What ingredients do I need to make traditional Greek meatballs?

Traditional Greek meatballs, known as keftedes, typically require ground beef or a mix of beef and lamb, finely chopped onions, garlic, fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs soaked in milk or water. Some recipes include grated onion or a splash of red wine for extra flavor. Eggs are used as a binder. These simple ingredients come together to create juicy and flavorful meatballs with Mediterranean herbs that define the dish.

How do I keep Greek meatballs tender and avoid dryness?

To keep Greek meatballs tender, use a combination of beef and lamb or add some finely chopped onion and soaked breadcrumbs to maintain moisture. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can make the texture tough. Cooking them on medium heat, either by frying or baking, ensures even cooking without drying out. Adding an egg helps bind the ingredients and retain moisture during cooking.

What is the best way to cook Greek meatballs for authentic flavor?

Pan-frying Greek meatballs in olive oil over medium heat is the most common method, delivering a crispy exterior with a juicy inside. After frying, you can simmer them briefly in a tomato sauce with garlic and herbs for added richness and traditional taste. Alternatively, baking at 375°F (190°C) on a greased baking sheet can produce a healthier version with a similar texture.

Can Greek meatballs be frozen, and how should I reheat them?

Yes, Greek meatballs freeze well. Place uncooked or cooked meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a skillet with a little olive oil or in a tomato sauce on low heat until heated through. Avoid microwave reheating, which can dry them out.

What side dishes pair well with Greek meatballs?

Greek meatballs pair beautifully with sides like tzatziki sauce, rice pilaf, roasted potatoes brushed with olive oil and oregano, or a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Pita bread is also a great option for serving meatballs as a sandwich or wrap. These sides enhance the flavors and round out a traditional Greek meal.

Greek Meatballs: 5 Flavorful Herb & Spice Secrets Must Try

Name: Greek Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487583H46M28S
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: – 1 red onion, grated; – 500 g beef mince; – 200 g pork mince; – 2 garlic cloves, minced; – 1 cup (approximately 120 g) panko breadcrumbs; – 1 large egg; – 1/4 cup (approximately 15 g) fresh parsley, finely chopped; – 6 large mint leaves, finely chopped; – 1/2 tsp dried oregano; – 1 tbsp olive oil (for the mixture); – 3/4 tsp salt; – Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; – 1/2 cup (approximately 60 g) white flour, for dusting; – 3 tbsp olive oil, for pan-frying (or spray oil for baking); – Finely chopped parsley, for garnish; – Tzatziki or plain Greek yoghurt, for dipping

Description

🥩 These Greek meatballs combine beef, pork, fresh herbs, and spices for a juicy, aromatic bite.
🌿 Aromatic mint, parsley, and oregano give an authentic Mediterranean flavor that pairs perfectly with tzatziki.

Ingredients

– 1 red onion, grated

– 500 g beef mince

– 200 g pork mince

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 1 cup (approximately 120 g) panko breadcrumbs

– 1 large egg

– 1/4 cup (approximately 15 g) fresh parsley, finely chopped

– 6 large mint leaves, finely chopped

– 1/2 tsp dried oregano

– 1 tbsp olive oil (for the mixture)

– 3/4 tsp salt

– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– 1/2 cup (approximately 60 g) white flour, for dusting

– 3 tbsp olive oil, for pan-frying (or spray oil for baking)

– Finely chopped parsley, for garnish

– Tzatziki or plain Greek yoghurt, for dipping

Instructions

1-Gathering and Mixing the Ingredients: First, get all your ingredients lined up to make things breeze by. Finely chop or grate everything as needed think grated red onion, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. In a large bowl, combine the beef mince, pork mince, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, mint, oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix it all thoroughly with your hands until it’s uniform; it’s messy, but that’s where the fun begins!

2-Gathering and Mixing the Ingredients: Once mixed, you can cover and chill the mixture for about 1 hour if you have time this helps the meatballs hold their shape better. If you’re in a rush, skip this and move right along. Shaping the mixture into 32 to 35 balls, each about 45 g, is next aim for even sizes so they cook uniformly. For a Mediterranean-inspired stir-fry variation, you might adapt this step for quicker meals.

3-Cooking Methods for Juicy Results: Now for the cooking part, which is where the magic happens! Lightly coat each meatball in white flour, shaking off the excess to avoid a heavy crust. If pan-frying, heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the meatballs in batches for 5 to 6 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re browned and cooked through. Keep the finished ones warm while you handle the rest your kitchen will smell amazing!

4-Cooking Methods for Juicy Results: For a healthier twist, try the oven method: Preheat to 180°C (350°F), place the floured meatballs on a lightly oiled baking sheet, spray with a bit of oil, and bake for 20 minutes, turning once halfway. Either way, once done, arrange them on a platter, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with tzatziki or plain Greek yoghurt. Don’t forget, you can pair this with sides like a fresh salad for a full meal it’s that versatile!

Notes

❄️ Chill the mixture before shaping to keep the balls firm and easier to form.
🔥 For extra crispness, dust lightly with flour and fry in hot oil, or bake for a lighter version.
🥄 Freeze cooked or raw meatballs in portion‑size bags for quick meals; reheat straight from frozen.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes (pan‑fry) or 20 minutes (oven)
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pan‑Frying or Baking
Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4–5 meatballs (≈ 185 g)
Calories: 513

Keywords: Greek meatballs, fresh herbs, authentic spices, Greek appetizers