Name: Savory Meatballs In Lemon Sauce (Greek Keftedes) You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 200 g Ground Pork (Contributes moisture and flavor); 400 g Lean Ground Beef (Provides structure and a hearty bite); 1 large Egg (Binds the mixture together); 100 g Crustless Bread (Ensures light and fluffy texture); 125 ml White Wine (Infuses flavor); 100 g Minced Onion (Adds sweetness and moisture); 4 cloves Minced Garlic (Essential for aroma and taste); 0.5 tsp Ground Cumin (Provides warmth and earthiness); 1 tsp Dried Oregano (A staple in Greek cuisine); 2 tsp Dried Parsley (Adds brightness); 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt (Elevates flavor); 0.5 tsp Ground Pepper (Offers subtle heat); 4 tbsp Butter (Creates a rich base); 4 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (Thickens the sauce); 2 cups Hot Water or Stock (The base of your sauce); 8-10 tbsp Lemon Juice (Provides acidity and brightness)

As I stood in my kitchen, the delicious aroma of garlic and herbs wafted through the air, transporting me straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Today, I’m thrilled to share my beloved recipe for Meatballs in Lemon Sauce, or Greek Keftedes. This dish marries fluffy, tender meatballs with a creamy, zesty lemon sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a family-friendly meal that feels like a gourmet experience. Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it also brings a taste of Mediterranean bliss into your home. Are you ready to discover how to create this delightful dish that everyone will rave about?

Why Are These Meatballs So Irresistible?

Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Flavor Explosion: The harmony of garlic, lemon, and herbs creates an unforgettable taste experience that will have your guests asking for seconds.

Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready, allowing you to spend more time with family or guests without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile Pairings: Serve these meatballs with roasted Greek potato wedges or a refreshing Greek salad for a complete meal that everyone loves.

Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy lemon sauce is a hit among both kids and adults, making it a reliable choice for family dinners or entertaining.

For more delicious Mediterranean dishes, check out these Meatballs Lemon Sauce and Air Fryer Lemon Chicken!

Meatballs In Lemon Sauce Ingredients

Discover the perfect blend of flavors with these Meatballs in Lemon Sauce!

For the Meatballs

Olive Oil – Cooking fat for searing; it adds richness to the dish.
Ground Pork (200g) – Contributes moisture and flavor; a must for juicy meatballs.
Lean Ground Beef (400g) – Provides structure and a hearty bite; lean cuts keep it healthy.
Large Egg (1) – Binds the mixture together, ensuring cohesive meatballs.
Crustless Bread (100g) – Ensures light and fluffy texture; can substitute with soaked breadcrumbs for ease.
White Wine (125ml) – Infuses flavor when soaking the bread; milk serves as a non-alcoholic alternative.
Minced Onion (100g) – Adds sweetness and moisture for flavor depth.
Minced Garlic (4 cloves) – Essential for that punchy aroma and taste; don’t skimp on this!
Ground Cumin (½ tsp) – Provides warmth and earthiness to complement the dish.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – A staple in Greek cuisine; fresh oregano can enhance flavor if available.
Dried Parsley (2 tsp) – Adds brightness; fresh parsley is equally delightful.
Fine Sea Salt (1 tsp) – Elevates flavor; remember to save some for the sauce.
Ground Pepper (½ tsp) – Offers subtle heat; adjust according to your taste preference.

For the Creamy Lemon Sauce

Butter (4 tbsp) – Creates a rich, flavorful base for the sauce; don’t skip this step!
All-Purpose Flour (4 tbsp) – Thickens the sauce beautifully; gluten-free flour works too!
Hot Water or Stock (2 cups) – The base of your sauce; stock adds irresistible depth of flavor.
Lemon Juice (8-10 tbsp) – Provides acidity and brightness; adjust to your personal taste preferences.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re just steps away from crafting delightful Meatballs in Lemon Sauce that will transport your taste buds to Greece!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Meatballs In Lemon Sauce (Greek Keftedes)

Step 1: Soak the Bread
Start by tearing crustless bread into small pieces, then place them in a bowl and pour in 125ml of white wine. Allow the bread to soak for about 5 minutes, ensuring it absorbs the liquid fully. This step will make your meatballs in lemon sauce extra fluffy and delicious!

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 200g of ground pork, 400g of lean ground beef, 1 large egg, and the soaked bread. Add in minced onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, dried parsley, fine sea salt, and ground pepper. Use your hands to knead the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Once the mixture is homogenous, divide it into approximately 15 equal portions, shaping each into an oval meatball weighing about 65-70 grams. Arrange the meatballs on a plate and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, ensuring they hold their shape during cooking.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs
Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Sear each side for about 4 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form. Avoid flipping until they are browned, as this helps maintain their structure.

Step 5: Drain the Meatballs
After achieving a nice sear, transfer the meatballs onto a plate lined with absorbent paper. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them light and ready to absorb the creamy lemon sauce that will follow.

Step 6: Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns sandy in color. This roux will thicken your sauce beautifully!

Step 7: Add Liquid to the Sauce
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of hot water or stock and the juice of 8-10 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Make sure to stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a rich, creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer gently for a couple of minutes.

Step 8: Simmer the Meatballs
Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they’re nestled into the creamy sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let them simmer for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and infused with the lemony goodness of the sauce.

Step 9: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a bit more salt or lemon juice if desired. Once you’re happy with the flavor, serve the meatballs warm, topping them with fresh ground pepper and a sprinkle of dried oregano for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your delightful Meatballs in Lemon Sauce!

