Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs

Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional enchiladas, combining juicy meatballs with flavorful enchilada sauce and melty cheese. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal while keeping carbs in check. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these meatballs make a satisfying dinner option for the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

For the Enchilada Sauce:

• 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced green onions
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make the Meatballs
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped cilantro if using. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake the Meatballs
   Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
4. Prepare the Enchilada Sauce
   While the meatballs are baking, heat the enchilada sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce
   Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a baking dish. Pour the warm enchilada sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully coated.
6. Add Cheese and Bake Again
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the meatballs and sauce. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
   Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, sliced jalapeños, and sour cream, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. The total preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 40 minutes for cooking, making the total time approximately 55 minutes.

Variations

• Different Meats: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the meat mixture for extra heat.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack or feta for unique flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.
2. Is the almond flour necessary?
   Yes, it helps bind the meatballs while keeping the recipe low carb.
3. Can I use all ground beef instead?
   Yes, you can substitute all ground beef for the pork if desired.
4. What kind of enchilada sauce should I use?
   You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own for a fresher taste.
5. Can I freeze the meatballs?
   Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
6. What can I serve with these meatballs?
   They pair well with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a fresh salad.
7. Are these meatballs spicy?
   The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder or jalapeños.
8. Can I use a different cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
9. How do I know when the meatballs are done?
   They should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
10. What if I don’t have almond flour?
    You can substitute it with crushed pork rinds or ground flaxseed, but it may alter the texture slightly.

Conclusion

Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs are a flavorful and satisfying dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. With a combination of savory meats, zesty sauce, and melted cheese, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking for a hearty meal, these meatballs are a fantastic choice. Enjoy!

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