15 Easy Low Carb Ricotta Meatballs Recipe Ideas

Low Carb Ricotta Meatballs Recipe Ideas are a perfect way to enjoy a delicious, protein-packed meal while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. Ricotta meatballs are a popular choice for low-carb diets because they offer the perfect balance of rich flavor, satisfying texture, and versatility. With their creamy ricotta base, these meatballs are a delicious alternative to traditional versions, offering both comfort and simplicity while keeping carbs low.

Whether you’re meal prepping, entertaining guests, or just seeking a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, ricotta meatballs are versatile enough to be paired with a variety of sauces, sides, and flavors.

Low Carb Ricotta Meatballs Recipe Ideas

1. Classic Ricotta Meatballs in Marinara

Enjoy the comforting flavors of traditional Italian with these Classic Ricotta Meatballs in Marinara. They are tender, flavorful, and simple to prepare — perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef (or use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour (for a low-carb breadcrumb substitute)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 1 1/2 cups low-carb marinara sauce (no added sugar)
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until just combined (don’t overmix to ensure tender meatballs).
3. Form meatballs:
   • Scoop out 1 1/2-inch portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs.
4. Bake the meatballs:
   • Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
5. Prepare the marinara sauce:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add garlic powder and low-carb marinara sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine and serve:
   • Add baked meatballs to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the meatballs are fully coated and the flavors meld together.
7. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 6g

2. Italian Herb and Garlic Ricotta Meatballs

These Italian Herb and Garlic Ricotta Meatballs are bursting with flavor thanks to a fragrant mix of herbs and savory garlic. Perfectly tender and easy to make, they’re ideal for anyone craving a classic Italian-inspired low-carb dish.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 cup low-carb tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. Form meatballs:
   • Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.
5. Prepare the sauce:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and add garlic powder. Stir in the low-carb tomato sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine the meatballs and sauce:
   • Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the meatballs are coated and the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve warm and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 29g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 5g

3. Cheesy Stuffed Ricotta Meatballs

These Cheesy Stuffed Ricotta Meatballs are a fun and delicious twist on traditional meatballs. Bursting with gooey, melted mozzarella in the center, they’re a crowd-pleasing option that combines comfort food with a low-carb lifestyle.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Stuffed Cheese:
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing.
3. Stuff the meatballs:
   • Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place 1 tsp of shredded mozzarella in the center and fold the meat mixture around it, forming a ball to seal the cheese inside.
4. Place on a baking sheet:
   • Arrange the stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake the meatballs:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and fully cooked through.
6. Prepare the sauce:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and stir in the low-carb marinara sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Combine and serve:
   • Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until fully coated and heated through.
8. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a bit of grated Parmesan if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 6g

4. Spicy Ricotta Meatballs with Jalapeño

Add a bit of heat to your dinner with these Spicy Ricotta Meatballs with Jalapeño. The combination of spicy jalapeños, savory ricotta, and Italian-inspired flavors creates a bold, satisfying dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves a little spice in their life.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 fresh jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust based on spice preference)
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and finely chopped jalapeño.
   • Mix until well combined.
3. Form meatballs:
   • Scoop out 1 1/2-inch portions and roll them into meatballs. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.
5. Prepare the sauce:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and stir in the low-carb marinara sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine and serve:
   • Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes until fully coated and heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 370 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 5g

5. Lemon and Dill Turkey Ricotta Meatballs

These Lemon and Dill Turkey Ricotta Meatballs are a fresh, zesty, and flavorful addition to your low-carb meal rotation. The combination of lemon, dill, and ricotta offers a light, aromatic twist on traditional meatballs, perfect for pairing with zoodles or a crisp salad.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 cup low-carb lemon butter sauce or light cream sauce
  • 1 tsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, ricotta cheese, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, fresh dill, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until just combined.
3. Form meatballs:
   • Scoop out 1 1/2-inch portions and roll them into meatballs. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and fully cooked through.
5. Prepare the sauce:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and stir in the low-carb lemon butter sauce or light cream sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine and serve:
   • Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until fully coated and heated through.
7. Garnish with additional fresh dill and a sprinkle of lemon zest for added brightness before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 4g

6. Keto-Friendly Ricotta Meatballs in Alfredo Sauce

These Keto-Friendly Ricotta Meatballs in Alfredo Sauce are a creamy, decadent low-carb option perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings. With tender ricotta meatballs smothered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish is keto-approved, flavorful, and easy to make.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Alfredo Sauce:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing.
3. Form meatballs:
   • Scoop out 1 1/2-inch portions and roll them into meatballs. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.
5. Prepare the Alfredo sauce:
   • In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, and whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Combine meatballs and sauce:
   • Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the meatballs are fully coated and the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Serve warm:
   • Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Net Carbs: 5g

