ITALIAN MEATBALLS WITH CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE » paleo + whole30

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground chicken

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground chicken is often less expensive.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.

canned tomatoes

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: store-brand canned tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes can be healthier when in season, while store-brand options save money.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has similar health benefits, while canola oil is often less expensive.

Combine all meatball ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix until combined well, using your hands. Do not overmix.

Use a disher and portion out meatball mixture into even balls; repeat until all meatball mixture is used.

Heat a layer of refined coconut or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry meatballs in batches until brown on all sides and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

Pour out oil if excess remains. Add 2 teaspoons avocado or refined coconut oil to skillet over medium-low heat. Add garlic and, stirring constantly, cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Add remaining sauce ingredients and stir to combine well. Bring to a low boil then reduce heat slightly and simmer for about 5-10 minutes or until a bit thickened.

Return meatballs to skillet and simmer 3-5 minutes to absorb sauce. Serve over zoodles or alone and top with fresh chopped parsley.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens