Lamb & Beef Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground lamb meat
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1/2 each Onion
minced
- 1-2 Tbsp. Fresh mint)
chiffonade/small chopped (Optional
- 1 Tbsp. Dried oregano
or Italian herb mix
- 1/4 Cup Parmesan)
shredded (optional
- 1/4 Cup Breadcrumbs)
(gluten-free if desired
- 1 each Egg
- 1/4 Cup Flour)
for dredging (optional
- 2-3 Tbsp. Olive oil
- To Taste Salt and black pepper
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper (for easier clean-up) and set aside.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl add the lamb, beef, onion, herbs, breadcrumbs, parmesan, and eggs and using your hands mix it well until combined.
- 3
Roll the meatballs: Scoop about 3 Tablespoons or so (depending how large you want them) of meat and using your hands, roll into a ball. Place on a plate. Continue to roll meatballs until all the meat has been used up.
- 4
Heat a saute pan on medium-high heat, add about 2-3 Tablespoons of oil so it coats the bottom of the pan.
- 5
Optional Step - roll the meatballs in flour and shake off the excess before cooking. This will help to brown the meat.This step can be skipped and the meatballs will still sear nicely if you have the heat high enough.
- 6
When the pan is hot, add the meatballs to the pan and sear, about 3-4 minutes or so. Try to leave a little space between each if possible.
- 7
When the meatballs are a deep brown then flip them using tongs and sear on the other side, another 3-4 minutes or so.
- 8
Transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet (they’ll still be raw in the center) and finish cooking them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes. Check a meatball by cutting it in half, if it’s not cooked to your liking then continue to bake for a few more minutes.
- 9
Remove and enjoy right away or let them cool and use for meal prep!
Lamb & Beef Meatballs (Keftedes) Recipe
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About this Recipe
Searching for the ultimate homemade meatballs that are packed with rich flavor and incredibly tender? These Lamb & Beef Meatballs, traditionally known as Keftedes, combine succulent meats with aromatic herbs for a truly satisfying meal that will become a new family favorite. This recipe elevates a classic comfort food, bringing authentic, savory tastes right to your kitchen.
The secret to these deeply flavorful Keftedes lies in the harmonious blend of ground lamb and beef, which provides a wonderfully moist texture and a deep, complex taste. Fresh mint and dried oregano infuse every bite with Mediterranean warmth, creating a fragrant aroma that distinguishes them from ordinary meatballs. The addition of an egg and breadcrumbs ensures they stay tender and juicy, preventing the common pitfall of dry, crumbly meatballs.
Prepare for a delightful culinary experience. You'll bite into a savory, succulent meatball, with the richness of the lamb perfectly balanced by the beef. The subtle kick of fresh mint and the earthy notes of oregano are prominent, creating a vibrant flavor profile. If you choose to dredge them in flour and pan-fry them in olive oil, you'll achieve a delicate, golden-brown crust that adds a lovely textural contrast to the tender interior. This is a comforting dish that feels both hearty and fresh, perfect for any home cook looking to impress with minimal fuss. For those with dietary considerations, this recipe is easily adaptable to be naturally gluten-free if you opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Easily adapt these Lamb & Beef Meatballs to your pantry or preferences. While fresh mint adds a bright, unique touch, it’s entirely optional and can be omitted if you prefer. If you don't have dried oregano, an Italian herb mix works beautifully as a substitute. For those avoiding dairy, simply omit the shredded Parmesan. The flour for dredging is also optional; you can skip it if you prefer a less crispy exterior.
These versatile Keftedes are perfect whether nestled into a warm pita, tossed with your favorite pasta and a simple tomato sauce, or served as a flavorful appetizer alongside a cooling yogurt dip.