These Greek meatballs are bursting with flavor! Made with tasty ground meat, fresh herbs, and a touch of spices, they are juicy and delicious. Perfect for dipping or adding to a meal!
When I make these, I can’t resist enjoying them with a side of tzatziki sauce. They’re so good; you’ll want to make a double batch—trust me! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Lamb: This meat not only gives a rich flavor but also keeps the meatballs juicy. If you’re not a fan of lamb, try ground beef or turkey instead. Just note that turkey may yield drier meatballs, so adding a bit more fat can help.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs. If you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for the same texture.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness. If you don’t have any, swap with cilantro or mint for a different flavor twist.
Spices: Oregano and cumin give authenticity to the dish. Ground coriander can be an excellent alternative to cumin, while cinnamon adds warmth; if you don’t love it, feel free to skip it!
How Do I Shape Meatballs Without Making a Mess?
Shaping meatballs can be messy, but it’s easier with a few simple steps! First, keep your hands slightly wet — this helps prevent sticking.
- Use a small scoop or your hands to grab a golf ball-sized amount of mix.
- Gently roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball.
- Don’t overwork them; all you need is a few gentle rolls.
This method keeps your meatballs tender and ensures they cook evenly!
How to Make Greek Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or a mix of lamb and beef)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Greek yogurt or a creamy dip like tzatziki
- Diced cucumber and a drizzle of olive oil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 40 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb (or beef), breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, grated onion, egg, oregano, cumin, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything is evenly blended, making sure not to overmix. We want tender meatballs, not tough ones!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for a uniform size so they cook evenly. You can keep your hands damp to avoid sticking!
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches, giving them enough space to brown. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning the meatballs gently to brown them on all sides and ensure they are cooked through.
4. Drain and Garnish:
Once browned, place the meatballs on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil briefly. Then, serve them on a bed of Greek yogurt or tzatziki, garnished with chopped parsley or dill, some diced cucumber, and a light drizzle of olive oil. Don’t forget the lemon wedges for squeezing!
5. Enjoy!
These Greek meatballs are perfect for dipping, enjoying alongside warm pita bread, or as part of a fresh salad. They’re flavorful, herby, and sure to be a hit!
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious Greek meatballs! 🇬🇷
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Lamb?
Absolutely! While ground lamb is traditional for Greek meatballs, mixing in ground beef works just as well. Just be mindful that beef may be slightly less flavorful, so consider adding a touch more seasoning if you choose this option.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. They will still hold together nicely and taste delicious!
Can I Freeze Meatballs for Later Use?
Yes, you can! After cooking, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Greek Meatballs?
These meatballs are fantastic served with a side of tzatziki or Greek yogurt for dipping. You can also serve them on a platter with pita bread, a fresh salad, or even over pasta for a heartier meal. Add some lemon wedges for an extra zing!
