Greek meatballs, known as keftedes, are a delicious and versatile staple of Mediterranean cuisine.
Bursting with fresh herbs, spices, and often accompanied by tangy sauces like tzatziki or avgolemono, these meatballs are as comforting as they are flavorful.
Whether made from beef, lamb, chicken, or a blend, Greek meatballs can be crispy-fried, simmered in rich tomato sauce, or baked to perfection.
In this collection of 26+ Greek meatball recipes, you’ll find a diverse range of dishes—from traditional classics like soutzoukakia and keftedes me feta to creative variations featuring mushrooms, spices, and lemony sauces.
Perfect for everything from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings, these recipes bring the vibrant tastes of Greece straight to your kitchen.
26+ Easy and Flavorful Greek Meatball Recipes to Savor and Share
keftedes
Keftedes are traditional Greek meatballs known for their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior.
Infused with fresh herbs like mint and oregano, these meatballs are a staple in Greek households and mezze platters.
Their aromatic seasoning and light texture make them perfect as appetizers or paired with tzatziki for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley and mint, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
Combine the ground meat with grated onion, garlic, chopped herbs, breadcrumbs, and egg. Season generously with salt and pepper. Shape into small balls and fry in hot olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Keftedes are loved for their balance of herbs and spices, offering a fresh and fragrant bite.
Their crispy outside contrasts perfectly with the juicy inside, making them ideal for entertaining or a comforting family dinner.
soutzoukakia
Soutzoukakia are Greek meatballs seasoned with cumin and garlic, traditionally simmered in a rich tomato sauce.
This dish is hearty and aromatic, showcasing the depth of Mediterranean spices.
Served over rice or with crusty bread, soutzoukakia delivers a comforting and flavorful experience.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Ground cumin
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Crushed tomatoes
- Red wine (optional)
Instructions:
Mix ground meat with onion, garlic, cumin, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into elongated meatballs. Brown them in olive oil, then simmer in a tomato sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and optional red wine until tender and infused with flavor.
Soutzoukakia are perfect for those who love bold spices and rich sauces. Their slow-cooked tenderness combined with the zesty tomato base makes this dish a beloved Greek comfort food.
lamb meatballs
Greek lamb meatballs are rich and fragrant, combining ground lamb with herbs like oregano and mint, along with garlic and lemon zest.
Often baked or pan-fried and served with a yogurt-based sauce, these meatballs embody the Mediterranean’s vibrant flavors and are perfect for festive occasions or casual meals alike.
Ingredients:
- Ground lamb
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh oregano and mint, chopped
- Lemon zest
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the ground lamb with garlic, herbs, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs. Cook in olive oil until browned and cooked through, or bake in the oven. Serve warm with a side of tzatziki or plain yogurt.
These lamb meatballs are a celebration of Greek flavors, offering a juicy and aromatic bite with every forkful.
Their bright herbal notes and zesty lemon make them especially refreshing and satisfying.
keftedakia avgolemono
Keftedakia avgolemono are tender Greek meatballs simmered in a luscious egg-lemon sauce that brightens and enriches the dish.
This recipe combines the heartiness of meatballs with the silky, tangy texture of avgolemono, a classic Greek sauce, creating a comforting and elegant meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Chicken broth
- Eggs (for sauce)
- Lemon juice
Instructions:
Mix ground meat with onion, garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs and brown in olive oil. Remove meatballs and set aside. In the same pot, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return meatballs to the broth and cook through. Whisk eggs and lemon juice together, then temper with hot broth before stirring into the pot gently, creating a creamy sauce without curdling.
Keftedakia avgolemono combines savory meatballs with a tangy, creamy sauce that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
The balance of hearty and bright flavors makes it a standout Greek classic, ideal for family dinners and special gatherings.
soutzoukakia smyrneika
Soutzoukakia Smyrneika are spicy, oblong meatballs inspired by the culinary traditions of Smyrna (modern-day Izmir).
Seasoned with cumin and smoked paprika, then slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce with garlic and onions, these meatballs are bursting with deep, smoky flavors and a touch of heat.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Ground cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Canned tomatoes
- Red wine vinegar
Instructions:
Combine meat with onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into elongated meatballs. Brown in olive oil, then set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic, add canned tomatoes and vinegar, and simmer. Return meatballs to the sauce and cook slowly until tender and infused with smoky spices.
Soutzoukakia Smyrneika bring a bold, smoky dimension to the traditional Greek meatball, offering a spicy, aromatic twist that’s perfect for those who love robust flavors and tender textures in their meals.
lamb keftedes with tzatziki
Lamb keftedes served with tzatziki are a delicious and refreshing combination, showcasing Greek cuisine’s love of fresh herbs, spices, and cooling yogurt-based sauces.
The meatballs are richly flavored with mint and garlic, while the creamy tzatziki adds a tangy, cucumber-infused contrast, making this a perfect dish for warm-weather dining or festive occasions.
Ingredients:
- Ground lamb
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh mint and parsley, chopped
- Onion, grated
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Greek yogurt
- Cucumber, grated and drained
- Garlic, minced (for tzatziki)
- Lemon juice
- Dill or mint
Instructions:
Mix lamb with garlic, herbs, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs and pan-fry until browned and cooked through. For tzatziki, combine Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Serve meatballs hot with a generous dollop of tzatziki.
This dish balances rich, savory lamb meatballs with the cool, zesty freshness of tzatziki, creating a harmonious blend that highlights the best of Greek flavors.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as satisfying as it is vibrant.
biftekia
Biftekia are Greek-style grilled or pan-fried beef patties seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. Unlike traditional round meatballs, biftekia are typically flatter and larger, making them ideal for serving in pita bread or alongside fresh salads. Their juicy texture and savory flavor make them a beloved street food and home-cooked favorite across Greece.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley and oregano, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Mix ground beef with onion, garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into oval-shaped patties. Cook on a hot grill or skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Serve warm.
Biftekia offer a smoky, herbaceous flavor with a satisfying char that complements many Greek dishes.
Whether enjoyed in a pita wrap or plated with sides, they bring authentic Greek street-food vibes to your table.
keftedes with feta
Keftedes with feta add a delicious twist to classic Greek meatballs by incorporating creamy feta cheese into the mixture.
This addition gives the meatballs a delightful tang and moist texture, while the herbs and spices keep them aromatic and flavorful.
Perfect as appetizers or part of a main meal, these meatballs showcase the rich flavors of Greek cheese and seasonings.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh mint and parsley, chopped
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Combine ground meat, onion, garlic, herbs, feta, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine. Shape into small meatballs and fry in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels and serve.
The creamy feta inside these keftedes adds a luscious richness that elevates the traditional meatball.
They are irresistible finger foods that pair beautifully with a cool tzatziki or a crisp salad.
spicy keftedes
Spicy keftedes bring a fiery kick to traditional Greek meatballs by adding chili flakes and warming spices like cumin and paprika.
These meatballs are bold and aromatic, balancing heat with herbs and garlic.
They’re perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice and want to add some excitement to their Greek meal.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Chili flakes or fresh chili, finely chopped
- Ground cumin
- Paprika
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the ground meat with onion, garlic, parsley, chili, cumin, paprika, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs. Fry in hot olive oil until golden and cooked through. Drain and serve warm.
Spicy keftedes offer a vibrant and flavorful twist on a Greek classic.
The heat awakens the palate while the herbs and spices provide depth, making these meatballs a memorable addition to any meal or party spread.
lamb soutzoukakia
Lamb soutzoukakia are elongated Greek meatballs flavored with cumin, garlic, and herbs, slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce.
This dish is a comforting staple that combines tender meatballs with a fragrant, tangy sauce, making it perfect served over rice or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
- Ground lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Ground cumin
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Red wine (optional)
Instructions:
Mix ground lamb with onion, garlic, cumin, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into oblong meatballs. Brown in olive oil, then simmer in a tomato sauce made with crushed tomatoes and red wine until tender and flavorful.
Lamb soutzoukakia are a delicious, hearty dish that captures the warmth of Greek home cooking.
The combination of spices and slow-simmered sauce creates layers of flavor that make every bite satisfying and memorable.
chicken keftedes
Chicken keftedes offer a lighter take on classic Greek meatballs, combining ground chicken with fresh herbs and spices for a juicy, flavorful result.
These meatballs are versatile and can be grilled, baked, or fried, making them perfect for a healthy family dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
- Ground chicken
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Lemon zest
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Mix ground chicken with onion, garlic, herbs, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs. Cook in olive oil until browned and cooked through, or bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.
