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Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) with Herb Butter

Delightful meatballs infused with fresh herbs and topped with rich herb butter, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatball Mixture
  • 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs These provide the perfect texture.
  • 1/2 cup milk (or water) Helps to moisten the breadcrumbs.
  • 1 medium yellow onion (grated) Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 large egg Binds the meat mixture.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) Enhances flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or 2 tablespoons fresh) Robust flavor synonymous with Greek cuisine.
  • 2 teaspoons dried mint (or 2 tablespoons fresh) Adds freshness and unique flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt Enhances natural flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds subtle warmth.
  • 1.5 lbs. lean ground beef Star ingredient for rich flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (oregano, mint, dill, chives, parsley) Elevates flavor.
Herb Butter
  • 4 tablespoons butter (melted) Enhances the meatballs.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together 3/4 cup of plain breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of milk, and the grated onion along with its juices.
  3. To the breadcrumb mixture, add 1 egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of dried mint, 1.5 teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
  4. Add 1.5 lbs. of lean ground beef to the mixture and mix everything together until fully incorporated.
  5. Using a large disher scoop, portion out the mixture onto a rimmed baking sheet.
Making the Herb Butter
  1. In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of melted butter with 2 tablespoons of your chosen fresh herbs.
  2. Spoon the herb butter mixture evenly over the meatballs.
Baking
  1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and slightly browned.
  2. Drizzle the meatballs with the buttery juices from the bottom of the pan before serving.

Notes

Let the meat mixture sit for 20-30 minutes before forming the meatballs to enhance the texture. Add crushed red pepper for spice, or mix in allspice or cinnamon for a traditional flavor.