Breakfast

Breakfast Meatballs

Name: Breakfast Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) sausage, casings removed; 6 slices of bacon, diced; 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup (60g) almond flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

By Una Calloway · June 19, 2026 · Breakfast

Prep20 min

Cook20 min

Total40 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made breakfast meatballs for my family. It was a Sunday morning, and we were all craving something hearty and delicious. I had some sausage, bacon, and cheese on hand, so I decided to combine them with some eggs and spices to create the perfect breakfast treat.

These breakfast meatballs are not only delicious, but they're also low in carbs and rich in protein and healthy fats, making them a great option for a keto diet. They're also incredibly versatile - you can serve them on their own, with some scrambled eggs, or even as a topping for a breakfast burrito.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's so easy to customize. You can use different types of sausage or cheese, add in some diced veggies, or even use different seasonings to give the meatballs a unique flavor. And the best part is that you can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy breakfast on-the-go.

In this recipe, I'll show you how to make these delicious breakfast meatballs from scratch. We'll start with the ingredients, then move on to the instructions, and finally, I'll share some tips and variations to help you make the most of this recipe.

So, let's get started! Whether you're a busy morning person or a leisurely brunch enthusiast, these breakfast meatballs are sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These breakfast meatballs are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for busy mornings.
They're low in carbs and rich in protein and healthy fats, making them a great option for a keto diet.
They're incredibly versatile and can be served on their own, with scrambled eggs, or even as a topping for a breakfast burrito.
They're perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy breakfast on-the-go.
They're a great way to get your daily dose of protein and can be made with a variety of ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
They're a fun and delicious twist on traditional breakfast foods and are sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great breakfast meatballs is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook them at the right temperature. In this recipe, we're using sausage, bacon, and cheese, which provide a rich and savory flavor. We're also using eggs as a binder, which helps to hold the meatballs together and gives them a nice texture.

When it comes to cooking the meatballs, it's all about heat control. We're using a medium-high heat to sear the meatballs and get a nice crust on the outside, then finishing them off in the oven to cook them through. This helps to lock in the juices and flavors, and ensures that the meatballs are cooked to perfection.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of seasoning in layers. We're using a combination of salt, pepper, and spices to add depth and complexity to the meatballs, and we're adding them at different stages of the cooking process to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

Finally, it's all about resting and serving. Once the meatballs are cooked, we're letting them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, then serving them hot and fresh. This helps to ensure that the meatballs are tender and flavorful, and that they're at their best when you take a bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making breakfast meatballs, the ingredients are just as important as the instructions. You'll want to use high-quality sausage, bacon, and cheese, as well as some eggs and spices to add flavor and texture. Here's a list of the ingredients you'll need to get started:

Be sure to choose ingredients that are fresh and of high quality, and don't be afraid to experiment with different types of sausage or cheese to find the combination that you like best.

1 lb (450g) sausage, casings removedYou can use any type of sausage you like, but I prefer to use a spicy Italian sausage for this recipe. Be sure to remove the casings before using the sausage, as this will help it to cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too dense.
6 slices of bacon, dicedThe bacon adds a smoky flavor to the meatballs and helps to keep them moist. You can use any type of bacon you like, but I prefer to use a thick-cut bacon for this recipe.
1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheeseThe cheese helps to bind the meatballs together and adds a rich, creamy flavor. You can use any type of cheese you like, but I prefer to use a sharp cheddar for this recipe.
2 large eggsThe eggs help to bind the meatballs together and add moisture and richness to the dish. Be sure to use large eggs for this recipe, as they will provide the best results.
1/2 cup (60g) almond flourThe almond flour helps to add texture and structure to the meatballs, and is a great low-carb alternative to traditional flour. You can use any type of nut flour you like, but I prefer to use almond flour for this recipe.
1/2 teaspoon saltThe salt helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and adds depth and complexity to the dish. Be sure to use a high-quality salt for this recipe, as it will make a big difference in the final result.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperThe pepper helps to add a spicy kick to the meatballs and adds depth and complexity to the dish. Be sure to use a high-quality pepper for this recipe, as it will make a big difference in the final result.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powderThe garlic powder helps to add a rich, savory flavor to the meatballs and adds depth and complexity to the dish. Be sure to use a high-quality garlic powder for this recipe, as it will make a big difference in the final result.
1/4 teaspoon onion powderThe onion powder helps to add a sweet, savory flavor to the meatballs and adds depth and complexity to the dish. Be sure to use a high-quality onion powder for this recipe, as it will make a big difference in the final result.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsleyThe parsley helps to add a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the meatballs and adds a pop of color to the dish. Be sure to use fresh parsley for this recipe, as it will make a big difference in the final result.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large skillet or sauté panInstant-read thermometer Cutting boardChef's knifeMeatball scoop or small ice cream scoopBaking sheet lined with parchment paper