Chicken keftedes are tender and fragrant, with bright herbal notes and a subtle citrus finish.
They’re a great alternative to red meat, providing all the flavor with less fat, and pair wonderfully with a fresh tzatziki sauce.
keftedes in tomato sauce
Keftedes in tomato sauce are traditional Greek meatballs simmered gently in a savory tomato base infused with garlic and herbs.
This homey dish is comforting and full of flavor, ideal for serving with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh oregano and parsley, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Crushed tomatoes
- Tomato paste
Instructions:
Combine ground meat with onion, garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs and brown in olive oil. Remove meatballs and sauté garlic in the same pan, then add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Return meatballs to the sauce and simmer until cooked through and tender.
Keftedes in tomato sauce provide a perfect blend of juicy meatballs and rich, tangy tomato flavors.
This hearty dish embodies Greek comfort food and is sure to please family and guests alike.
keftedes me manitaria
Keftedes me manitaria are Greek meatballs enriched with the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms.
Combining ground meat with finely chopped mushrooms adds moisture and a savory depth, making these meatballs tender and flavorful.
Often enjoyed as a main dish or part of a mezze spread, they bring a delightful twist to traditional keftedes.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Mushrooms, finely chopped and sautéed
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Mix ground meat with sautéed mushrooms, onion, garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs and fry in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
These mushroom-infused keftedes offer a rich, umami-packed flavor profile that elevates classic Greek meatballs.
The combination of tender meat and earthy mushrooms creates a satisfying and memorable dish.
spicy lamb keftedes
Spicy lamb keftedes are bold Greek meatballs made with ground lamb and flavored with chili flakes, cumin, and fresh herbs.
The spicy kick balances perfectly with the richness of lamb, resulting in a dish that’s both fragrant and exciting.
These meatballs are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their Mediterranean meals.
Ingredients:
- Ground lamb
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh mint and parsley, chopped
- Chili flakes
- Ground cumin
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Combine ground lamb with garlic, herbs, chili flakes, cumin, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs and fry in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Serve hot with a cooling yogurt dip.
These spicy lamb keftedes are a fiery and flavorful take on a Greek classic, delivering a delicious blend of heat, herbs, and tender meat that’s sure to impress at any meal.
chicken keftedes with herbs
Chicken keftedes with herbs are light and aromatic Greek meatballs featuring ground chicken mixed with fresh parsley, dill, and mint.
These meatballs are juicy and fragrant, offering a healthier alternative to traditional beef or lamb versions.
They’re great for entertaining or as a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- Ground chicken
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, dill, and mint, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Mix ground chicken with onion, garlic, fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs. Pan-fry in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Serve warm with lemon wedges or tzatziki sauce.
Herb-infused chicken keftedes bring a fresh, vibrant flavor to the table. Their tender texture and bright herbal notes make them a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal.
soutzoukakia karnagio
Soutzoukakia Karnagio are traditional Greek meatballs from the port city of Piraeus, known for their distinctive elongated shape and rich, aromatic tomato sauce.
Flavored with cumin and garlic, these meatballs are slow-cooked to tender perfection, offering a hearty and satisfying meal often served over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Ground cumin
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Crushed tomatoes
- Red wine (optional)
Instructions:
Combine ground meat with onion, garlic, cumin, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into oblong meatballs. Brown in olive oil, then simmer in a tomato sauce made with crushed tomatoes and optional red wine until the meatballs are tender and flavorful.
Soutzoukakia Karnagio deliver bold, smoky flavors with a tender texture that embodies classic Greek comfort food.
This dish is perfect for family dinners and showcases the rich culinary heritage of Greece’s coastal regions.
keftedes plaki
Keftedes Plaki are Greek meatballs baked in a savory tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and fresh herbs.
This casserole-style dish combines the juiciness of the meatballs with the rich flavors of the sauce, making it a hearty and wholesome meal often enjoyed with crusty bread or rice.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley and dill, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Crushed tomatoes
- Tomato paste
Instructions:
Mix ground meat with onion, garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form meatballs and brown them lightly in olive oil. Place meatballs in a baking dish, cover with a sauce made from crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, onions, and garlic. Bake until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Keftedes Plaki is a comforting, rustic dish that melds tender meatballs with a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
The combination of baking and simmering creates a depth of flavor that is truly satisfying.
lamb keftedes with lemon sauce
Lamb keftedes with lemon sauce combine tender, herb-infused lamb meatballs with a bright and tangy lemon sauce.
