Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with Mediterranean flavors and feels like a warm hug from Greece, look no further than this Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe. These tender, herb-packed bites bring together the vibrant freshness of parsley and mint, the warm hint of cinnamon, and the savory heartiness of quality ground beef, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these meatballs are a versatile delight that will quickly become a family favorite or a show-stopping appetizer at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe is surprisingly simple, thanks to a handful of fresh and pantry staples that work beautifully together. Each ingredient plays an important role, from adding moisture to imparting delicate earthy and aromatic notes.

• Ground Beef: Choose a good quality ground beef for a juicy texture that forms the base of the meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs: Use fresh or dried breadcrumbs to help bind the meat without making the mixture dense.
• Fresh Parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, herbal freshness that lightens the meat’s richness.
• Fresh Mint, chopped: Provides a refreshing note, elevating the classic meatball flavor with a Greek twist.
• Onion, finely grated: Introduces subtle sweetness and moisture, keeping the meatballs tender.
• Garlic, minced: Essential for a punch of savory depth and aroma.
• Egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the mixture together perfectly.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
• Pepper: Freshly cracked for a bit of warm, subtle heat.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and complexity, an unexpected but delightful touch.
• Olive Oil: For frying, providing a lovely crispness and authentic Mediterranean flavor.

How to Make Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients

Start by giving your parsley and mint a fine chop so their flavors blend seamlessly throughout your meatballs. Grate the onion to release its natural sweetness and moisture, then mince the garlic finely to distribute that classic garlic punch evenly. This prep work is key to building the delicious foundation of the dish.

Step 2: Combine the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, bring together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, mint, grated onion, and garlic. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every bite includes a vibrant burst of herbs, perfectly balanced with savory beef and moisture from the onion and garlic.

Step 3: Add the Binders and Spices

Next, crack in the egg and sprinkle the salt, pepper, and cinnamon over the mixture. Now’s the time to blend everything thoroughly, allowing the egg to do its job binding the ingredients while the cinnamon adds that subtle yet delightful complexity that makes the Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe so unique.

Step 4: Chill for Flavors to Meld

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step lets the flavors marry and helps the mixture firm up so your meatballs hold their shape during cooking.

Step 5: Shape the Meatballs

Once chilled, roll the mixture into small balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them neatly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to keep things tidy and ready for frying.

Step 6: Heat the Olive Oil

Warm a generous amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Olive oil not only fries the meatballs beautifully but also adds that signature Mediterranean flavor that makes this Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe truly special.

Step 7: Fry the Meatballs

Add the meatballs to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, turning gently, until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. That crisp exterior contrasts wonderfully with the juicy inside.

Step 8: Drain Excess Oil

Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. This keeps them light and ready to serve.

Step 9: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Your Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe is now ready to shine on your table! Serve them warm alongside traditional tzatziki sauce, fluffy pita bread, and a bright Greek salad to create a feast that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.

How to Serve Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or mint sprinkled on top adds that inviting burst of green and an extra herbal lift. A drizzle of lemon juice or a dollop of creamy tzatziki enhances the flavors and brings coolness to balance the richness of the meatballs.

Side Dishes

For a classic Greek spread, serve the meatballs with pita bread for scooping and a crisp Greek salad full of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onions. Roasted or grilled vegetables and lemon potatoes make perfect hearty companions as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe into irresistible sliders by sandwiching them in mini pita pockets with tzatziki and crunchy veggies. Or serve them as a meze platter with hummus, olives, and fresh flatbread for a shareable appetizer experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these meatballs later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and defrost quickly when needed.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed meatballs gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to restore their crispy edges and warm the center without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if possible, to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?

Absolutely! Ground lamb or a mix of beef and pork can add delicious new dimensions to the Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe, offering slightly different textures and flavors.

What is the role of cinnamon in the recipe?

Cinnamon brings a subtle warmth and complexity that balances the savory and herbaceous notes, giving the meatballs an authentic Greek flavor profile that’s both surprising and comforting.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier option. Arrange the meatballs on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure you’re finely chopping and mixing all ingredients, using breadcrumbs and egg as binders, and chilling the mixture before shaping. Also, avoid moving the meatballs too much while frying to maintain their shape.

What dipping sauces pair best with these meatballs?

Tzatziki is the classic choice, but a lemony garlic yogurt sauce or even a simple tomato-based sauce can complement the savory herbs and spices beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough giving this Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe a try in your kitchen. It’s a dish that warms the soul with every bite and brings a wonderful Mediterranean flair to your table. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, these meatballs never fail to impress and satisfy. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll be hooked!

Print