These Greek meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor! Made with ground meat, fresh herbs, and a hint of spices, they’re perfect for any meal.
I love serving them with a side of tangy yogurt sauce and some warm pita bread. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this tasty treat! 😊
Making these meatballs is a breeze! Just mix, shape, and bake or fry them. It’s a simple way to enjoy a delicious dish that brings a taste of Greece to your table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: You can use a mix of beef and lamb for richer flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken works well too. Just keep the seasoning in mind as poultry can be milder.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill are key for that authentic Greek taste. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried versions can work—just use about one-third of the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
Feta Cheese: Adding feta inside the meatballs gives extra creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a vegan feta or simply leave it out. The meatballs will still be tasty!
Greek Yogurt: For tzatziki, Greek yogurt is thick and tangy. If you don’t have it, plain yogurt works as a substitute. For a lighter version, you could also use sour cream.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are ideal for tzatziki because they have less water. If you only have regular cucumbers, just squeeze out extra moisture after grating them.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Juicy Meatballs?
The key to juicy meatballs is a careful mix of ingredients. When combining your meat with herbs and spices, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense meatballs. Shape them lightly, and they will maintain their tender texture.
- Keep meatballs about 1½ inches, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Fry in batches, not overcrowding the pan to maintain temperature.
- Cooking them until browned on the outside will lock in moisture and flavor.
Cooking on medium heat allows for the outside to develop a lovely crust while the inside stays juicy. If you’re worried about them cooking through, you can finish them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
How to Make Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) with Tzatziki and Pita
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for added flavor inside the meatballs)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, finely grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh dill sprigs
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced red onion
- Warm pita bread
- Olive oil drizzle
- Optional sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook. Plus, don’t forget to add time for chilling the tzatziki sauce while you prepare the meatballs. In total, you can have this meal ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and set it in the refrigerator while you make the meatballs. This will let the flavors meld and make a refreshing sauce.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, breadcrumbs, egg, and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Season this mixture generously with salt and pepper.
3. Combine the Mixture:
Using your hands or a spoon, mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough. You want them to be tender and juicy!
4. Shape the Meatballs:
Take portions of the mixture and shape it into small meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter. Try to keep them all uniform in size for even cooking.
5. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. If they’re too close together, they won’t brown properly.
6. Fry Until Golden:
Fry the meatballs, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. This should take about 8-10 minutes total. They should be nice and crispy on the outside!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, carefully remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them crisp and not greasy.
8. Assemble Your Plate:
To serve, spread a generous layer of the tzatziki sauce on a serving plate. Then, arrange the warm meatballs on top of the tzatziki. Watch those colors and textures come together!
9. Garnish:
Sprinkle your meatballs with fresh dill sprigs, crumbled feta, sliced cucumber, and red onions. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika adds a nice finishing touch.
10. Enjoy!
Serve with warm pita bread on the side. Enjoy your flavorful Greek meatballs with all the delicious toppings and dipping sauces you’ve prepared!
This dish is a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors with juicy herb-infused meatballs, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lower-fat alternative. Just be aware that it may result in a slightly milder flavor, so consider adding extra herbs and spices to enhance the taste.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you want to freeze them, place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Tzatziki?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt or sour cream. For a dairy-free option, consider using a thick coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
How Do I Make the Meatballs Crispy?
To achieve crispy meatballs, ensure your oil is hot before adding them to the pan, and avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows them to brown nicely. You can also bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for around 20 minutes, turning halfway, for a healthier option with a crispy texture.