Storage Tips for Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

Fridge: Store leftover meatballs in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re submerged in the creamy sauce to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze meatballs in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat the meatballs in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of stock or water if needed to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out.

Raw Mixture: If you’ve made a batch of raw meatball mixture, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months—just remember to shape and cook after thawing.

Expert Tips for Meatballs In Lemon Sauce

Searing Matters: Don’t rush the searing process; a good crust enhances flavor, making your Meatballs in Lemon Sauce truly delicious.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce before adding all the lemon juice; some prefer it more tangy, while others may like it milder.
Chill for Excellence: Refrigerate the shaped meatballs for at least an hour. This helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
Stock vs. Water: Using stock instead of plain water in your sauce adds an extra burst of flavor, enriching your Meatballs in Lemon Sauce.
Leftover Love: Leftover meatball mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months—great for meal prep!

What to Serve with Juicy Greek Keftedes in Creamy Lemon Sauce

Let your taste buds dance with vibrant flavors as you create a delightful meal to accompany your creamy lemon meatballs.

Roasted Greek Potato Wedges: Crisp and golden, these potatoes are infused with olive oil and herbs, providing a satisfying contrast to the tender meatballs. They soak up the zesty sauce beautifully, making every bite a true delight.
Prasorizo (Rice with Leeks): This subtly flavored rice dish, made with tender leeks and a touch of olive oil, pairs perfectly with the meatballs, adding a comforting base that complements the lemony sauce.
Spanakoryzo (Spinach Rice): A nutritious and flavorful mix of spinach and rice, this vibrant side brings a fresh and earthy balance to the rich meatballs, brightening your meal with every forkful.
Simple Greek Salad: Diced cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil create a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the creamy lemon sauce. This salad is both colorful and invigorating, perfect for summer nights.
Tzatziki Sauce: This cooling yogurt dip, infused with cucumber and garlic, acts as a refreshing contrast to the meatballs’ warmth. Scoop it up with fresh pita bread for an extra layer of flavor.
Wine Pairing (Dry White Wine): A light, crisp white wine like Assyrtiko complements the zesty lemon flavors beautifully while enhancing the overall dining experience.

Elevate your dinner table and make your meal unforgettable by pairing these delightful dishes with your Meatballs in Lemon Sauce!

Meatballs In Lemon Sauce Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this recipe truly your own—these variations will inspire exciting new flavors!

Lamb Option: Swap ground pork for ground lamb for a more traditional Greek taste that brings bold flavors to life.
Zucchini Twist: Replace crustless bread with shredded zucchini for a low-carb option that still keeps the meatballs moist and delicious.
Eggplant Delight: For a unique twist, try using finely diced eggplant instead of bread, adding an earthy richness to the meatballs.
Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra freshness, which brightens the whole dish and enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
Cheesy Addition: Incorporate a handful of grated feta cheese into the meatball mixture for a creamy, salty surprise inside each bite.
Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes or crushed chili in the meatball mixture for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. Adjust to your preferred spice level!
Citrus Zest: Add a touch of grated lemon zest to the sauce or meatball mixture to deepen that citrus flavor—perfect for lemon lovers.

For more inspiration, consider serving these meatballs alongside roasted Greek potato wedges or a refreshing Greek salad for a complete meal. If you’re seeking other delightful lemon-infused recipes, don’t forget to explore my favorites like Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce or Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto!

Make Ahead Options

These Meatballs in Lemon Sauce (Greek Keftedes) are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the meatball mixture up to 3 days in advance, storing it tightly covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. For longer storage, shape the meatballs and freeze them for up to 2 months; just thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking. Additionally, the creamy lemon sauce can be made and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; reheat gently on the stove before adding the meatballs to keep the sauce just as delicious. When ready to serve, simply sear and simmer the frozen meatballs in the sauce, ensuring a delightful, homemade meal with minimal effort!

Meatballs in Lemon Sauce (Greek Keftedes) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ground meat for my meatballs?
Absolutely! For the perfect Meatballs in Lemon Sauce, I recommend using a combination of ground pork and lean ground beef. This mix ensures a balance of moisture and structure. Look for fresh, pink meat without dark spots, and avoid anything that appears overly fatty.

How can I store leftover meatballs?
Very simple! You can store your leftover meatballs in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Making sure they’re submerged in the creamy lemon sauce will help maintain their moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just gently reheat in a skillet over low heat.

Can I freeze the meatball mixture before cooking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the raw meatball mixture for up to 2 months. Just shape them into meatballs, place in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll be ready for you later. When you’re set to cook, just thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with your cooking as guided in the recipe!

What if my meatballs are falling apart during cooking?
No worries, this is common! To prevent your Meatballs in Lemon Sauce from falling apart, ensure that you let them chill in the fridge for at least an hour before cooking. Additionally, when searing, avoid flipping them too soon—allow them to form a nice crust first! If the mixture still feels too loose, adding a little more soaked bread or an extra egg can help with binding.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your Meatballs in Lemon Sauce gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also replace crustless bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even cook them without any bread at all by using shredded zucchini or eggplant for a lower-carb option!

Is this dish okay for my pet dog?
While the ingredients in this recipe are quite wholesome, it’s best not to feed your dog any marinaded meat with lemon and garlic present, as these can be harmful to pets. If you want your furry friend to enjoy something similar, you can cook plain meatballs with just meat and minimal seasoning to keep them happy!