Greek meatballs are flavorful bites made with ground meat, herbs, and spices. They’re usually served with yummy tzatziki sauce for a cool and tasty dip!
These little gems are perfect for gatherings! I love making a big batch to share with friends—though I can’t promise there will be any leftovers! 😄
They’re easy to whip up and great with a side of pita bread or salad. Just roll, bake, and enjoy the tasty Mediterranean goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use a mix of ground beef and lamb for a richer flavor but you can also go fully beef or turkey for a lighter option. Keep in mind the fat content affects juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or even oat flour can work. History tells me some people like to use soaked white bread too; it gives a soft texture!
Greek Yogurt: For the tzatziki, Greek yogurt is a must for creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt in similar amounts.
Cucumber: You can substitute with zucchini if that’s what you have. The key is to squeeze out excess moisture to keep the tzatziki thick.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill make a world of difference, but if you’re in a pinch, dried versions also work. Just use a lesser amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Tender?
A common challenge is keeping meatballs moist. Here’s how to nail it:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk. This adds moisture to the meatballs!
- Mix the meat gently with your hands. Overworking can make them tough, so just mix until combined.
- Don’t skip the resting time! Letting the shaped meatballs sit for 10 minutes before cooking helps them hold together.
Cooking them at medium heat allows them to brown nicely without drying out. Baking works too, just be sure not to overcrowd them on the pan!
How to Make Delicious Greek Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and lamb)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for an authentic Greek touch)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
For The Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt to taste
Additional Toppings and Sides:
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
- Pita bread or flatbread, for serving
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire recipe takes about 40 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for cooking. You’ll be enjoying delicious Greek meatballs in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk in a small bowl for about 5 minutes until they’re soft. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, cinnamon (if using), salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix everything gently but thoroughly—remember not to overwork the mixture! Form it into meatballs that are about 1.5 inches in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through. If you prefer, you can also bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. Take your grated cucumber and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, squeezed grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, fresh dill, lemon juice, and salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
To serve, spoon a nice layer of tzatziki sauce into bowls. Place the cooked meatballs on top. Add additional toppings like sliced cucumbers, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and pickled red onions. Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley and serve with some pita bread or flatbread on the side.
5. Enjoy!
Dig in while everything is warm, and don’t forget to squeeze a little lemon over the meatballs for an extra zing!
Enjoy your delicious Greek Meatballs bowl, filled with vibrant Mediterranean flavors!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it can be a bit drier, so consider adding a little extra moisture, such as an additional tablespoon of milk or a small amount of olive oil.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare tzatziki sauce a day in advance! Just keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, but remember to stir it before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed.
What Can I Serve with Greek Meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with pita bread, a simple salad, or even over rice or quinoa. You might also enjoy them on their own with extra tzatziki for dipping!
