These Greek meatballs are packed with flavor from fresh herbs like parsley and mint, combined with tender ground meat. They are perfect for dipping in tangy tzatziki sauce.
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but sneak a few before serving! They’re so tasty and easy to whip up, you’ll want to make them all the time for family and friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Lamb or Beef: Both options add great flavor. I prefer a mix of lamb and beef for a balanced taste. If you’re not a fan of lamb, ground turkey or chicken can work too, just be aware they may need more seasoning to enhance flavors.
Bread Crumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs for the best results, but panko can give a nice crispy texture. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers can be good substitutes.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a lovely richness. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano is a good alternative. Nutritional yeast offers a dairy-free option for those who are vegan.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh flavor and color. You can swap it for fresh dill or mint if you’re looking for a different twist. Dried herbs can work in a pinch but fresh is always better.
Tzatziki Sauce: While optional, it pairs perfectly! If you’re in a rush, store-bought tzatziki is fine. A blended yogurt with cucumber and a bit of garlic can also be a quick homemade option.
How Do I Form Meatballs Without Making a Mess?
Shaping meatballs can feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! Use damp hands to prevent the meat from sticking to your fingers. Here’s a simple method:
- Grab a portion of the mixture, about the size of a golf ball.
- Lightly roll it between your palms gently.
- Repeat until all the mixture is formed into balls.
- Place them carefully in the skillet, leaving space between each one for even cooking.
This method keeps things tidy and helps your meatballs keep their shape while frying!
How to Make Delicious Greek Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef (or a mix)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Optional: Tzatziki sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 to 20 minutes to cook. Total, you’ll be looking at around 30 to 35 minutes to have your tasty Greek meatballs ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, dried oregano, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. It should feel a bit sticky but hold together nicely.
2. Preheating the Skillet:
Next, grab a skillet and place it on the stove over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet—enough to cover the bottom. Let it heat up while you shape the meatballs.
3. Shaping the Meatballs:
With damp hands (this helps prevent sticking), take a portion of the meat mixture and roll it into small balls, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Make sure to shape them evenly to cook them through at the same rate.
4. Cooking the Meatballs:
Carefully place the meatballs in the hot skillet, making sure to space them apart so they can brown. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and fully cooked through. You may need to do this in batches if your skillet is small.
5. Draining and Serving:
Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Feel free to keep them warm in a low oven if you’re making multiple batches.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Greek meatballs hot, and if you’d like, pair them with a side of Tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Lamb or Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for lamb or beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be milder, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning or herbs to enhance the taste.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers as an alternative!
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Meatballs?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden. This method is a great way to reduce the oil used.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
For any leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave, but if you want to keep them crispy, a quick pan fry is also a great option!
