The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

Why Make This Recipe

These Greek meatballs in lemon sauce are perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful dish. The meatballs are soft, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a family favorite. The lemon sauce adds a bright, tangy twist that elevates the dish to another level. It’s a great choice for dinner parties or weeknight meals, and it’s easy to prepare. Plus, the ingredients are simple and inexpensive, which makes this recipe both tasty and budget-friendly.

How to Make The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Combine the grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and milk in a bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground meat, egg, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs using damp hands.
4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet and sear the meatballs on all sides until browned.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and let the meatballs simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice. Temper the mixture with hot broth from the pan.
7. Slowly stir the egg-lemon mixture back into the pan over low heat. Be careful not to boil it.
8. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens slightly. Use cornstarch if needed for extra thickness.
9. Season to taste with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley or lemon zest, and serve hot.

How to Serve The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

These meatballs are delicious served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the lemon sauce. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This dish pairs well with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor.

How to Store The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

To store any leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Tips to Make The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs really make a difference in this recipe.
• Don’t over-mix the meat while combining. This helps keep the meatballs tender.
• If you can’t find fresh parsley, dried parsley can be a substitute, but fresh is always better for flavor.
• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less cornstarch depending on your preference.

Variation

You can add other spices or herbs like mint or dill to give a different twist to the flavor. For a spicier version, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You may also experiment by using ground lamb instead of beef or pork for a more traditional Greek taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken! Just keep in mind that the meatballs may be a bit less moist, so adding a little more milk or breadcrumbs can help.

2. Is it necessary to use lemon juice?
Lemon juice is key to the flavor of the sauce, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with lime juice. However, the unique taste of lemon is what makes this dish special.

3. Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them uncooked for a day or two before cooking. This makes weeknight dinners much easier!