These Greek meatballs are packed with flavor! Made with ground meat, herbs, and spices, they’re perfect for a tasty meal or snack. Plus, they’re usually served with a yummy yogurt sauce!
Whenever I make these, my kitchen smells like a Mediterranean paradise! They’re great with pita bread or over rice. Honestly, who can resist a meatball? They’re just so comforting! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I love using a mix of beef and lamb for the best flavor. Beef alone works too, and if you’re looking for leaner options, ground turkey or chicken makes a healthy alternative!
Breadcrumbs: I usually use plain breadcrumbs, but if you’re gluten-free, consider using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. They hold together well and add a nice texture.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill are essential for that Mediterranean vibe. If you don’t have dill, try mint for a different flavor twist! Dried herbs can work too, just use a bit less.
Egg: This acts as a binder. If you’re avoiding eggs, a flaxseed meal (1 tbsp mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) can do the trick too!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping your meatballs moist is key! Here’s how:
- Don’t overmix the meat. Combine the ingredients gently so they stay light and tender.
- Shape them quickly and evenly for even cooking. Size matters—aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Cook in batches rather than crowding the pan. This helps them brown nicely instead of steaming.
- If you have a little meat mixture left, cook a small patty first to taste the seasoning. Adjust if needed!
Cooking them in olive oil brings out great flavor! Remember to keep the heat medium to avoid burning while ensuring they’re cooked through.
How to Make Delicious Greek Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt, to taste
To Garnish:
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced red onion
- Extra chopped fresh parsley and dill
- Olive oil drizzle
- Crumbled feta (optional)
- Paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious Greek meatballs in roughly 40-45 minutes. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, egg, and season with salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
With your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. This size helps them cook evenly!
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and keep warm.
4. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
While the meatballs are cooking, mix the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until well combined and set aside.
5. Serve the Meatballs:
To serve, spoon some of the delicious yogurt sauce onto a plate or shallow bowl. Top with the warm meatballs.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish the platter with halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onions, and sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top. Drizzle with olive oil and add crumbled feta or paprika if desired.
7. Pair It Up:
Serve these meatballs with warm pita bread or over rice for a complete meal. Enjoy your delightful Greek meatballs full of flavor!
Dig in and enjoy the deliciousness and the delightful aromas of your Greek meatballs! 🌿🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute that still offers fantastic flavor. Just keep in mind that turkey may need a little more seasoning due to its milder taste, so you can add a pinch more of your favorite herbs and spices if desired.
How Do I Store Leftover Greek Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage—just make sure to cool them completely before freezing! Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make the Meatball Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready, shape and cook them according to the recipe. This makes dinner prep a breeze!
What Can I Serve With Greek Meatballs?
These meatballs go well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with warm pita bread, rice, a fresh salad, or even over pasta. They’re versatile and perfect for any meal!