Greek cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, aromatic herbs, and deliciously satisfying dishes. One such delight is Greek meatballs, also known as Keftedes. These savory, juicy meatballs are infused with Mediterranean spices, making them an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a mezze platter, this Greek meatball recipe is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love These Greek Meatballs
- Packed with Flavor – A blend of garlic, oregano, and mint enhances the rich, juicy texture.
- Versatile – Serve them as a snack, with pita, or over a Greek salad.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this is a stress-free recipe.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick and tasty meal anytime!
Ingredients for Authentic Greek Meatballs
To make these delicious Greek Keftedes, you’ll need:
Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or lamb for extra authenticity)
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (adds juiciness)
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (or 1 tsp dried mint)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg (helps bind the mixture)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp milk (for tenderness)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Frying:
- 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Serving Suggestions:
- Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce
- Lemon wedges
- Warm pita bread
- Greek salad or rice pilaf
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Greek Meatballs
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, mint, cumin, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
2. Bind the Ingredients
Beat the egg and mix it into the meat mixture. Add breadcrumbs, milk, and olive oil. Using your hands, knead everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help the flavors meld and the mixture firm up.
3. Shape the Meatballs
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into evenly-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter). Lightly dust each meatball with flour to help create a crispy crust when frying.
4. Fry the Meatballs
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per batch). Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the keftedes on a platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with a side of tzatziki, lemon wedges, and warm pita bread. Enjoy these flavorful Greek meatballs as part of a mezze spread or as a hearty main dish!
Baking Option (Healthier Alternative)
For a lighter version, you can bake the meatballs instead of frying:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Arrange the meatballs on the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips for the Best Greek Meatballs
- Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh mint and parsley add authentic Greek flavors.
- Grate the Onion – This ensures moisture and even distribution of flavor.
- Chill the Mixture – Letting it rest makes it easier to shape and enhances taste.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat – Gently mix for a tender texture.
- Serve with Tzatziki – This cool, garlicky yogurt sauce perfectly complements the keftedes.
What to Serve with Greek Meatballs
Greek meatballs are incredibly versatile and pair well with many Mediterranean dishes:
- Tzatziki Sauce – A creamy yogurt-based dip with cucumber and garlic.
- Hummus and Pita – Classic Greek accompaniments.
- Greek Salad – A fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.
- Lemon Rice Pilaf – A zesty, fluffy side dish.
- Roasted Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant make a perfect pairing.
How to Store and Reheat Greek Meatballs
Refrigeration:
- Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Freezing:
- Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
- To cook from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These delicious Greek meatballs are the perfect dish for any occasion! Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a mezze platter, they’re guaranteed to bring Mediterranean flavor to your table. Try this recipe today and enjoy the authentic taste of Greece!
Why You’ll Love These Greek Meatballs
- Packed with Flavor – A blend of garlic, oregano, and mint enhances the rich, juicy texture.
- Versatile – Serve them as a snack, with pita, or over a Greek salad.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this is a stress-free recipe.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick and tasty meal anytime!
Ingredients for Authentic Greek Meatballs
To make these delicious Greek Keftedes, you’ll need:
Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or lamb for extra authenticity)
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (adds juiciness)
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (or 1 tsp dried mint)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg (helps bind the mixture)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp milk (for tenderness)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Frying:
- 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Serving Suggestions:
- Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce
- Lemon wedges
- Warm pita bread
- Greek salad or rice pilaf
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Greek Meatballs
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, mint, cumin, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
2. Bind the Ingredients
Beat the egg and mix it into the meat mixture. Add breadcrumbs, milk, and olive oil. Using your hands, knead everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help the flavors meld and the mixture firm up.
3. Shape the Meatballs
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into evenly-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter). Lightly dust each meatball with flour to help create a crispy crust when frying.
4. Fry the Meatballs
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per batch). Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the keftedes on a platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with a side of tzatziki, lemon wedges, and warm pita bread. Enjoy these flavorful Greek meatballs as part of a mezze spread or as a hearty main dish!
Baking Option (Healthier Alternative)
For a lighter version, you can bake the meatballs instead of frying:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Arrange the meatballs on the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips for the Best Greek Meatballs
- Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh mint and parsley add authentic Greek flavors.
- Grate the Onion – This ensures moisture and even distribution of flavor.
- Chill the Mixture – Letting it rest makes it easier to shape and enhances taste.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat – Gently mix for a tender texture.
- Serve with Tzatziki – This cool, garlicky yogurt sauce perfectly complements the keftedes.
What to Serve with Greek Meatballs
Greek meatballs are incredibly versatile and pair well with many Mediterranean dishes:
- Tzatziki Sauce – A creamy yogurt-based dip with cucumber and garlic.
- Hummus and Pita – Classic Greek accompaniments.
- Greek Salad – A fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.
- Lemon Rice Pilaf – A zesty, fluffy side dish.
- Roasted Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant make a perfect pairing.
How to Store and Reheat Greek Meatballs
Refrigeration:
- Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Freezing:
- Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
- To cook from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These delicious Greek meatballs are the perfect dish for any occasion! Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a mezze platter, they’re guaranteed to bring Mediterranean flavor to your table. Try this recipe today and enjoy the authentic taste of Greece!