Name: The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 500g ground beef; 250g ground pork; 2 slices white bread; 1/2 cup milk; 1 egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 2 egg yolks; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp chopped dill (optional)

Greek meatballs, known as “keftedes,” are loved for their herby, tender texture and rich flavor. But pair them with a velvety lemon sauce, and you’ve got a comforting dish that tastes like a hug from a Greek yia-yia. These meatballs are incredibly soft and juicy, simmered until perfection in a bright, creamy lemon sauce that wraps each bite in Mediterranean sunshine.

Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just want a flavorful twist to your weeknight meals, this recipe fits both occasions. The lemon sauce adds a zesty touch that balances the hearty meatballs, making them irresistible and just a little addictive. One spoonful and you’ll be booking a flight to Santorini in your mind.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

These meatballs stand out for their incredible tenderness, achieved by soaking bread in milk and mixing it gently into the meat. The lemon sauce is creamy yet light, rich without being heavy. It’s a wholesome, warming meal that’s satisfying without being overbearing. Plus, they reheat beautifully, which makes them ideal for meal prep.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use?

Traditionally, Greek keftedes use a mix of ground beef and pork for richness and flavor depth. You can stick with that or use just beef or lamb if preferred. For a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works well too. The key is adding enough moisture from soaked bread, onions, and herbs to keep everything juicy and tender.

Ingredients for the Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

A few simple but well-balanced ingredients make this dish sing with flavor. Every item adds texture, aroma, or richness to round out these perfect bites.

Ground beef

Ground pork

White bread

Milk

Egg

Onion

Garlic

Fresh parsley

Dried oregano

Salt and pepper

Olive oil

Chicken broth

Lemon juice

Cornstarch

Egg yolks

Dill (optional)

The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce (1)

How To Make the Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

Step 1: Soak the Bread

Tear the white bread into small pieces and soak it in milk until fully softened. This is what gives the meatballs their iconic tenderness.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, the soaked bread, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix or they’ll turn dense.

Step 3: Shape and Brown the Meatballs

Form the meat mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches wide. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. You don’t need to cook them through just yet.

Step 4: Simmer in Broth

Transfer the browned meatballs to a pot and cover with chicken broth. Let them simmer gently for about 20 minutes, which helps them stay moist and soak up the flavor.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Sauce

In a bowl, whisk the lemon juice with egg yolks and a bit of cornstarch. Slowly ladle some hot broth from the meatballs into the lemon mixture to temper the eggs. Then pour it all back into the pot and stir until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and sprinkle with dill if using.

How to Serve and Store Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

These meatballs are best served warm, ladled over fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or orzo. They make a wonderful centerpiece at the dinner table. This recipe feeds about 4 to 5 people generously.

To store, let them cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. They last up to 4 days in the fridge and reheat beautifully in a pan over low heat. You can also freeze them with the sauce for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce?

Crusty Bread

Soak up that luscious lemon sauce with warm, crusty bread fresh from the oven.

Greek Salad

A chilled side of cucumber, tomato, olives, and feta balances the warm, rich meatballs perfectly.

Lemon Potatoes

Double down on the citrus theme with classic Greek lemon potatoes that are roasted until crispy.

Tzatziki Sauce

Serve a dollop of tzatziki on the side for a creamy, garlicky contrast.

Orzo Pilaf

This quick-cooking pasta soaks up the lemon sauce beautifully and keeps everything light.

Grilled Vegetables

Try grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a smoky and healthy addition.

Rice Pilaf

Simple, buttery rice pilaf is a no-fail base to build the meal on.

Roasted Green Beans

Add crunch and color to your plate with oven-roasted green beans tossed in olive oil and garlic.

Want More Mediterranean-Inspired Ideas?

If this lemony Greek meatball dish hit the spot, you might also love these:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use lamb or stick to beef and pork? Did you add dill or skip it? I love hearing how you make these your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for cozy dinners and vibrant plates.

Conclusion

Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce deliver serious comfort with a vibrant Mediterranean twist. From their tender bite to the zingy sauce, this dish is about nourishing simplicity. Serve it for guests or enjoy it as a cozy night-in treat—it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.