Keftedes (Greek Meatballs)
Tender, herby meatballs bursting with Mediterranean flavor, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Total: 35 minPrep: 15 minCook: 20 minServes 4Difficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (250+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Steps
- 1 In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, parsley, dill, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
- 2 Form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- 3 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 4 Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5 minutes per batch.
- 5 Transfer cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- 6 Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Skillet
Variations
- Add a splash of lemon juice to the meatballs for a zesty twist.
Substitutions
- If pork is unavailable, use all beef or a mix of beef and lamb.
Pairings
- Tzatziki sauce
- Red wine
Nutrition
Calories:
350 kcal
Fat:
22g fat
Carbs:
6g carbohydrates
Protein:
30g protein
Fiber:
1g fiber
Sugar:
2g sugar
Sodium:
350mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, soak the breadcrumbs in warm broth before mixing into the meat.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Freezing: Freeze meatballs on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh Greek salad and warm pita bread.
- Perfect alongside rice pilaf or roasted vegetables.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs up to a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Cook them when you're ready to serve.