Name: Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground lamb; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup sweet onion, grated or very finely chopped; 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 Tbsp. fresh mint, finely chopped; 1/2 tsp. salt; 1/8 tsp. black pepper; 1 tsp. cumin; 1 tsp. coriander; 1 tsp. cinnamon; 1/2 tsp. allspice; 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional for spice); 1/2 tsp. cloves; 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional for spice); 1/2 tsp. oregano; 1 egg, slightly beaten; 1/3 cup regular breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup milk, 1 or 2%; 3 large eggs; Juice of 3 lemons; 2 cups chicken broth, boiling; Fresh dill, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 8 reviews

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If you love bold flavors with a fresh, tangy twist, then the Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe is destined to become one of your absolute favorites. These tender, spiced lamb meatballs are bathed in a luscious, silky lemon dill sauce that perfectly balances the rich, savory notes with bright citrus and herbal freshness. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated, making it ideal for family dinners or impressing guests without a fuss. Every bite delivers layers of aroma and warmth, thanks to a blend of traditional Mediterranean spices and fresh herbs that lift the whole experience to something truly memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A flat rectangular package of raw ground meat with a pink color and textured surface sits in the center on a white marbled surface. Surrounding it are various ingredients: a white bowl with different colorful spices layered side by side of orange, beige, and brown shades, a small wooden bowl filled with chopped white onions, and a white bowl holding a pale tan-colored ingredient. A white plate with a single white egg is placed near the bottom left, with a cluster of fresh green parsley below it. Near the top right, a bunch of fresh mint leaves, a whole bulb of garlic, and a small white pitcher of milk are arranged. Three black measuring spoons are placed above the meat package. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple yet incredibly essential ingredients that come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures you’ll adore. Each component plays a vital role, from the ground lamb’s hearty richness to the fresh herbs that brighten the dish and the spices that bring depth and warmth.

Ground lamb: The star protein with a rich and juicy flavor base perfect for meatballs.
Garlic cloves, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic kick that infuses the meatballs.
Sweet onion, grated or finely chopped: Offers subtle sweetness and moisture to keep meatballs tender.
Fresh parsley, finely chopped: Provides a fresh, green herby note that lightens the dish.
Fresh mint, finely chopped: A distinctive Mediterranean touch with a cooling effect.
Salt and black pepper: Key seasonings that enhance all other flavors naturally.
Cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, oregano: A warm, fragrant spice blend that creates authentic Mediterranean depth.
Cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle, spicy heat.
Egg: Helps bind the meatballs for a perfect shape and firm texture.
Breadcrumbs and milk: Moisten and lighten the meat mixture ensuring tender results.
Large eggs for sauce: The base for the silky lemon sauce’s luscious texture.
Juice of fresh lemons: Delivers bright acidity to balance the rich lamb.
Chicken broth, boiling: Adds savory depth and thins the lemon sauce.
Fresh dill, chopped: The herb that gives this sauce its signature fresh, grassy finish.

How to Make Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Meatballs

Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F and lightly greasing two baking sheets to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb with minced garlic, grated onion, fresh herbs, and the full aromatic spice blend. Adding the egg, breadcrumbs, and milk at this stage gives the mixture just the right binding and moisture, ensuring the meatballs come out tender but hold their shape perfectly.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs

Use a cookie scoop or teaspoon to form small, evenly sized meatballs and arrange them neatly on the prepared baking sheets. This helps them cook evenly and with a lovely uniformity. Pop these beauties into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160˚F. The baking method is so easy and hands-off, delivering juicy meatballs with minimal effort.

Step 3: Whisk and Temper the Lemon Dill Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the eggs and fresh lemon juice in a medium bowl until frothy — this vibrant lemon mixture forms the sauce’s heart. To prevent scrambling, the boiling chicken broth is added gradually while continuing to whisk, tempering the eggs gently. Slow and steady is the key here to a silky smooth sauce.

Step 4: Warm and Finish the Sauce

Pour the tempered lemon mixture into a saucepan and warm over low heat for about 5 minutes. Remember, do not bring it to a boil; just keep it warm so it thickens gently. Finally, stir in fresh chopped dill for that aromatic finish that ties the whole dish together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Gently transfer your perfectly cooked meatballs into a shallow bowl filled with the warm lemon dill sauce. This allows each meatball to soak up vibrantly herbed, citrusy goodness so every bite is bursting with flavor.

How to Serve Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe

A long white plate holds several round meatballs speckled with green herbs, each pierced with a wooden skewer tied at the top. The meatballs look well cooked with a slightly rough texture. Small green parsley leaves are placed around some meatballs on the plate. The plate sits on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra dill over the dish for an inviting pop of green and herbal freshness. You can even add a few thin lemon slices for visual appeal and an extra hint of citrus aroma. These garnishes elevate the plate visually and aromatically, making the eating experience feel just a little more special.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous, fragrant basmati rice, or a warm pita bread to scoop up every bit of that luscious lemon dill sauce. For a lighter touch, a crisp Greek salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables add vibrant color, texture, and balance on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the meatballs over creamy polenta or alongside a dollop of tangy tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. You can also turn this recipe into a fun appetizer by skewering the meatballs and serving with sauce on the side for dipping at your next party. The possibilities are endless and so delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe store wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days when kept in an airtight container. Simply place both meatballs and sauce together or separately, depending on your preference, and enjoy delicious meals throughout the week without extra cooking.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet first to prevent sticking and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, keeping them fresh for up to three months. It’s best to freeze the lemon dill sauce separately in a sealed container and thaw gently before use to maintain its bright flavor and silky texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the meatballs gently in the lemon dill sauce over low heat on the stove to keep them moist and flavorful, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, defrost overnight in the fridge first for best results and then warm slowly to preserve the delicate texture of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I substitute beef or chicken for lamb in this recipe?

Absolutely! While lamb offers a traditional Mediterranean richness, you can use ground beef or chicken as alternatives. Just note that the flavor profile will shift slightly, and you might want to adjust spices and cooking times accordingly.

Is the lemon dill sauce similar to a traditional sauce? How is it made?

The lemon dill sauce here is a bright and smooth emulsion made by whisking eggs and lemon juice, tempered with hot chicken broth, then gently warmed to create a velvety texture. It’s different from a cream-based sauce and brings fresh, zesty brightness that pairs perfectly with the tender lamb meatballs.

Can I make the meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture might be a touch different, but the flavor will remain just as wonderful.

How spicy are these meatballs? Can I adjust the heat?

The recipe includes optional cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to add a mild kick. If you prefer less spice, feel free to omit or reduce these ingredients. You can always add a pinch if you want a little warmth without overwhelming the other flavors.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers for lunch or a quick dinner?

Leftover meatballs with lemon dill sauce are fantastic served in a pita pocket with fresh veggies or tossed with a simple pasta or grain salad. They also reheat beautifully for a fast, flavorful meal that feels anything but leftovers.

Final Thoughts

It’s always exciting to discover a recipe that hits all the right notes—comfort, freshness, and stunning flavor—and the Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe does just that. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs will bring warmth and zest to your table. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones; it’s one of those dishes that truly feels like a hug on a plate.

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