The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

Name: The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely grated; 1/4 cup arborio rice, uncooked; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 egg; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 eggs; Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup); Salt and pepper to taste

December 13, 2025 by Daniel Carter

Juicy Greek meatballs in lemon sauce served on a plate

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The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce: A Dish to Whisk You Away to the Mediterranean

There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that wraps you in a warm embrace, and The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce does just that. Picture yourself stepping into a sunlit kitchen, where the smell of sautéed garlic mingles with zesty lemon and the earthy aroma of fresh herbs—it’s enough to whisk you away to a seaside taverna in Greece. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish invites everyone to gather around the table, savoring the flavors while creating memories that linger.

As you ladle the velvety lemon sauce over the tender meatballs, the bright yellow color dances in contrast to the deep golden hues of the olive oil, evoking the sun-kissed charm of the Mediterranean coast. It’s a dish that offers both elegance and simplicity, making it a staple for both new cooks and experienced chefs alike. So, whether you’re sharing it with close friends on a weeknight or serving it up for a holiday feast, these meatballs are destined to become a cherished piece of your culinary repertoire.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the cooking journey, let’s gather the essential ingredients and tools to create this delightful dish. Each item plays a crucial role in bringing the rich flavors to life, creating a performance worthy of applause.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely grated
1/4 cup arborio rice, uncooked
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 egg
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 eggs
Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
Salt and pepper to taste

Tools

To whip up these tasty meatballs, gather the following kitchen tools:

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking dish
Skillet
Spoon for mixing
Ladle for serving

How to Make It

Creating The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce is an experience best savored slowly. From mixing the ingredients to watching as they simmer in a fragrant broth, each step is infused with joyful anticipation.

Prep the Base

Start your culinary adventure by combining the ground beef and finely grated onion in a large mixing bowl. The sweet scent of the onion lightly mingling with the savory aroma of the beef creates a mouthwatering base. As you add the uncooked arborio rice, freshly chopped parsley and dill, and the egg, you’ll begin to see a vibrant tapestry of flavors taking form. The herbs add a pop of green, bringing freshness and brightness. Gently mix the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. The mixture will be slightly sticky, hinting at the delicious meatballs to come.

Shape the Meatballs

With your mixture ready, it’s time to form them into golf ball-sized meatballs. As you roll the mixture between your palms, the feel of the mixture will become a comforting sensation, a tactile reminder of the deliciousness to come. Place each meatball on a tray, and just before cooking, chill them in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This little step of patience allows the flavors to meld together more intensely, while also helping the meatballs maintain their shape when you cook them.

Simmer & Cook

In a wide pot, bring together the chicken broth and olive oil, letting them warm up gently. As they heat, a beautiful golden sheen develops, enticing your senses and hinting at the comforting broth that will cradle the meatballs. Carefully place the chilled meatballs into the simmering broth, allowing them to nestle gently into their flavorful bath. Cover the pot and let the meatballs cook over low heat for about 30 minutes. The warmth fills your kitchen, creating an environment that feels both cozy and inviting, as the broth bubbles softly, enveloping the meatballs in a fragrant embrace.

Make the Lemon Sauce

Now comes the moment of transformation. In a separate bowl, whisk together the two eggs and the vibrant lemon juice, their bright colors a reminder of summer sunshine. As you temper this mixture with hot broth, you’re ensuring that the sauce won’t curdle, creating a smooth, silky finish. Gradually pour the tempered mixture back into the pot with the meatballs, stirring gently. Keep the heat very low as you watch the sauce thicken slightly, infusing the dish with an unmistakable tangy brightness. This is where the magic happens; the lemon sauce clings lovingly to each meatball, ensuring every bite is a refreshing burst of flavor.

Serve & Enjoy

Once the sauce has thickened to a luscious coat, it’s time to serve this beautiful dish warm. Ladle the meatballs and the silky lemon sauce onto plates or into bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of extra dill or a wedge of lemon for an additional zing. The final presentation is a feast for the eyes, and as you take that first bite, the explosion of flavors dances across your palate—the tender meatballs, the rich broth, and the zesty lemon harmonizing in perfect union.

Creative Twists

While this recipe shines on its own, there’s always room to personalize it according to your taste or the season.

Seasonal Touches: In summer, add chopped zucchini or cherry tomatoes to the broth for a burst of freshness. In the fall, a pinch of nutmeg could lend a warm, cozy undertone to the sauce.
Flavor Upgrades: Experiment by incorporating spices such as cumin or coriander into the meatball mixture for an unexpected twist. A drizzle of honey in the lemon sauce can balance tanginess with sweetness wonderfully.
Protein Swaps: Try using ground chicken or turkey for a lighter variation, or even lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian-friendly option that still delivers on texture and flavor.
Herb Variations: You can switch up the herbs, introducing mint or cilantro to the meatballs for an exciting flavor profile that showcases your creativity.

Final Inspiration

With every bite of The Softest and Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce, you’re not just savoring a meal; you’re celebrating the beauty of food shared among loved ones. This dish, with its comforting warmth and refreshing zing, is more than a recipe; it’s a memory in the making. Whether you whip it up for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family, you’ll find that it’s bound to become a beloved favorite, making its way into your seasonal rotation.

So, take a moment to embrace the process, pour your heart into it, and let this delightful recipe invigorate your cooking journey. Gather around the table, share laughter and stories, and let each bite transport you to a sunlit afternoon in Greece.

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