Craving a hearty, cheesy dish that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle? Look no further than this Low-Carb Meatball Parmesan Casserole. Packed with juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and a generous topping of melted cheese, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavor or health goals. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients List

Meatball Ingredients

• 680 g (1½ pounds) lean ground beef
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for keto)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons canola or vegetable oil (plus more for oiling hands)

Marinara Sauce and Cheese

• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or jarred; opt for low-sugar if keto)
• 200 g shredded mozzarella cheese (about 2 heaping cups)

Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed pork rinds for keto)
• ½ teaspoon each granulated garlic, oregano, and thyme
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this casserole seamlessly, you’ll need:

1. Mixing Bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients.
2. Baking Sheet: To bake the meatballs before assembling the casserole.
3. 9” x 12” Baking Dish: For layering and baking the casserole.
4. Medium Skillet: To prepare the breadcrumb topping.
5. Foil Paper: To cover the casserole during baking.

Having these tools ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Preparation Steps

Making the Meatballs

The foundation of this Low-Carb Meatball Parmesan Casserole lies in perfectly seasoned meatballs. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and drizzle it with 2 teaspoons of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for keto), salt, pepper, oregano, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking and shape the mixture into 24 evenly sized meatballs, about 2½ tablespoons each. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 14–16 minutes until browned and cooked through. Once done, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the casserole assembly.

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Assembling the Casserole

Now that your meatballs are ready, it’s time to assemble this cheesy masterpiece:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread 2 cups of marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought) evenly across the bottom of a 9” x 12” baking dish. Add ¼ cup of water to thin out the sauce slightly.
2. Nestle the Meatballs: Arrange the baked meatballs in a single layer on top of the marinara sauce.
3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the meatballs. Cover lightly with foil to prevent excessive browning during baking.
4. Bake Again: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly. Remove the foil and switch on the broiler for 1–2 minutes to achieve a golden-brown cheese topping.

Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping and Final Touches

Preparing the Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping

The breadcrumb topping is what elevates this Low-Carb Meatball Parmesan Casserole to the next level, adding a savory crunch to each bite. Follow these simple steps:

1. Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, combine ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs (or crushed pork rinds for keto), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon each of granulated garlic, oregano, and thyme. Stir the mixture until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened.
2. Cook Until Golden: Continue stirring the breadcrumbs until they turn a golden-brown color, releasing a nutty aroma. This should take about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add Cheese and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. The cheese will melt slightly, binding the breadcrumbs together for a flavorful topping.

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Assembling the Final Dish

1. Sprinkle the Topping: Once your casserole is out of the oven, evenly sprinkle the prepared Parmesan breadcrumb topping across the surface. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese and tender meatballs.
2. Serve Hot: For the best cheese pull and maximum flavor, serve the casserole straight out of the oven while it’s still hot and bubbly.

FAQs About Low-Carb Meatball Parmesan Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

2. What are some low-carb substitutes for breadcrumbs?
If you’re following a strict low-carb diet, replace panko breadcrumbs with almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or even grated Parmesan cheese for binding the meatballs.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a mix of these for a different flavor profile.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole without baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

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Conclusion

This Low-Carb Meatball Parmesan Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of rich flavors and comforting textures that align perfectly with your low-carb lifestyle. From the juicy meatballs to the gooey mozzarella and crunchy breadcrumb topping, every bite is packed with satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for yourself, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Remember, the key to nailing this dish lies in using fresh ingredients and layering flavors thoughtfully. Don’t skip the Parmesan breadcrumb topping—it’s the crowning glory that ties everything together! Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

So go ahead—gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to this wholesome, cheesy delight. Your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you!