Introduction

Immerse yourself in the flavors of Italy with this Keto Italian Meatball Zoodle Skillet. Combining tender, flavorful meatballs with zucchini noodles (zoodles) in a rich marinara sauce, this dish is a wholesome and satisfying option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Bursting with Mediterranean-inspired tastes and textures, this skillet meal offers a hearty yet nutritious alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, indulge in the comforting flavors of Italy with this easy-to-prepare recipe.

Ingredients

  • For the Meatballs:
    • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
    • 1/4 cup almond flour
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 large egg
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Zoodle Skillet:
    • 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)
    • 2 cups sugar-free marinara sauce
    • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
    • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Zoodles: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Remove excess moisture by patting the zoodles with a paper towel if necessary.
  4. Combine with Marinara Sauce: Pour sugar-free marinara sauce over the zoodles in the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  5. Add Meatballs and Cheese: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the zoodles and marinara sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
  6. Simmer: Cover the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatballs are heated through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, dividing into individual portions.

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the flavors of Italy with this Keto Italian Meatball Zoodle Skillet. Combining tender, flavorful meatballs with zucchini noodles (zoodles) in a rich marinara sauce, this dish is a wholesome and satisfying option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Bursting with Mediterranean-inspired tastes and textures, this skillet meal offers a hearty yet nutritious alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, indulge in the comforting flavors of Italy with this easy-to-prepare recipe.

Ingredients

  • For the Meatballs:
    • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
    • 1/4 cup almond flour
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 large egg
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Zoodle Skillet:
    • 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)
    • 2 cups sugar-free marinara sauce
    • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
    • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Zoodles: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Remove excess moisture by patting the zoodles with a paper towel if necessary.
  4. Combine with Marinara Sauce: Pour sugar-free marinara sauce over the zoodles in the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  5. Add Meatballs and Cheese: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the zoodles and marinara sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
  6. Simmer: Cover the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatballs are heated through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, dividing into individual portions.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 22g
    • Saturated Fat: 8g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3g
    • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 28g

WW SmartPoints

  • Each serving: 8 SmartPoints

Tips for Success

  • Zoodle Preparation: To prevent soggy zoodles, sauté them quickly over medium-high heat and remove excess moisture.
  • Meatball Variation: Substitute ground chicken or pork for variety in flavor.
  • Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or Italian blend for additional richness.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
  • Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet before serving.

Conclusion

This Keto Italian Meatball Zoodle Skillet is a celebration of Italian flavors combined with the health benefits of a low-carb lifestyle. With tender meatballs, zucchini noodles, and a savory marinara sauce topped with melted cheese, each bite offers a taste of comfort and satisfaction. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or a satisfying solo meal, this skillet dish is a perfect example of how keto-friendly meals can be both delicious and nutritious.

Embrace the ease of preparing a wholesome Italian-inspired meal that supports your dietary goals without sacrificing taste. Share the joy of homemade cooking with loved ones and savor the delicious flavors of this Keto Italian Meatball Zoodle Skillet. Make it a staple in your recipe collection and enjoy the hearty goodness it brings to your table.