In a food processor or blender, add the basil and garlic. Turn on low speed and blend until finely chopped, 15 to 20 seconds. Add the cashews and lemon zest and blend until cashews are finely chopped and the mixture has a crumbly, dough-like consistency.
Transfer the cashew-basil mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the bacon, ground beef, ground pork, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, eggs, and arrowroot flour. Using clean hands, mix the meat until well combined.
Coat the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Use an ice cream scoop to gather and form a 2-inch round meatball. Place the meatball in baking dish and repeat with the remaining meat.
Transfer the dish to the oven and cook, uncovered, until the meatballs are browned, about 20 minutes.
Remove from oven and reduce the oven temperature to 325°F. Pour the marinara evenly over meatballs. Return the meatballs to the oven and continue to bake, uncovered, until the meatballs are tender and the sauce is hot and bubbly, about 45 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil. Serve as desired and enjoy!
Nutitrion
Serving Size: 1 g
Calories: 526 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 34 g
Fat: 37 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 163 mg
Sodium: 1461 mg
Sugar: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
Reviews
Melanie on 2026-04-11 (5 stars): Hands down the greatest meatball recipe I’ve ever made. I paired it with home made spicy marinara and spaghetti squash, and my friends and I had it for dinner one night during our yearly fall mountain trip to Telluride. Everyone had seconds. Some went back for a third plate. It’s SO. GOOD. Thank you for this perfect recipe! Home run 👏
Hayden on 2025-09-02 (5 stars): THESE ARE SO GOOD…. We make them once a week and they are absolutely my favorite dinner to cook. I would say it is an easy recipe to follow and consistently perfect outcome. Thank you for the epic recipe, Alex!
