Lebanese Meatballs
Lebanese meatballs are flavorful, aromatic bites made with spiced ground beef, served with creamy yogurt sauce, perfect for sharing or as a hearty main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in 1 tablespoon butter until transparent.
- Cool slightly.
- Mix sautéed onion with ground beef, beaten egg, soaked bread, salt, and pepper.
- Shape into 1 1/4-inch balls and roll them in dry bread crumbs.
- Brown meatballs slowly in remaining 2 tablespoons butter; drain off all but 2 tablespoons fat.
- Gently spoon plain yogurt over the meatballs.
- Simmer for 20 minutes and serve hot over noodles or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or chopped parsley to the meat mixture. If you don't have fresh bread, substitute with breadcrumbs soaked in milk. For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. To maintain moisture, avoid overcooking the meatballs; they should be just cooked through. These meatballs are reminiscent of Mediterranean recipes, making them versatile for various cuisines.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Lebanese meatballs hot over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with a side of Greek rice for a complete dish. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables complement the flavors well, making it a balanced and satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lebanese Meatballs contains roughly 340 calories, with 9g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2153mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. Shape them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the shaped meatballs and cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. They go well with rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad. You could also serve them with pita bread and a side of tzatziki or hummus for a more Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute with ground lamb, turkey, or chicken for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of cooking times as different meats may have varying levels of fat and moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).