Name: Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: Cooking Spray; 1 Slice White Bread (Torn into 1-inch pieces, about 1/2 cup); 1/4 Cup Milk; 1 Egg (Beaten); 1/4 Cup Red Onion (Finely Chopped); 1 Garlic Clove (Minced); 2 Teaspoons Oregano; 1 Teaspoon Cumin; 1/2 Teaspoon Salt; 1 Pound Ground Beef; 1 Cup Crumbled Feta Cheese

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Last updated on December 24, 2025

It was one of those cozy Sunday afternoons, the kind where the sun dances through the kitchen window, casting a golden glow over everything. I was rummaging through my fridge, contemplating dinner, when I came across a half-used tub of feta cheese nestled between the yogurt and some leftover veggies. Suddenly, the memories of family picnics, where my grandmother would whip up her delicious Greek meatballs, hit me like a wave. Those meatballs, fragrant with herbs and stuffed with creamy feta, always felt like a warm hug on a plate. So, I thought, why not recreate that magic?

If you’re anything like me, the thought of cooking something that feels a bit fancy, like Greek meatballs, might stir up some fear in you. Perhaps you worry about the meatballs falling apart in the oven or you’re not sure how to handle the spices. Or maybe you just don’t know where to start! Don’t fret; this post is designed to make everything simple and stress-free. I’ll guide you step by step through this delicious recipe, even if it’s your very first time.

1. Why I Love This Recipe of Greek Meatballs

Greek meatballs hold a special place in my heart for a few reasons. First and foremost, they’re incredibly comforting. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the mix of herbs and the luscious bite of feta. They remind me of family gatherings—everyone sitting around the table, sharing stories and laughter.

For beginner cooks, this recipe is particularly forgiving. If you make a mistake, don’t sweat it! The beauty of meatballs is that they are quite adaptable, and you get to enjoy the process of creating something delicious. You don’t need to be a professional chef to get it right. Plus, the satisfaction of making meatballs from scratch, paired with a fresh, herby tzatziki, is genuinely rewarding.

And let’s not forget the emotional benefits! There’s something special about crafting food with your hands. It brings people together, fills your home with inviting aromas, and creates lasting memories. This recipe not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul.

2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Meatballs

Let’s gather our ingredients! For this recipe, we’ll need a few key components to bring those Greek flavors to life.

Essentials:

Cooking Spray: This will keep our meatballs from sticking to the rack as they bake.
1 Slice White Bread (Torn into 1-inch pieces, about 1/2 cup): This acts as a binder and adds moisture; you can also use whole wheat bread for a healthier option.
1/4 Cup Milk: It helps to soften the bread and bind everything together.
1 Egg (Beaten): Another binder, adding richness to our meat mixture.
1/4 Cup Red Onion (Finely Chopped): Provides a sweet and mild onion flavor that lifts the overall dish.
1 Garlic Clove (Minced): Can you ever have too much garlic? I think not! It adds depth and flavor.
2 Teaspoons Oregano: A classic herb in Greek cuisine, it gives our meatballs that authentic flavor.
1 Teaspoon Cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
1/2 Teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
1 Pound Ground Beef: The base of our meatballs. You can substitute this with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
1 Cup Crumbled Feta Cheese: The star filling that elevates our meatballs from ordinary to extraordinary.

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

2 Small Persian Cucumbers (Peeled and Grated): Adds a refreshing crunch.
1 Cup Greek Yogurt: Creamy, rich, and perfect for balancing the meatballs’ flavors.
1 Garlic Clove (Minced): Same as before, more flavor!
3 Tablespoons Lemon Juice: Brightens up the sauce with a zesty kick.
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil: For a smooth texture in our tzatziki.
1 Tablespoon Fresh Mint (Chopped): Adds freshness and wonderful aroma.
3/4 Teaspoon Salt: Keeps the flavor balanced.

Optional Add-Ons:

You can experiment with spices like paprika or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh parsley can also make a lovely addition.

