-Carb Comfort Food Recipe
Hey there, food lovers! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s close to my heart—Keto Swedish Meatballs. If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, you know how challenging it can be to find comfort food that fits your lifestyle.
Well, these Swedish meatballs are here to save the day! They’re creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, all while being completely keto-friendly.
Whether you’re craving something cozy for dinner or need a dish to impress your friends, these meatballs are the perfect choice. Let’s dive into this delicious, low-carb comfort food recipe!
What’s in These Keto Swedish Meatballs?
Swedish meatballs are traditionally made with a mix of ground meats, breadcrumbs, and a creamy gravy. But for this keto version, we’re swapping out the breadcrumbs for low-carb alternatives and using a rich, creamy sauce that’s thickened without flour.
The result? Tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a velvety gravy that’s just as comforting as the classic version—but without the carbs. These meatballs are perfect for anyone following a keto diet or just looking for a healthier twist on a beloved dish.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious Keto Swedish Meatballs:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (I use 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1/2 pound ground pork (you can use all beef if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup almond flour (this replaces breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium is best)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (check for no added sugar)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
How to Make Keto Swedish Meatballs
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to make the most delicious keto Swedish meatballs:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Use your hands to mix everything until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs—about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re browned and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds so much flavor to the gravy! Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine the Meatballs and Gravy
Return the meatballs to the skillet and stir them gently to coat them in the gravy. Let them simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the meatballs with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 35 minutes
Serving
This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on how many meatballs you eat per person. They’re perfect as a main dish served over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or even mashed cauliflower. You can also serve them as an appetizer or party snack—just stick toothpicks in them for easy grabbing!
Calories
Here’s a rough estimate of the calories and macros per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: About 450-500 calories per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 4g (net carbs)
- Fiber: 1g
This dish is high in protein and healthy fats, making it perfect for a keto or low-carb diet. Plus, it’s so satisfying that you won’t even miss the carbs!
Tips and Tricks
- Use a mix of meats: The combination of beef and pork gives these meatballs amazing flavor and texture. If you don’t have pork, you can use all beef or even ground turkey.
- Make them ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. You can also freeze them raw or cooked for later use.
- Adjust the spices: If you’re not a fan of all spices or nutmeg, you can reduce the amount or leave them out. The meatballs will still be delicious!
- Double the gravy: If you love extra sauce, double the gravy ingredients. It’s so good, that you’ll want to pour it over everything!
Why I Love This Recipe
I love these Keto Swedish Meatballs because they’re the ultimate comfort food without the guilt. They’re rich, creamy, and full of flavor, but they fit perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Plus, they’re so easy to make! Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, these meatballs are sure to impress. They’re a reminder that you don’t have to give up your favorite foods to stay healthy—you just have to get a little creative.
So, give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! It’s a dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy!
