My weeknight dinners have been in a little bit of a rut recently, so I’m trying to introduce one new recipe a week into my rotation. This week we’ve been enjoying these Paleo Italian Meatballs which are super easy to make, filling and really tasty! And of course, just like all of our Lean & Clean recipes they are low carb, protein packed and designed to boost your metabolic health:​

The combination of ground beef and pork in this recipe provides a powerhouse of high-quality protein, essential for maintaining lean muscle mass and supporting metabolic health, especially as we age. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, which in turn helps increase your metabolic rate, allowing your body to burn more calories even at rest. Additionally, the iron and B vitamins found in red meat, like ground beef, support energy production and cognitive function, which are essential for overall vitality. When paired with nutrient-dense almond flour, which adds a dose of healthy fats and fiber, this recipe becomes a satisfying meal that promotes stable blood sugar levels, reducing the likelihood of energy crashes and cravings.

From a beauty perspective, the ingredients in this recipe are loaded with nutrients that benefit your skin, hair, and nails. The onions and garlic are rich in sulfur compounds, which help detoxify the body and support the synthesis of collagen, a protein that maintains skin elasticity and firmness. The healthy fats from almond flour and olive or avocado oil not only enhance the flavor but also help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are vital for glowing skin and strong, shiny hair. The herbs and spices, including oregano, parsley, and smoked paprika, are packed with antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental stressors, preventing premature aging.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (ensure it’s paleo-friendly)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for cooking)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, almond flour, egg, coconut aminos, Dijon mustard, oregano, parsley, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.

Mix everything together using your hands until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. If you have time refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to help all of the ingredients combine.

Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used, making about 20-24 meatballs.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F or 71°C). You can also cook these in an air fryer for 14 minutes at 400 degrees.

I love to serve these with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles and a sugar free pasta sauce.

Happy Eating!

P.S. my Lean & Clean Weight Loss Program for Women Over 40 has over 100 (!) low carb, protein packed recipes designed to switch your body into fat burning mode. You can currently save $200 on the program (limited time only) by clicking here. ​