These rich and tender meatballs are coated in a velvety, creamy sauce, making them the perfect low-carb, high-protein meal. Made with a flavorful blend of ground beef and pork, these meatballs are baked until golden brown and then smothered in a savory Parmesan cream sauce.

Whether you’re following a keto, carnivore, or low-carb diet, these meatballs are a must-try. They are gluten-free, grain-free, and incredibly satisfying, making them a fantastic main course for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Carnivore & Keto-Friendly – No fillers, just meat, eggs, cheese, and cream.
• Rich & Creamy – A luscious Parmesan sauce enhances the flavor.
• Easy to Make – Minimal ingredients with simple baking and simmering steps.
• Versatile – Enjoy them alone or with keto-friendly sides like roasted veggies.

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Part 1: Making Carnivore Creamy Meatballs

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start, gather the right tools to make cooking smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools & Equipment

• Mixing bowls – For combining the meatball mixture.
• Baking dish (10×13-inch) – To bake the meatballs evenly.
• Skillet or saucepan – For preparing the creamy sauce.
• Tongs – For flipping or transferring the meatballs.

Preparation Tips

• Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
• Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
• Make uniform-sized meatballs for even cooking.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for the best texture.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Coating

• 1 cup pork rind crumbs

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Optional: Fresh basil, for garnish

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Grease a 10×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.

2. Make the Meatballs

• In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, egg, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Gently mix until well combined.
• Roll the mixture into small, evenly-sized meatballs.

3. Coat the Meatballs

• Roll each meatball in pork rind crumbs for a crispy exterior.
• Arrange them in the greased baking dish.

4. Bake the Meatballs

• Place the dish in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and set aside.

5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

• In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
• Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
• Let the sauce simmer until thickened.
• Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth.

6. Combine & Serve

• Add the baked meatballs to the skillet.
• Coat them evenly in the creamy sauce.
• Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Serving Suggestions

These carnivore creamy meatballs are rich, flavorful, and satisfying on their own. However, they also pair well with low-carb side dishes for a complete meal.

Best Side Dishes

1. Roasted Asparagus – A light, crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Absorbs the sauce beautifully while adding a nutritious element.
3. Zucchini Noodles – A keto-friendly alternative to pasta that works well with creamy sauces.
4. Cauliflower Mash – A buttery and creamy side that complements the meatballs.
5. Sautéed Mushrooms – Earthy and rich, adding depth to the meal.
6. Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts – A smoky, crispy side that enhances the dish.
7. Keto Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce while staying low-carb.
8. Crispy Parmesan Chips – Adds a satisfying crunch to contrast the creamy texture.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Meat

Overmixing the meatball mixture can make them tough instead of tender. Mix just until combined for the best texture.

2. Skipping the Coating

The pork rind crumbs add a crispy exterior that enhances the dish. Skipping this step can result in a softer, less textured meatball.

3. Cooking at Too High a Temperature

Baking the meatballs at an excessively high temperature can cause them to dry out. Stick to 400°F (200°C) for the perfect balance of browning and moisture retention.

4. Not Letting the Sauce Thicken

Simmering the sauce long enough to reduce and thicken is key to achieving the right consistency. Rushing this step may result in a watery sauce.

5. Using Too Much Parmesan in the Sauce

While Parmesan is a great thickener, adding too much can make the sauce overly salty. Taste and adjust gradually.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep the sauce separate if possible to prevent the meatballs from becoming too soft.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze them without the sauce and prepare the sauce fresh when reheating.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Heat the meatballs in a skillet over low heat with a bit of cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
• Microwave: Place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Alternatively, bake them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer, then reheat with fresh sauce when ready to serve.

2. Can I use only beef or pork instead of a mix?

Yes, you can use either all beef or all pork. However, the combination of both meats gives the best flavor and texture.

3. Are these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, this recipe uses pork rind crumbs, making it completely gluten-free.

4. Can I substitute ricotta cheese?

Yes. If you do not have ricotta cheese, you can use cream cheese or mascarpone as a substitute. Both will maintain the creamy texture of the meatballs.

5. How do I thicken the sauce without adding flour?

Simmering the sauce longer helps it reduce and thicken naturally. Adding extra Parmesan cheese can also enhance thickness without needing flour or starch.

6. Can I add other seasonings to the meatballs?

Yes. While the recipe keeps it simple with Italian seasoning and garlic powder, you can customize it with spices like smoked paprika, onion powder, or red pepper flakes for additional depth.

7. What other cheeses can I use in the sauce?

You can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Gruyère for a slightly different flavor profile.

8. What is the best way to keep the meatballs moist?

The ricotta cheese helps keep them tender, but avoiding overcooking is key. Baking at the right temperature and reheating gently will also help retain moisture.

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Conclusion

Carnivore creamy meatballs are the perfect low-carb, high-protein meal for those following a carnivore or keto diet. Their crispy exterior, tender center, and rich Parmesan cream sauce make them an indulgent yet simple dish that can be prepared in under an hour.

With easy preparation, versatile serving options, and simple storage, these meatballs are great for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Try them today and enjoy a satisfying, protein-packed dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.

Let me know if you need any adjustments or additions.