Greek meatballs, or keftedes, are flavorful little bites made from ground meat, herbs, and spices, often served with a tasty dipping sauce. They’re crispy on the outside and juicy inside!
They’re great for sharing with friends or enjoying as a quick snack. I like to serve them with some warm pita and a side of tzatziki. They never last long on the table; everyone loves them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: A pound of ground beef gives a rich flavor. For a twist, mix it with ground lamb for a more traditional Greek taste. You can also use turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: Stale breadcrumbs are best because they absorb moisture without becoming mushy. If you don’t have stale ones, simply toast fresh bread and process it into crumbs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work well too!
Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, basil or cilantro could be fun alternatives. Dried parsley can work in a pinch, but you’ll need less—about 1 tablespoon.
Onion and Garlic: Both of these ingredients are crucial for depth of flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder is handy. For onion, shallots can be a nice substitute, offering a sweeter taste.
Spices: Oregano and cumin give these meatballs their Greek flair. You could try herbes de Provence as a substitute or even a dash of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
How Can You Ensure Your Meatballs Hold Together?
The secret to maintaining meatballs’ shape lies in the mixing method. When combining ingredients, mix them gently until just combined. Overmixing activates proteins, making meatballs tough. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a large bowl and your hands to fold everything together. It’s okay if it’s a bit loose.
- Be sure to form uniformly-sized meatballs for even cooking.
- Chill the formed meatballs for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
Whether you’re baking or frying, keep an eye on cooking times to avoid overcooking. Happy cooking!
How to Make Delicious Greek Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably stale)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Olive oil, for cooking
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges (optional)
- Tzatziki sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes of prep time to mix and shape the meatballs, plus an additional 20-25 minutes for baking or 8-10 minutes for pan-frying. All in all, you can have these tasty Greek meatballs ready in under one hour. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
If you’re baking the meatballs, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help cook them evenly and give them a nice brown color.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Lastly, add the beaten egg. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form Meatballs:
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch meatballs. Place each meatball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure there’s space between each one.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
You have two options for cooking:
- Baking: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
- Frying: Alternatively, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to brown all sides evenly. You can do this in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough.
5. Serve:
Once the meatballs are cooked, take them out of the oven or skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges, and don’t forget a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping! Enjoy your delicious Greek meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef or lamb for a leaner option. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly milder, so you might want to add a touch more seasoning to enhance the taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container and they’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Mixture?
Yes! Finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition. Just keep in mind that adding too much moisture can affect the texture, so consider squeezing out excess liquid if necessary.
What Should I Serve With Greek Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious served with tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges, and a side of pita bread or a fresh salad. You could also serve them over rice or with a warm Greek orzo salad for a complete meal!
