Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
There’s nothing more comforting than a warm plate of beef meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce. This recipe is a lighter, low-carb version of the classic Italian-American dish. It skips breadcrumbs and sugar but still gives you juicy, flavorful meatballs that everyone will love.
These meatballs are made with simple ingredients like beef, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked in a sugar-free tomato sauce. They’re perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, but delicious enough for the whole family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-carb tomato sauce (sugar-free)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix—just combine until everything is blended.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Form the mixture into meatballs about 1½ inches wide. This size helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the meatballs in the skillet and brown them on all sides. Work in batches if needed so the pan doesn’t get crowded.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Once the meatballs are browned, pour tomato sauce over them in the skillet.
Step 5: Bake Until Cooked
Transfer the skillet to the oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through. The inside should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan cheese. Serve warm on their own, with zucchini noodles, or next to roasted vegetables.
Why These Meatballs Are Low-Carb Friendly
Most traditional meatball recipes use breadcrumbs, but this version uses Parmesan cheese instead. This keeps the carbs low while adding extra flavor. The tomato sauce is also sugar-free, making it perfect for keto and low-carb diets.
Serving Ideas
You don’t need pasta to enjoy these meatballs! Here are some tasty low-carb sides you can try:
- Zucchini noodles (“zoodles”)
- Cauliflower mash
- Roasted spaghetti squash
- Sautéed spinach or kale
- Shirataki noodles
Storage and Meal Prep
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- These meatballs also freeze really well—make a double batch and save some for later!
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.
Conclusion

These Juicy Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy or unhealthy. With no breadcrumbs and no added sugar, they fit perfectly into low-carb and keto lifestyles while still tasting rich, hearty, and satisfying.
Make them for dinner tonight, and enjoy a cozy, healthy twist on a true classic!