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The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce
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The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce are tender meatballs made from a blend of ground beef and lamb, combined with fresh herbs, spices, and soaked in a bright, tangy lemon sauce. This comforting Mediterranean dish offers vibrant flavors with a perfect balance of savory and zesty notes, ideal for quick dinners or special meals with loved ones.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (or gluten-free bread crumbs for GF version)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Optional spices: 1/4 tsp cinnamon or allspice

Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and lamb with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, egg, parsley, mint, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into small, uniform golf-ball sized meatballs. Place them on a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  3. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully and cook until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. This seals in flavor and texture.
  4. Make the Lemon Sauce: Remove most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about a tablespoon. Add chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up browned bits for extra flavor.
  5. Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the pan, cover, and let them cook gently in the lemon sauce for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked and infused with the zesty flavor.
  6. Final Touches: Adjust seasoning to taste, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve. The sauce will thicken slightly, coating the meatballs beautifully.

Notes

  • Use a blend of beef and lamb for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • Mix meatball ingredients just until combined to avoid dense meatballs.
  • Fresh lemon zest elevates the flavor more than bottled lemon juice alone.
  • Simmer the meatballs gently to keep them soft and allow the sauce to thicken perfectly.
  • Let meatballs rest a few minutes after cooking to intensify flavors and settle the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek meatballs, lemon sauce, Mediterranean, beef and lamb meatballs, soft meatballs, juicy meatballs, authentic Greek recipe, lemon flavor, easy dinner, gluten free option

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/the-softest-and-juiciest-greek-meatballs-in-lemon-sauce/