Greek-Style Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender lamb meatballs seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and spices, served with a cooling cucumber tzatziki sauce. This greek-inspired lamb (mediterranean) ready in about 35 minutes blends ground lamb, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic cloves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 360 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Greek cuisine 360 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground lamb, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 large egg, and 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into 16 uniform meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F). Remove and keep warm.
  4. Step 4: Meanwhile, prepare the tzatziki by combining 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 grated and drained cucumber, 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and stir well.
  5. Step 5: Serve the lamb meatballs warm with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on top or on the side.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Greek-Style Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Greek-Style Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Greek-Style Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Greek-Style Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Greek-Style Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce?

Greek lamb like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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