How to Make Breakfast Meatballs

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large skillet or sauté pan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it is crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3
Add the sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink and is cooked through.
4
Add the shredded cheese, almond flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the skillet and stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
5
Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet and stir until it is well combined with the sausage mixture.
6
Add the eggs to the skillet and stir until they are well combined with the sausage mixture.
7
Use a meatball scoop or small ice cream scoop to form the mixture into meatballs. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
8
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9
While the meatballs are baking, chop the fresh parsley and set it aside.
10
Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with the chopped parsley and your choice of sides.

Expert Tips

Be sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh parsley and real cheese, to get the best flavor out of your meatballs.
Don't overmix the meatball mixture, as this can make the meatballs dense and tough.
Use a thermometer to ensure that the meatballs are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the meatballs to stay moist.
Experiment with different types of sausage and cheese to find the combination that you like best.
Consider making a double batch of meatballs and freezing them for later use.
Serve the meatballs with a variety of sides, such as scrambled eggs, toast, or a breakfast burrito, to make a complete meal.
Use a meatball scoop or small ice cream scoop to form the meatballs, as this will help them to be uniform in size and shape.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the meatballs to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness.
Overmixing the meatball mixture, which can make the meatballs dense and tough.
Not letting the meatballs rest before serving, which can cause them to dry out.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the meatballs.
Not baking the meatballs at the right temperature, which can cause them to cook unevenly.
Not using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatballs.

Variations and Substitutions

Use different types of sausage, such as chorizo or breakfast sausage, to change up the flavor of the meatballs.
Add some diced veggies, such as bell peppers or onions, to the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, to change up the flavor of the meatballs.
Add some spice to the meatballs by using hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Use a combination of beef and pork to make the meatballs, for a more complex flavor.
Add some chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the meatball mixture for added flavor.
Use a flavored oil, such as garlic or herb-infused oil, to add extra flavor to the meatballs.

What to Serve With Breakfast Meatballs

These breakfast meatballs are perfect for serving with a variety of sides, such as scrambled eggs, toast, or a breakfast burrito. You can also serve them on their own, or with a side of hash browns or roasted vegetables.

Some other ideas for serving the meatballs include:

Adding them to a breakfast sandwich, along with some cheese and eggs.

Serving them with a side of salsa or hot sauce, for added flavor.

Using them as a topping for a breakfast salad, along with some greens and veggies.

Serving them with a side of fruit or yogurt, for a lighter option.

Scrambled eggsToastBreakfast burritoHash brownsRoasted vegetablesFruit or yogurt

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

These breakfast meatballs can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To store them in the fridge, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. To freeze them, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

To reheat the meatballs, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them.

It's also a good idea to label the container with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long they've been stored.

When reheating the meatballs, make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Simply cook them according to the recipe, then let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can use different types of sausage to change up the flavor of the meatballs. Some options include chorizo, breakfast sausage, or Italian sausage.

How do I know if the meatballs are cooked through?

You can check if the meatballs are cooked through by using a thermometer to check the internal temperature. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Can I add other ingredients to the meatball mixture?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the meatball mixture to change up the flavor and texture. Some options include diced veggies, chopped herbs, or grated cheese.

How do I store the meatballs?

You can store the meatballs in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Can I reheat the meatballs in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat the meatballs in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them. Simply place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.

Can I make these meatballs in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make these meatballs in a slow cooker. Simply cook them on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, or until cooked through.

How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?

To prevent the meatballs from drying out, make sure to not overcook them and to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. You can also add a little bit of oil or sauce to the meatballs to keep them moist.

The Full Recipe

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