Name: The Best Gluten-Free Meatballs (Easy Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487793H19M11S
Total time: PT-487793H19M11S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup gluten-free bread crumbs; 2 tbsp minced fresh garlic; 2 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tbsp paprika; Sea salt and black pepper (to taste); 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk; 2 lbs lean ground beef; 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup; 2 tbsp mustard; 2 large eggs

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These gluten-free meatballs are juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Made with lean ground beef, savory spices, and a combination of mustard and ketchup for a tangy twist, they’re perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a protein-packed snack. These meatballs are gluten-free, but they’re so flavorful and moist that you’ll never miss the breadcrumbs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free bread crumbs, these meatballs are safe for anyone with gluten sensitivities or following a gluten-free diet.
Moist and Tender: The secret to their moistness lies in soaking the breadcrumbs in almond milk, which keeps them soft and juicy.
Full of Flavor: With a perfect balance of garlic, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning, these meatballs are bursting with flavor.
Simple to Make: With just a few steps, these meatballs come together easily. No frying required—just bake them in the oven for perfect results.
Versatile: Serve them with gluten-free pasta, zoodles, spaghetti squash, or even on top of a salad for a low-carb option.

Ingredients

1 cup gluten-free bread crumbs
2 tbsp minced fresh garlic
2 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp paprika
Sea salt and black pepper (to taste)
3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 lbs lean ground beef
2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
2 tbsp mustard
2 large eggs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Soak the Bread Crumbs: In a small bowl, soak the gluten-free breadcrumbs and spices in the unsweetened almond milk for about 5-10 minutes. This helps keep your meatballs moist and tender.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the soaked bread crumbs, ground beef, sugar-free ketchup, mustard, and eggs. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to roll the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball. You can also use a cookie scoop for even-sized meatballs.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 23-28 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning, until the meatballs are golden and cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the meatballs with gluten-free spaghetti, zoodles, spaghetti squash, or on top of a salad for a low-carb option.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 16-20 meatballs (depending on size)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 23-28 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add Cheese: Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a bit of heat.
Different Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor and texture.
Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley for a personalized flavor boost.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: These meatballs freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of gluten-free?

Yes, if you’re not following a gluten-free diet, you can use regular breadcrumbs in place of the gluten-free version.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time, shape them, and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day. Simply bake them when ready to serve.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Can I use a different kind of milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice, including cow’s milk or coconut milk.

Can I bake these meatballs in a muffin tin?

Yes, you can use a muffin tin to bake the meatballs. Just make sure to grease the tin and bake for the same amount of time.

Conclusion

These gluten-free meatballs are the perfect combination of moist, flavorful, and easy to make. With a combination of lean ground beef, spices, and the magic of soaked breadcrumbs, they are both tender and satisfying. Serve them with your favorite gluten-free pasta or as a low-carb snack on top of a salad. These meatballs are sure to be a hit at any dinner table!