Ultra-Tender Greek Meatballs Simmered in Fresh Lemon Sauce bring together delicate beef meatballs, fragrant herbs, and a silky lemon-infused sauce that feels both comforting and elegant. Warm notes of garlic, olive oil, and citrus gently coat each bite, creating a dish that is soothing yet vibrant. This recipe is ideal for cozy weeknight dinners, relaxed family meals, or colder days when comforting Mediterranean flavors are most welcome.
Servings – Ultra-Tender Greek Meatballs Simmered in Fresh Lemon Sauce
Servings: 4–5 servings
This recipe yields a generous pan of tender meatballs in sauce, perfect for sharing or for planned leftovers.
Time Required for Ultra-Tender Greek Meatballs Simmered in Fresh Lemon Sauce
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
The preparation is straightforward, while the gentle simmer allows the flavors to fully develop.
Ingredients for Ultra-Tender Greek Meatballs Simmered in Fresh Lemon Sauce
Main Ingredients
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600 g ground beef (80/20 for tenderness)
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1 small onion (100 g), finely grated
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2 cloves garlic (10 g), minced
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60 g breadcrumbs
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80 ml whole milk
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1 large egg
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50 ml extra virgin olive oil (divided)
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500 ml chicken stock (low sodium)
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80 ml fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
Spices & Seasoning
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1½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp fine sea salt
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Optional: a pinch of nutmeg for warmth or bay leaf during simmering for depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the flavor base:
First, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 2–3 minutes until fully absorbed. Meanwhile, combine the ground beef, grated onion, garlic, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon zest in a large bowl. -
Mix and shape:
Next, gently mix the ingredients using your hands just until combined. However, avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs dense. Shape into evenly sized meatballs, about 40–45 g each. -
Sear the meatballs:
Then, heat 30 ml olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches until lightly golden on all sides. They do not need to cook through at this stage. Remove and set aside. -
Deglaze the pan:
Meanwhile, add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet. Pour in a small splash of chicken stock, scraping up the browned bits from the pan. This step builds depth and aroma. -
Add liquids and simmer:
Next, add the remaining chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Carefully return the meatballs to the pan, ensuring they are partially submerged. -
Finish with lemon:
Then, lower the heat and slowly stir in the fresh lemon juice. Simmer uncovered for 15–18 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly while the meatballs become ultra-tender. -
Rest and serve:
Finally, remove from heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Variations
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With lamb: Replace half or all of the beef with ground lamb for a richer, traditional Greek flavor.
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Vegetarian version: Substitute meatballs with chickpea and herb balls, using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
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Creamier version: Additionally, whisk in 60 ml warm cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a velvety finish.
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Spicier version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or white pepper to the meat mixture.
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Seasonal swap: Moreover, add baby spinach or artichoke hearts during the final simmer for a seasonal touch.
Tips
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Gentle mixing: Always mix the meat lightly; overworking will result in tough meatballs.
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Controlled heat: Simmer gently rather than boiling, as high heat can split the lemon sauce.
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Balanced acidity: Add lemon juice gradually and taste; however, too much acidity can overpower the dish.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: Reheat slowly over low heat, adding a splash of stock if needed to maintain sauce texture.
Why Ultra-Tender Greek Meatballs Simmered in Fresh Lemon Sauce Are So Comforting
The harmony between tender meat, aromatic herbs, and fresh lemon creates a dish that feels both nourishing and refined. Furthermore, the gentle simmer allows flavors to meld seamlessly, making Ultra-Tender Greek Meatballs Simmered in Fresh Lemon Sauce a timeless recipe that suits both everyday cooking and special gatherings.
