Elevate your meatball game with these Low Carb Dijon Meatballs. Bursting with flavor from Dijon mustard and fresh herbs, these meatballs are perfect for a cozy dinner or a party appetizer. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these delectable meatballs.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork, if desired)
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, egg, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into meatballs of your desired size. Roll them gently between your palms to ensure they hold together.
- Make the Dijon Coating:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and olive oil until well combined.
- Coat the Meatballs:
- Dip each meatball into the Dijon mustard mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake the Meatballs:
- Place the coated meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each meatball.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to substitute Parmesan cheese with another hard cheese such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Meat Choices: Experiment with different meat combinations like ground turkey or chicken for variety.
- Serving Suggestions: These meatballs are versatile and can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as appetizers with toothpicks for dipping.
Keto-Friendly Considerations:
- Almond Flour: Almond flour adds a low-carb binding agent to the meatballs while providing healthy fats and fiber.
- Nutritional Values: These meatballs are low in carbs and high in protein, making them suitable for keto and low-carb diets.
- Healthy Fats: The olive oil in the Dijon mustard coating adds healthy fats to the dish, making it satiating and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and shape the meatballs in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if baking them from chilled.
Q: Can I freeze these meatballs? A: Absolutely! These meatballs freeze well. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of mustard? A: While Dijon mustard adds a unique flavor to these meatballs, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard for a different taste profile.
Q: What can I serve with these meatballs? A: These meatballs pair well with a variety of sides such as cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
Q: Can I cook these meatballs in a skillet instead of baking them? A: Yes, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown on all sides, then finish cooking them in the oven or simmer them in a sauce.
Q: Can I omit the almond flour? A: The almond flour helps bind the meatballs and adds moisture. However, if you prefer, you can omit it, though the texture may be slightly different.
These Low Carb Dijon Meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic dish, offering bold flavors and a satisfying meal option for any occasion. Whether served as a main course or as appetizers, these meatballs are sure to impress with their simplicity and taste. Enjoy the combination of juicy meat, savory Parmesan cheese, and tangy Dijon mustard in every bite!
