Save Juicy, herbed meatballs simmered in a savory tomato base, topped with a creamy lemon-feta sauce—an easy weeknight dinner bursting with Mediterranean flavor.
I first served this delightful dish on a busy weeknight and received rave reviews from everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs: 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef or lamb, 1 small onion finely grated, 2 cloves garlic minced, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 2 tbsp fresh mint chopped, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 large egg, 60 g (½ cup) breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed), 2 tbsp milk
- For the Cooking Liquid: 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 120 ml (½ cup) beef or chicken broth, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp salt
- For the Lemon-Feta Sauce: 120 g (½ cup) Greek yogurt, 80 g (⅔ cup) crumbled feta cheese, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped, 1 tbsp olive oil, Black pepper to taste
- To Serve: Fresh parsley or dill chopped, Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, salt, pepper, egg, breadcrumbs, and milk. Mix gently until just combined& do not overmix.
- Step 2:
- Shape mixture into 16–18 golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Step 3:
- In the Instant Pot, select Sauté mode. Add olive oil, then brown the meatballs in batches (about 2 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Step 4:
- Pour in canned tomatoes, broth, oregano, and salt. Stir and scrape any browned bits from the bottom.
- Step 5:
- Return meatballs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce.
- Step 6:
- Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing. Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook for 8 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Quick-release the pressure carefully. Remove the lid and let meatballs rest in the sauce for 2–3 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Meanwhile, whisk together all Lemon-Feta Sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
- Step 9:
- Serve meatballs topped with tomato sauce and a generous spoonful of lemon-feta sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
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Save This recipe always brings everyone together at our dinner table, creating joyful memories with every bite.
Required Tools
Instant Pot (or other electric pressure cooker), Mixing bowls, Whisk, Tongs or slotted spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs, dairy (feta cheese, yogurt, milk), gluten (breadcrumbs use gluten-free if needed). Always check labels for allergens if using commercial products.
Nutritional Information
Calories 420, Total Fat 25 g, Carbohydrates 16 g, Protein 33 g (per serving)
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Save Serve immediately for best flavor and enjoy a touch of Mediterranean sunshine in your meal.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of meat can I use for the meatballs?
Ground beef, lamb, turkey, or chicken all work well, with turkey or chicken offering a lighter option.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones to accommodate dietary needs.
- → How does the lemon-feta sauce complement the meatballs?
The sauce provides a creamy, tangy brightness from yogurt, feta, and lemon that balances the savory tomato and herbs.
- → Is it necessary to brown the meatballs before cooking?
Browning adds a richer flavor and firmer texture, but you can skip this step for convenience.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
Warm pita, rice, or a fresh Greek salad complement the flavors and round out the meal.