Name: Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce You'll Crave Daily
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey/chicken for lighter version); 1 medium Grated Onion (yellow or sweet onions preferred); 1/2 cup Arborio Rice (uncooked and rinsed); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (or mint); 1 tbsp Fresh Dill (or thyme for substitute); 1 large Egg (acts as a binder); 1 tsp Oregano; 1 tsp Salt (to taste); 1 tsp Black Pepper (to taste); 2 cup Chicken Broth (low-sodium recommended); 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 2 large Eggs (for sauce); 1/4 cup Lemon Juice

As the sun dipped below the horizon, filling the sky with a warm golden hue, the inviting aroma of sizzling meatballs wafted through my kitchen. These Soft and Juicy Greek Meatballs in Lemony Avgolemono Sauce are my go-to comfort food, infusing our family dinners with the heart of Mediterranean cuisine. Each bite of these tender meatballs, lovingly simmered in a creamy lemon sauce, transports me to sun-kissed landscapes and joyful gatherings. Not only do they promise a cozy meal for any evening, but they’re also adaptable for those seeking a lighter option—just swap the beef for turkey or chicken! Ready in under an hour, they beautifully blend tradition and convenience, making them an irresistible choice for any home chef. Ready to discover just how delightful Mediterranean flavors can transform your cooking?

Why are these meatballs so irresistible?

Tender Texture: The meatballs are impossibly soft and juicy, providing a delightful contrast to the luscious lemon sauce.

Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies the essence of Mediterranean comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or a special gathering.

Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile Ingredients: Easily adaptable for lighter diets by substituting ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, without losing that comforting essence.

A Taste of Greece: Immerse yourself in vibrant flavors that not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring the warmth of Mediterranean culture into your kitchen.

Pair these meatballs with fresh herbs and crusty bread, and you’ll find yourself craving this dish daily! If you love lemon flavors, you might also enjoy this Baked Lemon Butter or Lemon Garlic Butter.

Juiciest Greek Meatballs Ingredients

• The ingredients you’ll need to create the juiciest Greek meatballs in lemon sauce are simple yet flavorful.

For the Meatballs

Ground Beef – This is your primary protein source; feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Grated Onion – Adds moisture and flavor; yellow or sweet onions work best for this dish.
Arborio Rice – Provides structure and absorbs delicious flavors; make sure it’s uncooked and rinsed beforehand to remove excess starch.
Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish; if you want a fresh twist, you can swap it for mint, or omit it altogether for simplicity.
Fresh Dill – This herb adds a distinct note; thyme can be a great substitute for a more savory flavor.
Egg – Acts as a binder for the meatball mixture and enriches the average sauce.
Oregano – Provide an earthy undertone that rounds out the flavors.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for taste; season generously to your liking.
Chicken Broth – The base cooking liquid for both the meatballs and the sauce; low-sodium broth is a healthy option.
Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and aids with cooking, giving your dish that Mediterranean touch.

For the Avgolemono Sauce

Eggs (for sauce) – Essential for creating the creamy texture of the avgolemono sauce; whisk them well before use.
Lemon Juice – Infuses the sauce with the distinctive tang; about 1/4 cup is needed to achieve the right flavor.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s unleash the deliciousness of these juiciest Greek meatballs in lemon sauce!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, arborio rice, chopped parsley, dill, one egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix until the ingredients are well-combined, but be careful not to overmix, which can toughen the meat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Once the mixture is chilled, scoop and shape it into golf ball-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. As you form each meatball, place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have a little space between them to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for the juiciest Greek meatballs in lemon sauce, as it helps maintain their shape during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
In a wide pot, heat the chicken broth and olive oil over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Carefully add the shaped meatballs to the pot, taking care not to overcrowd them—this ensures even cooking. Cover with a lid and let them simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.

Step 4: Whisk the Avgolemono Sauce
While the meatballs are cooking, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice in a separate bowl until well combined. This egg-lemon mixture is what makes the avgolemono sauce unique and creamy. To prevent curdling, ladle a small amount of hot broth from the pot into the egg mixture while whisking constantly, gradually warming it up.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Meatballs
Once the egg mixture is tempered, pour it slowly back into the pot with the meatballs, stirring gently to avoid scrambling the eggs. Keep the heat on very low to allow the avgolemono sauce to thicken slightly, which should take just a few minutes. Be careful not to boil the sauce, as that will ruin its creamy texture.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat once the avgolemono sauce has thickened to your liking. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the juiciest Greek meatballs in lemon sauce warm, garnished with extra dill or lemon wedges if desired, and soak up the sauce with crusty bread or a side of rice for a delightful meal.

