Simple Homemade Greek Meatballs Recipe

If you have ever craved something flavorful, comforting, and utterly satisfying, then this Simple Homemade Greek Meatballs Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Juicy, tender meatballs bursting with fresh herbs like mint and parsley, combined with traditional Greek spices, bring an irresistible Mediterranean flair to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these meatballs are guaranteed to wow your guests and become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for this recipe are straightforward but essential, each playing its part to build rich flavor, perfect texture, and vibrant color. From fresh herbs to lean meat and aromatic spices, every element combines to create those mouthwatering Greek meatballs you’ll keep coming back to.

• 1 pound Ground Chicken or Turkey: Lean meats that serve as a tender and healthy base for your meatballs.
• 1 cup Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs add just the right structure and help keep the meatballs moist.
• 1/4 cup Parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley brings bright, herby notes and a pop of green color.
• 2 tablespoons Mint, chopped: Mint adds a surprising refreshing breath of flavor typical of Greek cuisine.
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped: Sautéed onion adds sweetness and moisture, keeping every bite juicy.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the meatballs with robust, savory depth.
• 1 large Egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything perfectly together.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor in the mix.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground for a touch of warmth and slight bite.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For that classic Mediterranean richness and frying flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: A traditional Greek herb that infuses the meatballs with authentic taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Adds subtle earthiness and complexity to the seasoning.

How to Make Simple Homemade Greek Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature to cook your meatballs evenly and get a beautiful golden crust without drying them out.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

In a skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft. This step is crucial because the softened onion melts into the meatballs, adding subtle sweetness and moisture.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic’s aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the soulful flavors that follow.

Step 4: Combine the Meat and Aromatics

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to a large bowl with the ground chicken or turkey. Mixing while the veggies are still warm will help the flavors meld beautifully with the meat.

Step 5: Add the Greens and Seasonings

Now add the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, chopped mint, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and ground cumin. Each of these ingredients adds its own layer of flavor and texture, turning ordinary meatballs into something truly special.

Step 6: Gently Mix the Ingredients

Use your hands or a spoon to gently combine the ingredients until just blended. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so be gentle and keep the mixture light.

Step 7: Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter — a perfect size for even cooking and bite-friendly portions. Lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup and flawless baking.

Step 8: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the meatballs. This step gives the finished meatballs a gorgeous golden color and adds extra moisture on the outside.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake the meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re cooked through and beautifully browned on the outside. The oven does the hard work here, giving you tender, juicy meatballs every time.

Step 10: Prepare Tzatziki Sauce

While your meatballs bake, whip up a quick tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. This cool, creamy sauce perfectly complements the herbs and spices in the meatballs.

Step 11: Rest the Meatballs

Once out of the oven, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the meatballs warm, alongside your homemade tzatziki sauce. Watching your family or friends savor this Simple Homemade Greek Meatballs Recipe will be pure joy.

How to Serve Simple Homemade Greek Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs elevate this dish, so a sprinkle of chopped parsley or mint on top adds color and brightness. For a touch of zest, a light drizzle of lemon juice brings out the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

These meatballs shine alongside fluffy couscous, warm pita bread, or a refreshing Greek salad loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Consider roasted vegetables for a hearty, wholesome meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your meatballs into party appetizers by skewering them with cherry tomatoes and olives or serve them over creamy polenta or rice for a comforting dinner plate. Stuff pita pockets with meatballs, tzatziki, and veggies for delicious wraps.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool them completely before sealing the container to keep them fresh and juicy.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months, making this Simple Homemade Greek Meatballs Recipe perfect for meal prep.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until hot through. Alternatively, gently microwave them covered to retain moisture, then serve with fresh tzatziki.

FAQs

Can I use beef instead of chicken or turkey?

Absolutely! Ground beef will give you a richer, more traditional meatball texture. Just keep in mind it may alter the calorie content and flavor profile slightly.

What if I don’t have fresh mint?

If fresh mint isn’t available, dried mint can be used but reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated. You could also substitute with additional parsley or fresh basil for a different twist.

Is it necessary to bake the meatballs, or can I fry them?

You can pan-fry these meatballs to get a crispy crust, but baking keeps them tender and healthier by using less oil. Either method works well depending on your preference.

Can I make the meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture remains wonderfully satisfying.

What’s a good beverage pairing with this dish?

For a true Greek experience, serve with a chilled glass of white wine like Assyrtiko or a light rosé. Sparkling water with lemon also pairs beautifully if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Homemade Greek Meatballs Recipe is a delightful mix of fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and lean meat, making it a perfect meal any day of the week. Once you try these juicy, flavorful meatballs, it’s hard not to fall in love with their bright, authentic taste. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen—you won’t regret it!

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