This dish highlights the classic Greek pairing of lamb and citrus, creating a perfect balance between rich meat and zesty freshness.
It’s an elegant yet simple meal ideal for special occasions or everyday dining.
Ingredients:
- Ground lamb
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh oregano and mint, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Chicken broth
- Egg yolks (for sauce)
Instructions:
Mix lamb with garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs and brown in olive oil. Simmer meatballs in chicken broth until cooked. Prepare lemon sauce by whisking egg yolks with lemon juice, then temper with hot broth. Stir sauce into the pot gently and serve warm.
This dish offers a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures, with juicy lamb meatballs complemented by a creamy, tangy lemon sauce.
It’s a perfect expression of Greek culinary finesse that brings brightness and comfort to the table.
keftedes me kima
Keftedes me kima are classic Greek meatballs made with ground beef or lamb, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices.
These meatballs are juicy on the inside with a crispy exterior, often served as part of a meze platter or alongside a fresh salad and tzatziki.
Their simple yet flavorful profile makes them a staple in Greek home cooking.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley and oregano, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Combine ground meat with onion, garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs and fry in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Keftedes me kima are beloved for their tender texture and herbaceous flavor, offering a comforting taste of Greece that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
soutzoukakia
Soutzoukakia are spiced Greek meatballs shaped into elongated forms and simmered in a rich tomato sauce with garlic and cumin.
This dish is hearty and fragrant, delivering bold Mediterranean flavors.
Served over rice or mashed potatoes, soutzoukakia is a favorite comfort food across Greece.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Ground cumin
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Crushed tomatoes
Instructions:
Mix ground meat with onion, garlic, cumin, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into oval meatballs. Brown in olive oil, then simmer in crushed tomato sauce until tender and flavorful.
Soutzoukakia combine spicy, aromatic meatballs with a savory sauce, creating a dish that’s deeply satisfying and perfect for a hearty family meal.
keftedes with feta cheese
Keftedes with feta cheese incorporate crumbled feta into the meatball mixture, adding a creamy, tangy dimension to the traditional Greek meatball.
These meatballs are moist and flavorful, combining the richness of meat with the distinctive taste of feta, making them a delicious appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley and mint, chopped
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Mix ground meat with onion, garlic, herbs, feta, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs and fry in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Serve warm.
These keftedes offer a perfect blend of savory meat and creamy feta, delivering a flavorful bite that’s sure to impress guests or satisfy family appetites.
keftedes with herbs
Keftedes with herbs are classic Greek meatballs bursting with fresh flavors from parsley, mint, and oregano.
These tender meatballs are seasoned perfectly and pan-fried until golden, making them a versatile dish for any meal.
They can be served as appetizers or alongside salads and dips for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, mint, and oregano, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Combine ground meat with onion, garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs and fry in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
These herb-infused keftedes offer a fragrant and fresh taste of Greek cuisine, perfect for those who appreciate a balance of robust meat flavors and aromatic herbs.
keftedes with tzatziki
Keftedes with tzatziki is a classic Greek pairing that brings together juicy, flavorful meatballs with a cool, creamy cucumber-yogurt sauce.
The savory keftedes are seasoned with garlic and herbs, while the tzatziki adds a refreshing contrast that makes this dish a crowd favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Greek yogurt
- Cucumber, grated and drained
- Garlic, minced (for tzatziki)
- Lemon juice
- Dill or mint
Instructions:
Mix ground meat with onion, garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs and fry until golden and cooked through. For tzatziki, combine Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Serve keftedes hot with a generous dollop of tzatziki.
This combination offers a perfect harmony of warm, spiced meatballs and cool, tangy sauce, making it a refreshing and satisfying Greek classic.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to add some Mediterranean flair to your meals, these 26+ Greek meatball recipes are a fantastic place to start. From quick pan-fried favorites to slow-simmered dishes, there’s a recipe here for every taste and occasion. Experiment with fresh herbs, tangy sauces, and bold spices to make these meatballs your own. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, these recipes offer delicious, wholesome options that make every meal a little more special.
