Gluten Free Low Carb Swedish Meatballs – A Comforting Classic, Made Healthy

If you’re following a gluten-free or low-carb lifestyle but still crave the rich, savory comfort foods you grew up with, these Gluten Free Low Carb Swedish Meatballs will be a staple in your kitchen. This recipe is a modern, healthier twist on the traditional Swedish dish—minus the breadcrumbs and flour-based gravy—without sacrificing that creamy, dreamy flavor. Whether you’re keto, gluten-intolerant, or simply looking to cut carbs, this dish is a winner in taste, texture, and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are incredibly juicy and flavorful, made with a blend of ground beef and Italian pork sausage, and bound together with almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative. The addition of nutmeg and parsley gives a subtle nod to traditional Swedish flavors, while the rich cream cheese and beef broth sauce ties it all together in silky, savory goodness.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, meal prep, or a cozy winter night, this dish delivers indulgent comfort with a healthy twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 lb ground Italian pork sausage

• ½ cup almond flour

• ½ cup finely chopped onions

• 2 tsp dried parsley

• 1 tsp garlic salt

• ½ tsp ground pepper

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

For the Cream Sauce:

• 4 tbsp butter

• 3 tbsp cream cheese (softened in microwave ~20 seconds)

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• ¼ tsp pepper

• ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Spatula or wooden spoon

• Oven preheated to 425°F (220°C)

• Optional: electric mixer (on low) for combining meat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pork sausage, almond flour, chopped onions, parsley, garlic salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly using your hands (for the best texture), or use a stand mixer on low speed if preferred.

2. Shape and Bake

Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.

3. Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cream cheese, whisking until smooth. Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently until it begins to thicken—about 5–7 minutes.

4. Simmer Together

Once the meatballs are done, transfer them into the cream sauce and simmer over low heat for another 5–10 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling slightly and the flavors have combined beautifully.

5. Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot!

Recipe Tips and Variations

Swap Almond Flour

Not a fan of almond flour? You can substitute it with coconut flour (use only ⅓ the amount as it absorbs more liquid) or ground flaxseed.

Dairy-Free Option

For those avoiding dairy, substitute coconut cream for the heavy whipping cream, and use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives.

Meat Options

If you prefer poultry, use a mix of ground turkey and chicken sausage for a lighter version.

Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the meat mixture for a kick.

Freezer-Friendly

These meatballs freeze exceptionally well. Bake them first, then freeze in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet with the sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

To freeze:

• Let the meatballs and sauce cool completely.

• Transfer to freezer-safe containers.

• Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Food & Drink Pairings

Side Dishes

• Cauliflower mash – the perfect low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.

• Zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles – for a pasta-like feel without the carbs.

• Steamed green beans or broccoli – for a healthy veggie side.

Drink Pairings

• A glass of dry red wine (like Pinot Noir or Merlot) complements the richness.

• For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon or herbal teas are refreshing choices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these Swedish meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can form the meatballs and store them in the fridge (covered) up to 24 hours in advance. You can also bake them and reheat them in the sauce before serving.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s both keto and low-carb thanks to the use of almond flour and the absence of starch-based thickeners.

Can I make this without pork?

Certainly. Just replace the pork sausage with more ground beef, turkey, or chicken. If you use all beef, you may want to adjust the seasoning for added flavor.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can omit the cream cheese, but the sauce will be a bit less thick and creamy. In that case, reduce the broth slightly or simmer longer for a thicker consistency.

What’s the best way to chop onions finely?

A food processor makes quick work of chopping onions uniformly. If chopping by hand, use a sharp knife and slice as finely as possible to avoid big onion chunks in the meatballs.

Who This Recipe is Perfect For

This recipe is designed for anyone following a gluten-free, low-carb, or keto diet, but don’t let that label fool you—these meatballs are loved by all! If you’ve been searching for comfort food that doesn’t derail your health goals, these Swedish meatballs will be your new go-to. Even picky eaters and traditionalists won’t miss the breadcrumbs or flour-laden gravy.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re prepping for a cozy family dinner, entertaining guests with dietary restrictions, or just craving something warm and satisfying, these Gluten Free Low Carb Swedish Meatballs will rise to the occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish is one you’ll come back to again and again.

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Happy cooking!