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Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) with Herb Butter Recipe

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4.2 from 20 reviews

Delicious and aromatic Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) made with ground beef, infused with traditional herbs like oregano and mint, and baked to perfection. These meatballs are topped with a flavorful herb butter that adds a rich, savory finish, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk (or water)
  • 1 yellow onion (grated)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
  • 2 teaspoons dried mint (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1.5 lbs. lean ground beef

Herb Butter

  • 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as oregano, mint, dill, chives, and/or parsley)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F to prepare for baking the meatballs.
  2. Prepare breadcrumb mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, milk (or water), and grated onion along with its juices to create a moist base for the meatballs.
  3. Add seasonings: Add the egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried mint, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl and stir everything together until combined.
  4. Incorporate ground beef: Add the lean ground beef to the bowl and thoroughly mix all ingredients, ideally using your hands for even distribution, or a spoon if preferred.
  5. Form meatballs: Using a large disher scoop or your hands, shape the meat mixture into meatballs and place them on a rimmed baking sheet.
  6. Prepare herb butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the chopped fresh herbs and mix well.
  7. Apply herb butter: Spoon the herb butter mixture evenly over each meatball, ensuring they are well coated for flavor.
  8. Bake meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs at 375 degrees F for 30 minutes until cooked through and browned.
  9. Serve: Remove from oven and serve the meatballs drizzled with the buttery herb juices from the pan for a delicious finish.

Notes

  • You can substitute milk with water for a lighter option.
  • Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
  • Be careful not to overmix the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
  • These meatballs can be cooked in a skillet as an alternative method but baking yields a juicier result.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/greek-meatballs-keftedes-with-herb-butter-recipe/