Greek Lamb Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek lamb meatballs—keftedes—are celebrated for their perfect balance of Mediterranean flavors: aromatic herbs like mint and parsley, zesty lemon, savory lamb, and binding breadcrumbs and egg. Whether broiled, baked, or pan-fried, they develop a golden exterior while remaining moist and flavorful inside. Paired with creamy tzatziki, they make an elegant appetizer or a satisfying main course.Wellness by Kay+13What’s Gaby Cooking+13Powell Family Cooking+13

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound ground lamb
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped or grated
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped mint (optional but traditional)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs or panko
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (optional)
• Optional: ¼ cup crumbled feta for extra richness

Tzatziki (for serving)

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cucumber, diced or grated
• 1‑2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ cup crumbled feta for a feta-style tzatzikiFoolproof Living+9What’s Gaby Cooking+9Veronika’s Kitchen+9Veronika’s Kitchen+2Love & Zest+2The Life Jolie+1Love & ZestCultured Guru • Enrich your ecosystem+1

directions

1. Preheat your cooking method:
   • Broiler method: Preheat broiler and position rack several inches below heat.Barley & Sage+14Veronika’s Kitchen+14andiemitchell.com+14
   • Oven bake: Preheat to 400–425 °F.aforkstale.com
   • Pan-fry: Heat a skillet over medium-high with a little olive oil.Powell Family Cooking+13Foolproof Living+13What’s Gaby Cooking+13
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb with onion, garlic, herbs, egg, breadcrumbs, spices, lemon zest, and optional feta. Mix gently—over-mixing can make the meatballs tough.What’s Gaby Cooking+1
3. Shape mixture into evenly sized meatballs (about 1½ tbsp each).
4. Cook according to your chosen method:
   • Broil: Arrange meatballs ~2 inches apart on a baking sheet. Broil for 5–7 minutes, turning once halfway.What’s Gaby Cooking
   • Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160 °F, optionally broiling for 2 minutes at the end for crispness.Foolproof Living
   • Pan-fry: Cook in batches for about 8–10 minutes, turning to brown evenly.Veronika’s Kitchen+8Foolproof Living+8Barley & Sage+8
5. Meanwhile, mix all tzatziki ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve warm meatballs with tzatziki, pita, rice, or salad.What’s Gaby Cooking+2The Life Jolie+2The Life Jolie+1

Servings and timing

• Servings: Serves approximately 4–6 people.What’s Gaby Cookingandiemitchell.com
• Timing:
  • Prep: ~20 minutes
  • Cooking: 5–12 minutes (depending on method)
  • Total: ~25–30 minutesCultured Guru • Enrich your ecosystem

storage/reheating

• Refrigeration: Store meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.The Life Jolie
• Freezing: Freeze cooked or shaped-then-fried meatballs for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.My Everyday Table
• Reheating: Warm gently in a 350 °F oven until heated through or reheat in a skillet. Add a splash of water and cover with foil if reheating in the oven to retain moisture.Silk Road Recipes

FAQs

1. What can I serve with lamb meatballs?

Traditional pairings include tzatziki, pita bread, rice, Greek salad, or lemon orzo.Foolproof Living+1

2. Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes—baking is a lighter option and still delivers a nice crust.Foolproof Living

3. Is there a binder alternative to breadcrumbs?

You can use soaked breadcrumbs, panko, or even fine oats. Egg helps bind regardless.The Bold Appetite

4. Can I make them ahead?

Yes—shape ahead and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking.The Life Jolie+2Allrecipes+2

5. How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?

Use adequate binder (egg + breadcrumbs), mix gently, and chill for a short time before shaping if mixture feels loose.The Life Jolie

6. What temperature denotes doneness?

They are done when internal temperature reaches 160 °F or juices run clear with no pink inside.The Life Jolie

7. Can I add feta inside the meatballs?

Yes, adding crumbled feta gives a delightful texture and flavor boost.My Greek Dish

8. Is lamb meatball healthy?

Yes—when balanced with herbs and yogurt-based tzatziki, lamb provides rich protein and nutrients—and Greek cuisine emphasizes moderation and fresh flavors.Eat the Gains+4What’s Gaby Cooking+4seriouseats.com+4

9. Are these meatballs gluten‑free?

Not by default. You can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.Eat the GainsBarley & Sage

10. What is “keftedes”?

“Keftedes” is the Greek term for fried or baked meatballs—often lamb—and usually served as a meze with tzatziki.My Greek Dish+5Veronika’s Kitchen+5Stephanie Kay Nutrition+5

Conclusion

These Greek lamb meatballs—or keftedes—are a delightful union of savory lamb, fresh herbs, and tangy lemon, all tied together with binding ingredients for a juicy, flavorful bite. They cook quickly, can be prepared ahead, and pair wonderfully with tzatziki, pita, and Mediterranean sides. Perfect for both casual dinners and entertaining, they bring a taste of Greece to your table with ease and elegance.

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