Keto Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Calendar icon Published: Jan 15th 2022 by Chigoziri Nwachuku
Clock icon Last updated: Dec 20th 2024
Read time: 5 mins
Cuisine:
This recipe, developed through the collective effort of at least 6 experts, underwent meticulous research and testing for over 3 months. Learn more about our process in the art and science behind our recipes or read how we use AI responsibly. This post may contain affiliate links. Read our Disclosure Policy.
Front shot of Keto Swedish Meatballs in a skillet with wooden spatula on the side

Relish the comforting flavors of this Keto Swedish Meatballs Recipe, a low-carb twist on the classic dish. Perfectly seasoned with allspice and smothered in a creamy, rich gravy, these juicy meatballs deliver all the satisfaction of traditional Swedish meatballs without the carbs. Whether you're following a keto lifestyle or just looking for a hearty meal, this recipe is a winner!

  • Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Contains less than 4g net carbs per serving.
  • Packed with Flavor: Warm spices and creamy gravy make every bite irresistible.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes for a hassle-free meal.
  • Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.

  • Consistent Meatballs: Use a small ice cream scoop to ensure evenly sized meatballs for uniform cooking.
  • Prevent Sticky Hands: Lightly oil your hands when forming the meatballs.
  • Gravy Perfection: Simmer the sauce gently to avoid curdling the cream.

  • Pair with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.
  • Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks for dipping into the creamy gravy.
  • Add a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

  • Replace beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Swap almond flour with crushed pork rinds for added flavor and texture.

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze meatballs and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

For the Meatballs:

  • Ground Beef: Provides the base for tender, juicy meatballs.
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • Almond Flour: Acts as a keto-friendly binder.
  • Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Spices (Allspice, Garlic Powder, Rosemary): Infuse warmth and depth of flavor.


For the Cream Sauce:

  • Beef Stock: Forms the savory base of the gravy.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess.
  • Dijon Mustard: Provides a subtle tang.
  • Salt & Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor.
  • Parsley (optional): Fresh garnish for a pop of color.

Can you bind meatballs with almond flour?

You sure can! Almond flour works well as a binder, and the almond flour doesn't leave an almond "taste."

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for keto meatballs?

There are so many low-carb options for breadcrumbs. These include almond flour, ground pork rinds, keto bread crumbs, crushed nuts, and psyllium husk.

What's the difference between meatballs and Swedish meatballs?

There are a couple of differences between meatballs, aka Italian meatballs, and Swedish meatballs. For starters, Swedish meatballs tend to be smaller than Italian meatballs. Also, Swedish meatballs use warm spices like nutmeg and allspice, while Italian meatballs use garlic and Parmesan. Finally, Swedish meatballs tend to be served in a creamy gravy made with sour cream or heavy cream and beef broth, while Italian meatballs tend to be served with marinara sauce.

Can you eat Swedish meatballs on keto?

You can't eat your classic Swedish meatballs on keto. That's because traditional Swedish meatballs contain breadcrumbs and gravy thickened with flour. However, you can make Swedish meatballs keto-friendly with a few little tweaks.

Can I make these meatballs in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes, bake the meatballs on a greased baking sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, then add to the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Simmer the sauce gently over low heat and avoid bringing it to a rolling boil.

How to Make Keto Swedish Meatballs

Start by preparing the meatball mixture. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, almond flour, egg, and spices. Form the mixture into 20 evenly sized meatballs. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, prepare the creamy sauce by whisking together beef stock, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Simmer the mixture until thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite keto sides.

Rate
Average: 5 (8 votes)
Total rating includes sum of all comments and anonymous votes.

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Time & Serves

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins
Serves
5 persons.

Ingredients

For Meatballs
  • 1 pound Ground Beef

  • 1 Onion, minced

  • 1/4 cup Almond Flour

  • 1 Egg

  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon All Spice

  • 1/4 teaspoon Rosemary

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil

For Cream Sauce
  • 1 cup Beef Stock

  • 3/4 cup Heavy Cream

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard

  • Salt & Pepper to taste

  • Chopped Parsley or other Fresh Herbs for garnish (Optional)

Instructions

Mix well in a large bowl, add ground beef, onion, almond flour, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, spice, and rosemary.

Using the ground beef mixture, form 20 small meatballs.

Then, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.

Add meatballs once the oil is hot, turning every few minutes until brown and cooked through. Then transfer to a plate and cover with aluminum foil.

Add beef stock and heavy cream to the skillet over medium-high heat. Whisk well.

Add Dijon mustard and bring to a simmer. Simmer until sauce thickens.

Once the sauce has thickened, add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.

Add meatballs and simmer for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley.  Serve with cauliflower mash.

Chigoziri Nwachuku
Author:
Nutritional Recipe Writer

More posts by Chigoziri Nwachuku

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