Lamb Meatballs with Mint Yogurt Sauce
Tender lamb meatballs seasoned with garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs, roasted until golden, then served with a cooling mint yogurt sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, wrapped in pita, or over a fresh salad bowl.
Time
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: ~40 minutes
Servings:4
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450 g) ground lamb
1 small onion, grated or very finely minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Mint Yogurt Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, grated
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare sauce – Mix Greek yogurt, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt & pepper in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
Make meatballs – In a large bowl, combine lamb, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, spices, salt & pepper. Mix gently (don’t overwork). Shape into 16–18 small meatballs.
Cook meatballs –
Oven method (easiest): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake 18–20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Pan method: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (8–10 minutes).
Serve – Plate meatballs with mint yogurt sauce. Garnish with extra herbs. Serve with pita, couscous, or a fresh salad.
Notes & Tips
For extra flavor: Add 1 tsp cinnamon or allspice (common in Greek/Turkish-style lamb dishes).
Lighter option: Swap lamb for ground turkey or chicken.
Meal prep friendly: Meatballs freeze well before or after cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes—use a coconut or almond yogurt alternative.
Q: Can I cook the meatballs on the grill?
Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning to char evenly.
Q: What pairs well with these meatballs?
Greek salad, lemon rice, roasted veggies, or a mezze platter with hummus and olives.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~380
Protein: 27g
Carbs: 10g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 1g