Substitutions and Shortcuts:

If you’re gluten-free, swap out the bread for gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
Don’t have fresh mint? Dried mint can work, but remember to use less since it’s more concentrated.
If you’re short on time, store-bought tzatziki is a fantastic shortcut.

3. How to Make Greek Meatballs Step-by-Step

Let’s dive into the process of creating these delicious Greek meatballs and tzatziki sauce. I’ll break it down into easy steps to follow.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for cooking the meatballs evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Spray a wire rack with nonstick cooking spray and place it over a rimmed baking sheet. This allows the meatballs to bake without sitting in their juices.

Step 3: Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the torn bread and milk. Let it sit for about one minute to allow the bread to absorb the milk. This step is crucial for keeping the meatballs light and moist.

Next, add in the beaten egg, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and a quarter of the ground beef to the bread mixture. Mix everything together until fully combined.

Now, add the remainder of the ground beef. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; just blend until you can no longer see the raw meat.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs
Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Get your hands a little messy for the next part! Flatten each portion into a circle, about the size of your palm. Take a heaping tablespoon of crumbled feta cheese and place it in the center. Gently fold the edges of the meat up and around the feta, pinching it closed, and then roll it into a round ball.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs
Place the meatballs on the prepared wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Keep an eye on them; ovens can vary!

Step 6: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While your meatballs are baking, let’s whip up the tzatziki sauce. Start by grating your cucumbers. Once grated, place them in a clean kitchen towel and wring out as much moisture as possible—this will help keep the sauce from becoming watery.

In a medium bowl, combine the drained cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped mint, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 7: Serve It Up!
Once your meatballs are done, serve them hot with a generous dollop of the tzatziki sauce on the side. For an extra pop of flavor, you can sprinkle more chopped mint on top of the meatballs.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Meat Mixture:
When combining the ingredients for your meatballs, overmixing can lead to dense meatballs. You want to combine evenly but keep it light and airy for that tender texture. Be gentle when you add the ground beef, and mix just until blended.

Skipping the Milk-Bread Step:
Do not skip the step where you combine the bread and milk! This is essential for keeping the meatballs moist and tender. If you skip it or rush it, you might end up with dry meatballs.

Not Draining the Cucumber:
One of the biggest mistakes with tzatziki is not draining the cucumber properly. If you add the grated cucumber without squeezing out the moisture, your sauce will be runny. Make sure to wring it out well!

5. Serving Suggestions for Greek Meatballs

These Greek meatballs are incredibly versatile, and there are countless ways to enjoy them!

With Pita Bread:
Serve the meatballs wrapped in warm pita bread with some fresh veggies, like sliced tomatoes and lettuce. The tzatziki adds a nice creaminess that balances out the flavors.

With a Side Salad:
Pair these meatballs with a refreshing Greek salad made of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Simply dress it with olive oil and lemon juice for an exciting contrast to the meatballs.

Over Rice or Quinoa:
For a heartier meal, serve your meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. Drizzle some additional tzatziki on top for a delicious fusion of flavors!

Conclusion

As you can see, making Greek meatballs is easier than it looks! Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or enjoying them meal prep for the week, they are both cozy and classic, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike!

Now, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try. You’ll be happy to have these delightful meatballs in your repertoire!

FAQs About Greek Meatballs

What are Greek meatballs?
Greek meatballs, also known as "keftedes," are seasoned meatballs typically made with ground beef or lamb, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. They’re commonly served with tzatziki sauce and often accompany Mediterranean dishes.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of Greek meatballs. Just keep in mind that the flavor might vary slightly.

How do I store leftover Greek meatballs?
Once cooled, store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw completely before reheating.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare both the meatballs and tzatziki sauce in advance. Form the meatballs and refrigerate them, then bake them when you’re ready to serve. The tzatziki can be made a day or two ahead for even better flavor.

What should I serve with Greek meatballs?
Greek meatballs pair beautifully with pita bread, quinoa, rice, or a refreshing salad. You can also offer a variety of dips and spreads, or even serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks for dipping in the tzatziki.

Greek Meatballs

1. Why I Love This Recipe of Greek Meatballs

2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Meatballs