Juicy, herby, oven-baked
These Greek meatballs with feta are a cozy, flavorful dinner that feels special yet easy enough for busy weeknights. Baked until juicy and golden, they’re packed with lemon, oregano, garlic, and creamy feta for that classic Greek taste. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or entertaining, this recipe comes together quickly and pairs beautifully with tzatziki, salads, or warm pita bread.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Cook: 20 mins
- Total: 30 mins
- Servings: 30 meatballs
Ingredients
- 8 oz ground beef chuck (80/20)
- 8 oz ground turkey (pork substitute)
- 1 medium sweet onion, grated
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, finely crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Kitchen Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Box grater
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix: Add all ingredients to a large bowl and gently combine until just mixed.
- Shape: Scoop and roll into 30 even meatballs. Lightly oil hands if needed.
- Bake: Bake 20–25 minutes until cooked through (160°F internal).
- Rest: Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Make Ahead: Roll meatballs and refrigerate uncooked up to 24 hours.
- Serving: Serve with tzatziki, lemon rice, or Greek salad.
- Texture: Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
Main Body
Greek meatballs stand out thanks to their balance of fresh herbs, citrus, and savory meat. The feta melts slightly as they bake, creating pockets of salty creaminess that keep every bite moist and flavorful.
Baking instead of frying makes this recipe lighter and less messy, while still delivering a golden exterior. The key is using parchment paper and spacing the meatballs so heat circulates evenly.
Lemon zest and oregano are essential here they brighten the rich beef and turkey mixture and give the meatballs their unmistakable Mediterranean character.
These meatballs fit perfectly into a weeknight routine. While they bake, you can prep a quick salad or warm pita, making dinner feel complete without extra stress.
Variation Recipes
- Chicken Greek Meatballs: Use all ground chicken for a lighter option.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
- Herb Swap: Mix in fresh dill or mint for extra freshness.
Conclusion
These Greek meatballs are simple, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Save this recipe for busy nights, meal prep days, or anytime you’re craving comforting Mediterranean flavors.
Nutrition (Estimated)
| Serving | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 meatballs | 420 | 24g | 28g | 22g |