Low-carb diets have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their potential benefits in weight loss and blood sugar control. For those looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor, the Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs recipe is a perfect fit. This dish combines the rich, savory taste of traditional enchiladas with the simplicity and convenience of meatballs. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to making this delicious meal, along with some insights into its nutritional benefits.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp taco seasoning
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Casserole:
- Cooked meatballs
- 1 10 oz can red enchilada sauce (Las Palmas brand recommended)
- 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese
Directions
Meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine all the meatball ingredients in a large bowl: ground beef, egg, cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the mixture into approximately 15 meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the meatballs cook through.
Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a small baking dish or cast iron skillet.
- Arrange the cooked meatballs in the dish and top with the remaining enchilada sauce. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese over the top.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 309.8
- Fat: 21.6g
- Protein: 23.9g
- Net Carbs: 3.7g
This recipe makes five servings, making it a great option for meal prep or family dinners.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
Ground Beef
Ground beef is a versatile and popular ingredient in many low-carb recipes. It is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair, and provides a good source of iron and vitamin B12. Choosing lean ground beef can help reduce the overall fat content if desired.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture and a rich flavor to the meatballs. It also contributes to the overall protein content and provides calcium, which is important for bone health.
Taco Seasoning
Taco seasoning brings a burst of flavor to the meatballs. You can use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Onion Powder
Onion powder adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor without the added carbs of fresh onions. It’s a great way to enhance the taste profile of the meatballs.
Red Enchilada Sauce
The enchilada sauce is the star of the casserole, providing a tangy, spicy flavor that complements the meatballs perfectly. The Las Palmas brand is recommended for its authentic taste, but feel free to use your favorite brand or make your own.
Mexican Cheese Blend
A blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, and queso quesadilla creates a melty, gooey topping that makes the casserole irresistible. This blend also adds an additional layer of flavor complexity to the dish.
Preparing Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs
Preparing this dish is straightforward and suitable even for beginner cooks. The process involves making the meatballs, baking them, and then assembling the casserole for a second round of baking. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Mixing the Meatballs: First, combine the ground beef with the other meatball ingredients. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Shaping and Baking: Next, form the mixture into meatballs of uniform size to ensure even cooking. Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier.
- Assembling the Casserole: After cooking the meatballs, transfer them to a baking dish with enchilada sauce and top with cheese. This final baking step allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden topping.
Serving Suggestions
Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs can be served on their own or paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions:
- Cauliflower Rice: A popular low-carb alternative to rice, cauliflower rice soaks up the enchilada sauce and complements the meatballs perfectly.
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the meatballs.
- Guacamole: A dollop of homemade guacamole adds a creamy texture and fresh flavor to the meal.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less taco seasoning and choosing a mild or spicy enchilada sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or a sharp cheddar to change up the flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Assemble the casserole when ready to bake for a quick meal.
Health Benefits
The Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs recipe is not only delicious but also aligns well with various health goals:
- Low Carbohydrate Content: With only 3.7 grams of net carbs per serving, this dish is suitable for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
- High Protein: Each serving provides nearly 24 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for maintaining muscle mass and satiety.
- Healthy Fats: The recipe includes healthy fats from the beef and cheese, which are important for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins and maintaining energy levels.
Conclusion
Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs offer a tasty and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and nutritional benefits, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these meatballs are a versatile and delicious option that you can feel good about eating. Enjoy the savory taste of enchiladas with the convenience of meatballs in this delightful casserole that is both comforting and nutritious.
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Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs: A Flavorful and Healthy Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Low Carb Enchilada Meatballs are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional enchiladas. These meatballs are packed with flavor, combining ground beef with enchilada sauce and spices. They are perfect for a low-carb diet and make a great appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp taco seasoning
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Casserole:
- Cooked meatballs
- 1 10 oz can red enchilada sauce (Las Palmas brand recommended)
- 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g