Carnivore Meatballs Recipe
These Carnivore Meatballs are a delicious, easy, and satisfying way to enjoy a meat-based meal while sticking to your carnivore diet. Made with ground beef, pork, and simple animal-based ingredients, they’re rich in flavor, protein, and fats, without any carbs. Perfect for meal prepping, serving with your favorite carnivore-friendly sauce, or simply as a snack, these meatballs are a go-to for anyone following a zero-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80-85% lean for optimal juiciness)
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (adds flavor and moisture)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 oz (55g) cream cheese (optional, for extra richness and creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for flavor, but can be skipped for stricter carnivores)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons beef tallow, butter, or lard (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (optional, like parsley or thyme, but optional for strict carnivore)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the eggs, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to the meat mixture. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until the mixture is evenly combined. If you prefer to skip the dairy, you can omit the cream cheese and Parmesan, and the meatballs will still turn out flavorful.
2. Season the Meatballs:
Add garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. For those following a stricter carnivore diet, you can skip the garlic powder, as some prefer to keep their recipes entirely animal-based. If you’re including fresh herbs, add them now as well. Mix everything together until fully incorporated.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, take portions of the meat mixture and form them into meatballs. Each meatball should be about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make about 12-14 meatballs from this mixture, depending on your preferred size.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the beef tallow, butter, or lard in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the fat is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook them in batches if necessary. Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning them occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes. You’ll want the meatballs to cook through, reaching an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C). Make sure they’re browned and crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
5. Serve the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
These Carnivore Meatballs can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of carnivore-friendly sides:
- Carnivore Blue Cheese Sauce or Heavy Cream Sauce for dipping
- Served with a side of scrambled eggs or bacon for a hearty breakfast
- On their own as a high-protein, no-carb snack
- Add them to a carnivore-approved casserole or a salad
Tips and Variations:
- Moisture and Flavor: The combination of beef and pork helps to keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful, but you can also add ground lamb or even ground chicken if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: These meatballs are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven or pan-fry them again for a crispy exterior.
- Crispier Texture: If you prefer your meatballs to have an extra crispy exterior, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Why These Meatballs Work for a Carnivore Diet:
These Carnivore Meatballs are made using whole, animal-based ingredients. With no added carbs, grains, or vegetables, they fit perfectly into a strict carnivore lifestyle. The ground beef and pork provide a great balance of protein and fat, while the addition of eggs and cream cheese adds moisture and richness. This dish is satisfying, filling, and a fantastic way to incorporate variety into your carnivore meals.
Enjoy these meatballs with confidence that you’re sticking to your carnivore principles without sacrificing flavor or texture.