Name: Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound low-fat ground beef (I used 93/7); 1/4 cup fat-free milk; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; to taste salt & pepper; 1 egg white; 2 cups marinara sauce (I used Rao's)

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There’s something incredibly heartwarming about preparing a dish like Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan. I remember the first time I made meatballs from scratch—it was a chilly evening, and the aroma of savory ingredients filled my kitchen, wrapping me in warmth. The rich blend of flavors, especially with the addition of rich marinara sauce and creamy parmesan cheese, always reminds me of family gatherings and cozy dinners. As I rolled the meatballs, I felt connected to those cherished moments spent at the dinner table, where laughter and deliciousness intertwined. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey, bringing comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
337 kcal

Protein:
30.8 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
16.9 g

Tools Used:
8×8 baking dish

What We Adore About This Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan

Healthier Choices

One of the standout features of this Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan is its focus on being nutritious while still delivering on taste. With low-fat ground beef and fat-free milk, we’re cutting down on unnecessary calories without sacrificing flavor. It’s about enjoying your favorites while still being kind to your waistline!

Customizable Ingredients

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Want to swap the parmesan cheese for something else? Go for it! This flexibility makes it a go-to for busy weeknights when creativity strikes.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These meatballs are fantastic for meal prepping. Make a big batch, freeze them, and you’ll have a healthy dinner option ready to go. Just pop them in the oven, and you’ll have a hearty meal with minimal effort!

Family-Friendly Meal

Kids love meatballs, and this Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan is no exception. The fun of rolling the meatballs and the satisfaction of a cheesy, gooey topping will make even the pickiest eaters happy. It’s a meal that brings everyone together.

Great for Leftovers

If there are any leftovers (though I doubt it), this dish tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld beautifully, making it a delightful lunch option. You can serve it over a bed of greens or in a sandwich!

Shopping List for Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan

The ingredients in this dish are simple yet powerful. They work together to create a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef, parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce gives it that comforting, hearty feel we all love. And don’t forget about the fresh basil, which elevates the dish with its fragrant aroma!

1 pound low-fat ground beef: Opt for 93/7 for the best balance of flavor and health benefits.
1/4 cup fat-free milk: Keeps the meatballs moist without adding extra calories.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor essential for this dish.
1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs while providing a nice texture.
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped: Fresh herbs like basil bring a burst of freshness to the dish.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for enhancing the flavors.
1 egg white: Acts as a binding agent for the meat mixture.
2 cups marinara sauce: A flavorful sauce that’s the icing on the cake for this dish.

Making This Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan

Cooking can be such a rewarding experience, especially when working on a dish as comforting as Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead to your delicious creation!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This initial step is crucial as it prepares the cooking environment for your meatballs, ensuring they bake evenly and thoroughly.
Lightly spray your baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the meatballs from sticking to the bottom, allowing for easy serving later.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with fat-free milk, parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, basil, salt, pepper, and egg white. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is well combined. You want the mixture to be cohesive, but avoid overmixing, which can make the meatballs tough.
Once well mixed, divide the mixture into eight equal portions. Roll these portions into balls; this is where the fun begins! Make sure they’re uniform in size so they’ll cook evenly.
Place the meatballs into your prepared baking dish, ensuring they’re spaced out. This allows the heat to circulate around them, resulting in a perfectly cooked meatball.
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they’re well coated. The sauce not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meatballs moist during baking.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil. This traps steam and helps the meatballs cook through without drying out.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. You can check for doneness by cutting into one of the meatballs; it should be no longer pink inside.
Once baked, remove the foil and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more flavorful bite.
Serve your delicious meatballs with a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese on top, and enjoy alongside your favorite sides or pasta!

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Matters: Always ensure your oven is preheated to achieve the best results. Uneven cooking can occur if you skip this step.
Mixing Technique: When mixing the meat, don’t overdo it! Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs, while gentle mixing yields a tender bite.
Testing for Doneness: If you’re unsure about the doneness of your meatballs, using a meat thermometer is a great way to check. They should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Substitutions and Tips

Creating the perfect Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan can be as simple as following your taste preference. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

Storage: To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for about three days.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatballs. Just shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready to use, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!
Meat Choices: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option.
Cheese Options: Swap out parmesan for mozzarella for a creamier, gooey texture.

Pairing Suggestions for Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan

When it comes to serving Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan, the possibilities are endless! Here are some wonderful pairing ideas:

Spaghetti: A classic pairing! Serve your meatballs over a bed of spaghetti for a comforting Italian meal.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up that delicious marinara sauce.
Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the meatballs, balancing the meal.
Rice: Serve the meatballs on a bed of rice for a wholesome meal that absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables add a colorful touch and bring freshness to the plate.
Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings. It’s easy to make in large batches!

FAQ

Absolutely! To make gluten-free Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of the traditional ones. There are many great options available that will work just as well without compromising taste or texture.

The best way to check the doneness of your meatballs is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have one, you can cut a meatball in half to check for any pinkness. If it’s fully cooked, the juices should run clear.

Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs! Once they’ve cooled, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

These Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan meatballs are versatile! You can serve them over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad. They also pair beautifully with garlic bread and roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

The Macro Friendly Meatball Parmesan is a delicious and wholesome dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your table. It’s not only easy to prepare but also nutritious, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or meal prep. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed. With each bite, you’ll experience the joy of hearty flavors and the warmth of home-cooked goodness.