Why I love these Greek meatballs
When I started my meatball mission, I didn’t think I would get around to making these Greek meatballs – mostly because I was hesitant about not being about to use feta cheese. But, the more I felt like I was being held back by the no dairy thing, the more I felt compelled to make them.
And, now I’m so glad I did. They’re super flavorful and remind me so much of a Greek gyros, which were one of my favorite late night meals in college. They’re also a little bit like the kebabs with sauce blanc we ate regularly our first year in France.
To make them dairy free, I used Panko breadcrumbs (always check the label though), and I made a dairy free tzatziki sauce with vegan sour cream or yogurt.
Searching for more meatball recipes? Baked Italian meatballs / Giant meatballs baked in tomato sauce / Meatball satay with peanut sauce /
Ingredients:
Making changes to a recipe can result in recipe failure. Any substitutions listed below are simple changes that I believe will work in this recipe, but results are not guaranteed.
- Breadcrumbs – Most panko breadcrumbs are dairy-free, but it’s always a good idea to read the label just in case. Some brands may sneak in milk-based additives.
- Egg – The egg is essential for binding the meatballs since you’re not using cheese or any dairy-heavy fillers. It keeps everything moist and helps the meatballs hold their shape.
The following is a detailed overview of the recipe steps with added tips and tricks for recipe success. For a simplified and printable version, including ingredient amounts and more formal instructions, see the recipe card below.
How to make Greek meatballs
Combine the meatball ingredients. In a large bowl, mix the ingredients together, using your hands (or a fork), until they’re evenly combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat or you’ll end up with tough meatballs.
Shape the meatballs. Roll the meat into 2-inch meatballs. Use a cookie scoop to ensure your meatballs are uniform in size. Place them on a parchment lined baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs. Bake your keftedes in a 400˚F oven for about 20 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165˚F and the outside of the meatballs should be golden brown.
Tips for making keftedes
- Keep your Greek meatballs cold to prevent breaking down right away in the oven. This helps retain moisture in your meatballs.
- To avoid tough meatballs, don’t over mix or squeeze your meatballs too tight.
- Wet your hands to prevent the meatballs from sticking to you when you’re shaping them.
What to serve with Greek meatballs
I like to serve my keftedes as a bowl style meal with Israeli couscous, but you could also use them to fill pitas for a gyro sandwich or wrap. Whatever you prefer.
- Tzatziki sauce (or vegan tzatziki)
- Pita or garlic naan
- Cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion
- Couscous
- Feta cheese (or dairy free feta, such as Violife)
- Hummus
Greek Meatballs (Keftedes)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 tablespoons dried minced onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400˚F (200˚C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper,
- Mix the meatball ingredients in a large bowl, using your hands, until evenly combined.
- Scoop mixture and roll into 2 inch meatballs.
- Bake meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they have reached 165˚F.
- Remove from oven and let meatballs for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Like this? Leave a comment below!
Did you mean 2 TBS each of Mint & Oregano?
Yes! Thanks for catching that!
It says there is a gluten free option, but I don’t see any recommendation on a substitute for the breadcrumbs.
You can substitute any gluten free breadcrumb. It will depend on what options are available at your local grocery store.