This dish features tender, golden-brown meatballs nestled in a velvety, spice-infused cream sauce. The meatballs are prepared with a base of ground meat and almond flour, providing a juicy and satisfying texture, while the sauce is enriched with butter and cream cheese for a glossy, thick consistency. With subtle flecks of black pepper and a warm, savory aroma of garlic and nutmeg, this bake offers a comforting and festive low-carb meal with a smooth, rich finish.

About This Recipe

The meatballs are prepared by combining ground meat with almond flour and egg to ensure they maintain their structure and moisture during the baking process. Once seared or baked until golden, they are transferred to a rich holiday sauce made from a reduction of chicken broth, heavy cream, and butter. A final bake allows the meatballs to absorb the surrounding liquids, resulting in a cohesive dish where the savory proteins and creamy elements are fully integrated.

The flavor profile is characterized by the warm, aromatic notes of nutmeg and garlic powder balanced by the slight tang of Dijon mustard. These holiday-inspired spices are carried through the high-fat base of cream and cream cheese, creating a well-rounded and savory experience that mimics traditional winter casseroles. The use of almond flour instead of breadcrumbs provides a subtle nuttiness that complements the earthy seasonings without adding unnecessary carbohydrates.

Typically served hot in a deep baking dish, this recipe is a practical choice for hosting winter gatherings or for advance meal preparation. The sauce can be easily adjusted for thickness by varying the simmering time or the amount of cream cheese used to reach the desired consistency. The finished bake has a rustic, inviting appearance that is often enhanced with a garnish of fresh parsley or an extra dusting of nutmeg to emphasize its seasonal character.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cozy holiday flavors
Creamy and comforting low-carb dish
Perfect for winter dinners
Juicy baked meatballs
Great for meal prep
Crowd-friendly holiday casserole
Naturally gluten-free
Pairs well with keto sides

What You’ll Need for This Christmas Meatball Bake

Meatballs

1 lb ground beef or turkey
1/4 cup almond flour
1 egg
1 tbsp minced onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika

Creamy Holiday Sauce

2 tbsp butter
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp cream cheese
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper

Optional Toppings

Chopped parsley
Cracked black pepper
A pinch of nutmeg

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preheat oven to 400°F.
In a bowl, mix ground meat, almond flour, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
Bake 12–15 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet.
Add broth, cream, cream cheese, Dijon, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Transfer meatballs to a baking dish and pour sauce over them.
Bake 10 minutes to blend flavors.
Add optional toppings and serve warm.

FAQ

Can I use ground pork or chicken?
Yes—any ground meat works.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
Can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer longer or add extra cream cheese.
Can I prepare this ahead?
Yes—assemble and bake before serving.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, freeze before or after cooking.

Variations & Substitutions

Add mushrooms to the sauce
Use thyme instead of nutmeg for a different holiday taste
Make it spicy with a pinch of chili flakes
Replace almond flour with pork rinds
Add parmesan for extra richness

Serving Suggestions

Serve with cauliflower mash
Pair with roasted winter vegetables
Add a simple holiday salad

Print Pin