Greek Meatballs Recipe for All Occasions

Name: Delicious Greek Meatballs Recipe for All Occasions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying); Zest of 1 lemon

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

May 14, 2025

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The aroma of freshly baked Greek meatballs wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your teeth into these juicy orbs of flavor—seasoned with fragrant herbs and spices, they dance on your taste buds like a Greek Zorba at a festive celebration.

Every time I whip up a batch of these delectable Greek meatballs, I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen. You know the one—the cozy place where every meal is a feast and laughter fills the air. These delightful morsels are perfect for family gatherings or simply indulging yourself after a long day. Trust me; each bite will have you daydreaming about sun-soaked beaches and vibrant Mediterranean markets.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Greek meatballs are super easy to prepare—perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
Bursting with rich flavors from herbs and spices, they look fantastic on any table.
They can be enjoyed as appetizers, in wraps, or over pasta for versatility that suits all occasions.

When I first made these Greek meatballs for my friends, their eyes lit up with delight. They couldn’t get enough of them!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juiciness without excessive grease; it’s the foundation of your meatball masterpiece.
Fresh Parsley: Bright and aromatic; opt for vibrant green leaves to elevate the flavor profile.
Dried Oregano: A staple in Mediterranean cooking; this herb adds depth and warmth to your meatballs.
Onion: Finely chopped onions bring sweetness and moisture; they’re essential for flavor balance.
Garlic Cloves: Crush fresh cloves to infuse a zesty kick; garlic lovers rejoice!
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs as a binding agent; ensure they’re fresh for optimal texture.
Eggs: One egg helps bind everything together; choose organic if possible for better quality.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to taste preferences.
Olive Oil: For frying the meatballs; use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Lemon Zest: Adds brightness; don’t skip this—it elevates the dish from good to extraordinary!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onions and garlic—your kitchen should already smell divine! Gather all ingredients on your countertop for easy access.

Create the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, parsley, oregano, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep them tender.

Shape Your Meatballs: With slightly wet hands (to avoid sticking), form small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray while you heat up the oil.

Fry Them Up: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot (you can test it by dropping in a tiny piece), carefully add the meatballs in batches. Fry until golden brown on all sides—about 4-5 minutes per batch.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer fried meatballs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cooked through—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Now you have beautifully golden brown Greek meatballs ready to serve! Consider serving them with tzatziki sauce or atop fluffy rice or pasta.

These delightful spheres of joy will make your next gathering unforgettable! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about those warm memories filled with laughter around the dinner table.

You Must Know

Greek meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, bringing a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table.
They are juicy, fragrant, and perfect for any occasion.
Plus, they pair wonderfully with fresh tzatziki sauce or pita bread, making them a delightful crowd-pleaser.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve juicy Greek meatballs, start by mixing your ingredients thoroughly. Then, bake them at 400°F for about 20 minutes for perfectly cooked bites.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for lamb or turkey to create your own flavor profile. Adding feta cheese can also elevate your meatballs.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Greek meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, let the mixture sit for 30 minutes before cooking; it allows the spices to meld beautifully.
Always use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a vibrant taste.
Don’t skip browning the meatballs before baking; it adds depth and richness.

Sharing my first experience making Greek meatballs was unforgettable. My friends raved about them, and they didn’t last long on the table!

FAQ

What makes Greek meatballs different from regular meatballs?

Greek meatballs typically include herbs like oregano and mint for distinct Mediterranean flavor.

Can I freeze Greek meatballs for later use?

Yes, Greek meatballs freeze well! Just store them in an airtight container before freezing.

What can I serve with Greek meatballs?

Serve them with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or over a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

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