Description
These Gluten-Free Meatballs are tender, flavorful, and easy to make, using lean meat, gluten-free binders like crackers or almond meal, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for baking, frying, or slow-cooking, they pair well with pasta, veggies, or as appetizers. A versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s healthy and delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef, chicken, or turkey (lean, 93-98%)
- 1/2 cup crushed gluten-free crackers or almond meal (or 1/4 cup cooked rice/gluten-free oats)
- 1/4 cup grated dairy-free cheese (optional)
- 1 large egg (or egg substitute for binding)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying, optional)
- 1 cup gluten-free marinara sauce (or sauce of choice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, crushed gluten-free crackers (or almond meal), dairy-free cheese (if using), egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. - Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized balls (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter). This recipe should yield approximately 20-24 meatballs. - Cook the Meatballs:
- Baking Option: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Frying Option: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).
- Slow Cooker Option: Place the meatballs in a slow cooker, cover with your choice of sauce, and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Serve:
Serve the meatballs with gluten-free pasta, over spiralized vegetables, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated dairy-free cheese if desired.
Notes
- Serve:
Serve the meatballs with gluten-free pasta, over spiralized vegetables, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated dairy-free cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (baking), 10-12 minutes (frying), 4-6 hours (slow cooker)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Frying, or Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 meatballs
- Calories: 250-300
Keywords: Gluten-free meatballs, healthy meatballs, gluten-free dinner, dairy-free meatballs, easy gluten-free recipes