Greek cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and simple yet delicious dishes. One such classic is Greek meatballs, also known as keftedes. These meatballs are juicy, aromatic, and packed with Mediterranean flavors, making them a must-try recipe for any food lover. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a mezze platter, these meatballs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Fresh herbs, garlic, and warm spices elevate these meatballs to the next level.
- Versatile Dish: Serve as an appetizer, in a pita wrap, over rice, or with a side of tzatziki.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.
- Healthy and Protein-Rich: Made with lean meat and herbs, these meatballs are nutritious and filling.
Ingredients
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion
- Garlic
- Fresh parsley
- Fresh mint
- Dried oregano
- Ground cumin
- Ground cinnamon
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Lemon zest
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion, garlic, parsley, and mint. Zest the lemon and set aside.
- Mix the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, breadcrumbs, egg, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined but avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides and sauces.
Variations
- Use Different Meats: Swap beef or lamb with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Baked Version: Instead of pan-frying, bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Add Feta Cheese: Incorporate crumbled feta into the meat mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
FAQs
How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?
Using an egg and breadcrumbs helps bind the mixture together. Also, avoid over-mixing the meat.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance or freeze shaped meatballs before cooking.
What should I serve with Greek meatballs?
They pair well with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, rice, or a Greek salad.
Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, baking at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes is a great alternative.
Are Greek meatballs spicy?
No, they are seasoned with herbs and warm spices but not spicy. You can add heat if desired.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh herbs provide the best flavor. Use half the amount if using dried.
How do I ensure tender meatballs?
Using breadcrumbs and not overmixing the meat helps keep them tender.
What’s the best meat for Greek meatballs?
Traditionally, lamb or a mix of lamb and beef is used, but beef, turkey, or chicken work too.
Can I cook these meatballs in sauce?
Yes! Simmer them in a tomato-based sauce for a delicious variation.
Do I need to rest the meatball mixture before cooking?
Letting the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes helps the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
Greek meatballs, or keftedes, are an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that fits any meal occasion. Whether served as a main dish, snack, or part of a mezze spread, their bold Mediterranean flavors will impress. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Greece to your table!
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Savory Greek Meatballs Recipe – Easy and Delicious!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
“Try these easy and flavorful Greek meatballs (keftedes) made with ground beef or lamb, fresh herbs, and warm spices. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or mezze platter favorite. Ready in just 25 minutes!”
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Finely chop the onion, garlic, parsley, and mint. Zest the lemon and set aside.
- Mix Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, breadcrumbs, egg, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches until browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain & Serve: Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with tzatziki, pita, or over rice.
Notes
- Alternative Cooking Method: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
- Customization: Add crumbled feta for extra flavor, or use ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: greek
Keywords: Greek meatballs, keftedes, Mediterranean recipe, easy meatball recipe, Greek cuisine
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