The Best Paleo Meatballs – Savory, High Protein, Grain-Free
If you’re looking for an easy, protein-packed grain-free dinner that’s both paleo-friendly and incredibly delicious, you’re in the right place. These Savory Paleo Turkey Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick weeknight meal or healthy family dinner.
Unlike traditional meatballs that rely on breadcrumbs, these are completely gluten-free and grain-free, using almond flour for structure without compromising texture. Plus, the combination of ground beef and turkey keeps them tender while adding depth of flavor.
Whether you serve them on their own, over zucchini noodles, or with your favorite sauce, these are the best healthy meatball recipe for anyone looking for a balanced, high-protein meal. If you’ve been searching for a healthy meatball recipe without pasta, this one is sure to be a favorite!
Why You’ll Love These Paleo Meatballs
These aren’t your average meatballs—each bite is packed with rich, savory flavor and nourishing ingredients that support your wellness goals. Here’s why they’ll become a go-to in your grain-free dinner lineup:
✔ Protein-Packed & Satisfying – With a blend of beef and turkey, these meatballs provide the perfect balance of healthy fats and lean protein.
✔ Grain-Free & Paleo-Friendly – Made without breadcrumbs, these are a great option if you’re following a paleo, Whole30, or gluten-free diet.
✔ Quick & Easy – Just mix, roll, and bake—no complicated steps or fancy equipment needed.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. They store well and taste just as good reheated!
✔ Versatile & Family-Friendly – Serve them on their own, over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or even in a lettuce wrap for a fun twist on a classic.
If you’ve been looking for the best healthy meatball recipe that’s simple, flavorful, and completely grain-free, this is the perfect one to try. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef (80/20)
1/2 pound ground turkey
1/3 cup almond flour
1 egg
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Use clean hands to mix gently, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed without over-mixing.
Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about the size of a golf ball). Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).
Cool and Serve: Allow the meatballs to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy immediately or store for later use.
Tips for the Best Paleo Meatballs
Making the perfect grain-free meatballs is all about balance—flavor, texture, and cooking technique. Here are my top tips to ensure your paleo meatballs turn out juicy, tender, and full of flavor every time:
✔ Use a Mix of Meat – Combining ground beef and turkey gives the best of both worlds. The beef provides richness and moisture, while the turkey keeps the meatballs from becoming too heavy. This mix also enhances the overall flavor without being too greasy.
✔ Don’t Over-Mix – When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is evenly incorporated. Overworking the mixture can lead to dense, tough meatballs. Gently folding everything together with clean hands is the best way to keep them tender.
✔ Check for Doneness – Since these meatballs don’t contain breadcrumbs, they can be a little trickier to gauge doneness just by look. Using a meat thermometer ensures they’re cooked through without being overdone—aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
✔ Make Ahead – These meatballs are perfect for meal prep. You can store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months for a quick, protein-packed meal whenever you need it.
Serving Suggestions
These paleo-friendly meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them:
Zucchini Noodles – Serve them over zoodles with a drizzle of olive oil or a light tomato sauce for a low-carb, high-protein meal.
Cauliflower Rice – Pair them with seasoned cauliflower rice for a hearty but grain-free alternative to traditional pasta.
Simple Marinara Sauce – Keep it classic by serving these meatballs with a sugar-free marinara sauce for a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish.
Lettuce Wraps – For a low-carb, high-protein snack, wrap them in crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves with a touch of mustard or avocado slices.
Bonus Idea: Add them to a salad with baby spinach, roasted veggies, and a balsamic dressing for a nutrient-dense, easy meal.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
One of the best things about these paleo meatballs is that they store and reheat beautifully. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
Refrigerate: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Let the meatballs cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To keep them juicy when reheating:
Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Skillet: Reheat over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent drying out.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, though this method can dry them out faster.
More Easy Whole Foods Recipes You’ll Love:
These Savory Paleo Meatballs are a simple, flavorful, and nutrient-dense addition to any meal. Whether you enjoy them fresh, use them for meal prep, or freeze them for later, they’re a satisfying and versatile way to fuel your body with whole, nourishing ingredients.
Let me know if you try this recipe! And for more support on your wellness journey, join our Discord community for nutrition tips, meal ideas, and encouragement from like-minded members.