Tips for the Best Greek Meatballs

Perfectly Tender: Mix the meatball ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Keep that wonderful juiciness!
Rinse the Rice: Ensure arboreal rice is rinsed before adding it to the mix; this prevents clumping and helps achieve the right texture in the juiciest Greek meatballs.
Temperature Control: Remember to simmer the meatballs on low heat; overcrowding your pot can lead to uneven cooking. Give each meatball some room!
Tempering Eggs: When whisking your avgolemono sauce, always ladle hot broth into the egg mixture slowly to prevent curdling. A gentle touch is key to a creamy sauce.
Taste and Adjust: As the final touch, always taste your sauce before serving. A pinch more salt or a dash of lemon juice can elevate the dish perfectly!
Freezing for Later: If you want to make these delicious meatballs ahead of time, freeze them before adding the sauce. Reheat gently in broth when you’re ready to serve.

Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize your Greek meatballs with these delicious twists!

Lean Meat: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, adjusting cooking time to keep them juicy.
Herb Swap: Replace fresh parsley with fresh mint for a refreshing twist that brightens up the flavor profile, perfect for summer gatherings!
Flavor Boost: Add grated lemon zest to the meatball mixture for an extra punch of citrus that complements the avgolemono sauce beautifully.
Rice Alternatives: Use quinoa in place of arborio rice for a gluten-free twist, giving the meatballs a unique texture while maintaining moisture.
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free sauce, swap eggs with a cornstarch slurry combined with almond milk, creating a creamy texture without the eggs.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture to spice things up a notch, perfect for those who like a bit of heat with their comfort food!
Mediterranean Blend: Mix in chopped Kalamata olives or feta cheese into the meatball blend for an authentic Mediterranean touch that enhances the flavor.
Sauce Variations: If you enjoy creative sauces, try substituting some lemon juice with lime juice for a tangy, unexpected twist! You might also love serving them with a side of Lemon Garlic Butter for extra flavor.

These variations add layers of flavor and texture, making each serving uniquely enjoyable. Embrace the Mediterranean spirit just like with these Baked Lemon Butter delights!

Make Ahead Options

These Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the ingredients, shape them into meatballs, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. You can also make the avgolemono sauce ahead of time, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days; just be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, just simmer the meatballs in chicken broth until cooked through, then mix in the sauce, ensuring your family enjoys the same delicious flavor with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Juiciest Greek Meatballs

Fridge: Keep the meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’ve added the avgolemono sauce, consume within 2 days to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs without the sauce in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat the frozen meatballs gently in chicken broth over low heat until warmed through, then serve with fresh avgolemono sauce for the juiciest Greek meatballs experience.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking; this way, you can have a comforting meal ready and waiting for busy nights!

What to Serve with Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

The perfect meal isn’t complete without the ideal accompaniments to elevate those tender, zesty meatballs into a memorable dining experience.

Crusty Bread: These meatballs pair wonderfully with warm, crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy avgolemono sauce.
Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad offers a crunch and coolness that beautifully complements the meatballs, balancing the flavors with vibrant veggies.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, to enhance the meal with satisfying texture and earthy flavors.
Lemon Herb Rice: Serve the meatballs over fluffy lemon herb rice, allowing each bite to absorb the bright, zesty essence of the dish.

Indulging in these pairings not only completes your meal but also takes your taste buds on a delightful Mediterranean journey. Consider adding a side of tzatziki for some creamy freshness and contrast. Each element promises to amplify the juiciness of your Greek meatballs!

Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing drink, serve sparkling water infused with lemon wedges, complementing the citrus flavors of the dish beautifully.
Baklava for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with baklava, whose honeyed layers bring a luscious contrast to the savory meatballs, completing the experience.

Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ground beef for my meatballs?
Absolutely! When choosing ground beef, look for a blend that’s around 80% lean and 20% fat; this ratio offers the perfect balance, ensuring your meatballs come out juicy without being greasy. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, but be sure to adjust the cooking times as they tend to dry out faster.

How should I store leftover meatballs and avgolemono sauce?
Very! If you’ve got leftovers, place them in an airtight container as soon as they’ve cooled, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the avgolemono sauce has been added, consume those within 2 days for the best creamy texture. Just remember to reheat gently on low heat for best results!

Can I freeze these meatballs?
Absolutely! If you’re thinking ahead, freeze the cooked meatballs without sauce in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them gently in chicken broth over low heat before serving with fresh avgolemono sauce.

What if my avgolemono sauce curdles?
If your avgolemono sauce curdles, don’t worry! It’s a common hiccup. To salvage it, you could try adding a splash of hot broth and whisking vigorously to bring it back to a smoother consistency. To avoid this in the future, always temper your egg and lemon mixture with hot broth slowly, and avoid boiling the sauce after incorporating the eggs.

Can I use different herbs for flavor?
Very much so! While fresh parsley and dill are traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs depending on your preference. Fresh mint gives a delightful twist, or if you have thyme on hand, it can replace dill for a more savory flavor profile. Just remember, the more the merrier when it comes to herbs!

Are these meatballs safe for my pets?
It’s best to be cautious! While plain cooked meatballs (without seasonings and sauce) can be a treat for dogs, avoid using the avgolemono sauce, as the lemon and raw eggs are not safe for pets. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on what’s best for your furry friends.