Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I first tasted Youvarlakia Avgolemono, I was transported to a sun-drenched Mediterranean kitchen, the air filled with the comforting scent of simmering herbs and citrus. This recipe for Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace that brings families together. These meatballs are tender, with a delightful balance of rich flavors that are perfect for cozy dinners. With a quick prep and minimal cooking time, this family-friendly meal allows you to savor the joys of homemade comfort food without the fuss. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself after a long day, these Greek meatballs will fill your heart—and your plate. Curious to learn how to recreate this culinary hug? Let’s dive in! Why are these meatballs so special? Tradition: Youvarlakia Avgolemono embodies the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality, perfect for gatherings. Elevated Flavor: A silky lemon sauce elevates this comforting dish with a zesty twist that dazzles the palate. Quick Prep: With simple steps that anyone can master, you can have dinner on the table in no time! Versatile: Enjoy as a hearty meal alone or pair with crusty bread and Greek salad for a complete feast. Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves meatballs, making this dish a guaranteed hit at family dinners or gatherings. Discover more about this comforting classic and transform your meals with these family-friendly options. Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce • A delightful taste of tradition! For the Meatballs Ground Beef – Main protein; swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Grated Onion – Adds moisture and flavor; use yellow or sweet onion for the best taste. Arborio Rice (uncooked) – Crucial for binding and keeping meatballs tender; don’t use cooked rice. Fresh Parsley – Enhances freshness; try substituting with fresh mint for a different twist. Fresh Dill – Complements flavors beautifully; can be swapped with thyme for a more savory essence. Egg – Binds the mixture; for a vegan option, use a flax egg, but texture may vary. Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to your taste preference. Dried Oregano – Adds a lovely earthy note; recommended for an authentic flavor. For the Sauce Chicken Broth – The base for simmering meatballs; opt for low-sodium to control saltiness. Olive Oil – Adds richness to the broth; butter works as a tasty substitute if desired. Eggs (for avgolemono) – Essential for a silky, creamy sauce; do not skip to keep that luscious texture. Lemon Juice – Provides the tanginess; fresh juice from about 2 lemons is best for vibrant flavor. These Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce will bring the warmth of Greek cuisine right to your table, turning your meal into a delightful experience. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, uncooked arborio rice, fresh parsley, fresh dill, one egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands, gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should be moist and well-combined. This essential step sets the foundation for your Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce. Step 2: Shape and Chill the Meatballs Form the meat mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once shaped, cover the tray with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. Chilling helps the meatballs retain their shape during cooking, ensuring they remain tender and juicy. Step 3: Simmer the Meatballs In a wide pot, pour in the chicken broth and add olive oil, bringing it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Carefully add the chilled meatballs to the pot, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let them simmer quietly for about 30 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully. Step 4: Whisk the Avgolemono Sauce While the meatballs are simmering, crack the eggs into a clean mixing bowl and whisk vigorously with the freshly squeezed lemon juice until well combined. This avgolemono sauce will give the dish its signature creaminess. Cleverly temper the egg-lemon mixture by slowly adding a ladle of hot broth from the pot while whisking continuously to prevent curdling. Step 5: Combine and Thicken the Sauce Once tempered, carefully pour the avgolemono mixture back into the pot with the simmering meatballs. Stir the pot gently over very low heat for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Be vigilant not to let it boil, as this could curdle the eggs, ruining the luscious texture of your Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Once the sauce has taken on a creamy consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with additional fresh dill or lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor. These comforting Greek meatballs are perfect over rice or alongside crusty bread, making for an inviting meal that brings the heart of Greek cuisine to your table. Make Ahead Options These Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance—simply shape them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The avgolemono sauce can also be made and stored separately up to 3 days ahead, keeping the flavors fresh when you’re ready to serve. To maintain quality, refrigerate each component separately to prevent sogginess. When it’s time to eat, gently reheat the meatballs in chicken broth while whisking in the avgolemono sauce over low heat until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort! Storage Tips for Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce Fridge: Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: Freeze chilled meatballs without sauce for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and simmer gently in chicken broth. Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat the meatballs in a pot on low heat. If desired, prepare fresh avgolemono sauce to keep the dish luscious and vibrant. Batch Cooking: Consider making extra to freeze for quick, cozy meals. Just adjust cooking time when reheating to ensure the juiciest Greek meatballs are enjoyed at their best! What to Serve with Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce There’s nothing quite like creating a complete meal that enhances the comforting flavors of your favorite dishes. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture balances the zesty lemon sauce, making each bite a delightful experience. Smooth and rich, this pairing adds the ultimate comfort. Quinoa Salad: A fresh quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta adds a wonderful crunch and vibrant flavors, complementing the meatballs beautifully. The bright elements lighten the meal, promoting a sense of freshness. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies offer a satisfying caramelization that pairs perfectly with the juicy meatballs. Their crispy texture provides a lovely contrast to the tender meat. Greek Salad: Crisp greens, olives, and tangy feta create a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs, enhancing your Mediterranean experience at the table. This classic dish adds both color and flavor to the meal. Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the silky lemon sauce. Every bite becomes a treasured experience, inviting you to savor the rich broth. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy yogurt dip adds an incredible layer of flavor. The refreshing mint and cucumber in tzatziki balances the warmth of the meatballs, making them even more enjoyable. Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, serves as an excellent complement, enhancing the dish’s fresh lemon notes and refreshing your palate. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and sweet fruit salad made with seasonal fruits clears your palate between bites. This bright touch keeps the meal cheerful and lively. Baklava for Dessert: To end on a sweet note, this flaky pastry with honey and nuts brings a deliciously rich conclusion to your Greek meal, making it a festive celebration for the senses. Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce Variations Feel free to get creative and twist this recipe to suit your taste buds while keeping it delicious! Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner meatball. Herb Twist: Experiment with herbs by mixing in fresh mint or thyme for an aromatic surprise to your meatballs. Vegan Option: Use a flax egg instead of a traditional egg; it might change the texture slightly but will still be tasty! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a bit of heat and extra flavor. Cheesy Delight: Fold in some grated feta cheese into the meatball mixture for a rich, tangy burst in every bite. Gluten-Free: Ensure the broth and any extra ingredients are gluten-free to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Vegetable Boost: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini into the meatball mix for added nutrients. Citrus Twist: Infuse some zest from the lemon into the meat mixture for an extended citrus flavor that complements the sauce beautifully. With these variations, you can enjoy the Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce in multiple ways, adding your own unique touch to a classic favorite! Looking for more ways to enhance your meal? Check out these delightful family-friendly options for inspiration! Expert Tips for Juiciest Greek Meatballs • Rice Matters: Ensure you’re using uncooked arborio rice; cooked rice can result in gummy meatballs and affect their texture. • Egg Tempering: Always temper the egg-lemon mixture with hot broth to avoid curdling. Whisk vigorously for a smooth sauce—you want that silky finish in your Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce. • Cooking Vessel: Use a heavy-bottomed stainless steel or ceramic pot for even heat distribution. Avoid shallow nonstick pans, as they can lead to uneven cooking and texture issues. • Space them Out: When simmering the meatballs, don’t overcrowd the pot. Allowing space lets them cook evenly without breaking apart, ensuring you’re left with tender delights. • Don’t Rush the Sauce: Stir the avgolemono over very low heat until thickened; boiling will ruin the creamy texture. Patience is key to achieving that luxurious sauce! Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce Recipe FAQs How should I select the best ground beef for the meatballs? Absolutely! When choosing ground beef, opt for grass-fed or organic options if possible. Look for 80/20 ratio (80% lean, 20% fat) for the juiciest meatballs while maintaining moisture. Avoid beef that appears discolored or has dark spots, as this can indicate spoilage. What’s the best way to store leftover meatballs? Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they have cooled completely before sealing to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on low heat in a pot. Can I freeze the meatballs, and how should I do it? Yes, you can! To freeze the meatballs, shape them and chill them first. Once chilled, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently simmer in chicken broth until warmed through. How can I prevent the avgolemono sauce from curdling? Good question! To prevent curdling, it’s crucial to temper the egg-lemon mixture. Here’s how: whisk the eggs and lemon juice together, then slowly add a ladle of hot broth while whisking continuously to raise the temperature of the eggs. After that, gradually mix it back into the pot with the meatballs, stirring over very low heat. This method keeps your sauce silky and luscious! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes, indeed! If you’re making this for someone with dietary restrictions, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for lower fat content. For a vegan option, you can replace the meat with plant-based meat and use a flax egg to bind everything together. Also, ensure your broth and any additional ingredients are gluten-free if necessary! Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce for a Cozy Feast This recipe for Juiciest Greek Meatballs in Lemon Sauce combines tender meatballs with a silky lemon sauce, delivering a warm Mediterranean embrace perfect for family dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 4 meatballsCourse: DinnerCuisine: GreekCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meatballs1 lb Ground Beef or ground turkey/chicken for lighter option1 medium Grated Onion use yellow or sweet onion for best flavor1/2 cup Arborio Rice uncooked; do not use cooked rice1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or fresh mint for a different twist2 Tbsp Fresh Dill or thyme for a more savory essence1 large Egg for vegan option, use a flax egg1 tsp Salt adjust to taste1/2 tsp Black Pepper adjust to taste1 Tbsp Dried Oregano for authentic flavorFor the Sauce4 cups Chicken Broth opt for low-sodium2 Tbsp Olive Oil butter works as a substitute2 large Eggs for avgolemono sauce1/2 cup Lemon Juice freshly squeezed from about 2 lemons Equipment Large bowlParchment-lined baking sheetWide potMixing Bowl Method InstructionsPrepare the meatball mixture by combining ground beef, grated onion, uncooked arborio rice, fresh parsley, fresh dill, one egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined.Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.Simmer chicken broth and olive oil in a pot, then add the meatballs and cook for 30 minutes until they reach 160°F.Whisk eggs with lemon juice in a bowl and temper the mixture using hot broth before adding it back to the pot.Stir the avgolemono sauce into the pot and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes over very low heat.Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with dill or lemon wedges. Nutrition Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg NotesEnsure you're using uncooked arborio rice. Temper the egg-lemon mixture with hot broth to avoid curdling. Don't overcrowd the pot for even cooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