7. Low-Carb Ricotta Meatball Soup

Warm, hearty, and comforting, this Low-Carb Ricotta Meatball Soup is a perfect choice for chilly evenings or when you crave a cozy, satisfying bowl. With tender ricotta meatballs simmered in a flavorful, low-carb broth, this soup combines nutrition, ease, and bold flavors in every spoonful.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Soup Base:
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
  • 1 cup spinach leaves, chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, low-sodium)
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare the meatballs:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing.
2. Form meatballs:
   • Roll mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and set aside.
3. Prepare the soup base:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add broth and vegetables:
   • Pour in the low-sodium beef or chicken broth. Add diced tomatoes, carrots, zucchini, spinach, and dried thyme.
5. Bring the soup to a boil:
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and reduce heat to a simmer.
6. Add meatballs to the soup:
   • Gently add meatballs into the simmering broth. Allow the meatballs to cook for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning:
   • Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.
8. Serve warm:
   • Garnish with fresh herbs (optional) and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Net Carbs: 5g

8. Pesto Ricotta Meatballs

These Pesto Ricotta Meatballs are a flavorful and easy low-carb option perfect for anyone who loves fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan. Bursting with the bold taste of homemade pesto and paired with ricotta cheese, these meatballs are a unique and healthy twist on the traditional recipe. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or addition to a zoodle bowl!

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional for Serving:
  • Extra pesto for drizzling
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, pesto, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until just combined but do not overmix.
3. Form meatballs:
   • Scoop out 1 1/2-inch portions and roll them into meatballs. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
5. Serve:
   • Drizzle with extra pesto if desired and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 5g

9. Buffalo Ricotta Meatballs

These Buffalo Ricotta Meatballs are a bold, flavorful twist on traditional meatballs with a spicy kick! Perfect for anyone who loves the combination of heat and flavor, these meatballs are smothered in tangy buffalo sauce and paired with creamy ricotta cheese for a mouthwatering low-carb option. They’re great as an appetizer, main dish, or game day snack!

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Buffalo Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Optional for Serving:
  • Blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping
  • Chopped celery or carrots

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until just combined but avoid overmixing.
3. Form meatballs:
   • Scoop out 1 1/2-inch portions and roll them into meatballs. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.
5. Prepare the buffalo sauce:
   • In a medium skillet over low heat, combine the buffalo sauce and butter. Stir until smooth and warmed through.
6. Coat meatballs in the buffalo sauce:
   • Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce until fully coated.
7. Serve warm:
   • Serve with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing, and add chopped celery or carrots for added crunch.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 6g

10. Zucchini and Ricotta Meatballs

These Zucchini and Ricotta Meatballs are a fresh, healthy, and low-carb twist on traditional meatballs. Packed with tender zucchini and creamy ricotta, they are flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious, veggie-packed meal. These meatballs are great on their own, in a low-carb pasta substitute, or served with a fresh salad!

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground turkey or chicken
  • 1 cup zucchini, grated and excess water removed
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Marinara Sauce (Optional):
  • 1 cup low-sodium marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the meatball mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, grated zucchini (with excess water squeezed out), ricotta cheese, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix until well combined but don’t overmix.
3. Form meatballs:
   • Scoop out 1 1/2-inch portions and roll them into meatballs. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until browned and fully cooked.
5. Prepare the sauce (optional):
   • While the meatballs are baking, heat 1 tsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce and simmer for 3-5 minutes until warm.
6. Serve:
   • Toss baked meatballs with the marinara sauce if desired, or serve them on their own with fresh basil or Parmesan as a garnish.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Net Carbs: 6g

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta in these meatball recipes?

Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute ricotta with cream cheese, cottage cheese, or mascarpone for similar textures and flavors. Just keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.

Are these meatball recipes suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! These low-carb ricotta meatballs are perfect for meal prepping. Cook a batch and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make these meatballs dairy-free?

Yes! You can try dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat-based ricotta or simply omit the ricotta and adjust with low-carb alternatives like ground flaxseed or coconut flour as needed.

How can I make these meatballs spicier or more flavorful?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a spoonful of your favorite seasoning blend, like Italian seasoning or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor and spice to your liking.