These Greek meatballs are packed with flavor! Made with ground meat, herbs like oregano, and a hint of garlic, they’re juicy and delicious. Perfect for a quick meal or a fun appetizer!
When I make these meatballs, I can’t resist pairing them with some tzatziki sauce. It’s like a mini party in my mouth! 🥳 You can easily serve them over rice or in a wrap for extra yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef/Lamb: The main meat can be beef or a blend of beef and lamb for deeper flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey works well too, though it may lack some juiciness.
Onion and Garlic: These ingredients add depth to the meatballs. Sweet onions are a great choice. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can substitute, just use less (about 1/4 tsp).
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill give a bright flavor. If you don’t have dill, try substituting with dried thyme or even mint! Experimenting here can lead to unique flavors.
Breadcrumbs: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice cakes. Just soak them the same way in milk for moisture.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Tender?
A key to moist meatballs is avoiding overmixing them. Combine ingredients just until mixed. Start with tender hands and shape them gently without packing too tightly to keep air in for tenderness.
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk for moisture; this is vital!
- Add an egg for binding, which helps hold the meatballs together without being dense.
- Cook them in batches, keeping the skillet hot, so they sear nicely without drying out.
Letting the meatballs rest after cooking can help redistribute juices, too! Enjoy these tips to make your Greek meatballs an absolute hit!
Greek Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For Serving:
- Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce
- Fresh dill for garnish
- Crumble feta cheese
- Pita bread or grilled flatbread
- Greek salad: cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, red onions, mixed greens, and olives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 20-25 minutes for cooking, making a total of around 40-45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be enjoying these delicious meatballs in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk in a small bowl. Let them sit for about 5 minutes until they’re soft. This will help keep your meatballs moist and flavorful.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, optional dill, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently with your hands or a spoon, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Once combined, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1.5 inches (4 cm) in diameter. You can wet your hands with a little water to help prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are nicely browned on all sides and cooked through.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels if needed. Serve the meatballs with a side of tzatziki or Greek yogurt sauce, a sprinkle of fresh dill, and crumbled feta on top.
6. Complete the Meal:
Pair your Greek meatballs with warm pita bread and a fresh Greek salad filled with cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, red onions, mixed greens, and olives for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Enjoy your delightful Greek meatballs, perfectly complemented by the cool and creamy sauce, fresh vegetables, and warm pita. It’s like a taste of the Mediterranean on your plate!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey might be a bit drier, so be sure to keep an eye on cooking time. Adding a little extra moisture through the breadcrumbs and milk will help!
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free Greek meatballs, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs. They’ll mix in just as well and keep the moisture intact!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container—perfect for quick meals later!
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture up to a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This can help the flavors meld together even more!
