Greek Lamb and Beef Meatballs: A Healthy and Hearty Recipe
Looking for a protein-packed, flavor-rich meal that’s healthy and deeply comforting? These Greek lamb and beef meatballs are it. They’re inspired by my Yiayia’s classic recipe from our village at the foot of Meteora — and a signature dish we once served at Kali’s Mezze in Baltimore.
Preserving Tradition, Flavor, and Health in Every Bite of these Greek Meatballs — Traditional Greek Village Meatballs Recipe.
The story behind my Greek Meatball Recipe:
Indulging in nostalgic memories of home-cooked meals is a joy my family holds dear. Specifically, the irresistible aroma and flavors of my yiayia's crispy, juicy, and herb-infused mini lamb and beef meatballs. The tantalizing blend of mint, oregano, feta, and meat caramelizing in a trusty cast iron pan is an experience that I can't help but reminisce about. Learning and assisting her in making these famous Greek meatballs is truly how my love of cooking was birthed. I miss her dearly, and I want to share her recipe for these wholesome and flavorful Greek village meatballs – a culinary tradition that deserves to be celebrated. Join me in preserving the legacy of this culinary legend!
why you’ll love this Healthy Greek Meatballs Recipe:
Discover the nutritional advantages of incorporating these meatballs into your diet. From lean protein to the antioxidant-rich herbs and spices, there's more to these Greek meatballs than meets the eye.
Gluten-free and dairy-free
Packed with parsley, mint, and oregano
Crispy exterior, juicy center
Great for meal prep and leftovers
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Detailed instructions for creating these wholesome and delicious mini lamb and beef meatballs, complete with expert tips for a balanced and flavorful meal. Before we dive into this delightful healthy recipe, let's gather the wholesome ingredients you'll need:
Ingredients:
1 red onion, grated
1 lb (500g) beef mince (ground beef) (or lamb!
6.5oz (200g) pork mince (ground pork), or more beef
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
6 large mint leaves, finely chopped (spearmint if you can, it's authentic)
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3/4 tsp salt
Black pepper
1/2 cup flour
3 tbsp olive oil
Orzo Pasta + Greek Salad
Step-by-step instructions — How to make the Greek Meatball Recipe:
Instructions on how to prepare and cook yiayia's mini lamb and beef meatballs, including step-by-step guidance and pro tips.
Grate the onion directly into a large bowl, then mix it with the remaining meatball ingredients.
Use your hands to thoroughly combine the ingredients for a few minutes, ensuring a smooth and well-blended mixture.
Consider an optional step: refrigerate the mixture for one hour, making it easier to shape the meatballs and helping them maintain their round shape during cooking.
Measure out heaped tablespoons of the mixture and place them on a work surface, yielding around 32 to 35 portions. Shape each into meatballs.
Heat most of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (or medium for a strong gas stove). Ensure the skillet's surface is well-covered with oil.
Cook the meatballs in 2 to 3 batches: lightly dredge them in flour, removing any excess, and then place them in the skillet.
Roll the meatballs around and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they achieve a delightful, even golden-brown color.
Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate, covering them to retain warmth, and repeat the process with the remaining meatballs.
Alternatively, for a healthier cooking method, generously spray the meatballs with olive oil and bake them at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes until they attain a lovely, browned appearance. Baking offers a lighter alternative to the traditional pan-frying method.
Tips for Success —
Use a cookie scoop for even sizes
Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months
Serve with Lemon or Yogurt-Based Sauce
What to Serve This With —
These flavorful keftedes are perfect for a mezze platter or weeknight dinner. Pair them with a dollop of creamy tzatziki, warm pita, or a side of lemon potatoes. For a full Greek-inspired spread, try my crispy zucchini fritters — they’re light, golden, and pair beautifully with the bold herbs in the meatballs.
Tzatziki sauce or hummus
Orzo Pasta
Greek Salad
Cooking Greek Food and keeping a Mediterranean diet:
These healthy Greek Meatballs are more than just a Mediterranean dish; they're a heartfelt homage to a culinary legend, My Yiayia: Kalliope Keramidas. As you prepare and savor them, remember the love, warmth, and tradition that accompany each bite. Yiayia's legacy lives on through these meatballs, and in sharing them, we're preserving not just a recipe but a piece of our hearts. Bon appétit!
Yiayia and me, 2008
Kalliope was the matriarch of my entire village in Greece. She was the women who raised me, taught me how to speak Greek, how to clean fresh village green beans, how to properly raise a garden with care, how to welcome everyone to the table - so welcome to the beginning of many of her timeless recipes!
Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) – Frequently Asked Questions
Can you freeze Greek meatballs?
Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat at 350°F until hot.
What is the best way to reheat keftedes?
Reheat in a skillet with olive oil or in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to keep them crispy.
What should I serve with Greek meatballs?
Serve with tzatziki, pita, lemon potatoes, or a zucchini fritter for a full Greek feast.
Are Greek meatballs gluten-free?
Traditionally no, but you can easily make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture or cook them in advance. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later.
Save, Share & Enjoy!
If you try this recipe at home, tag me on Instagram @AnastasiaMidas and i’ll repost it to my stories! I love seeing your creations — and dont forget to check back for more family Greek Blue Zone Recipes!