Meatballs Lemon Sauce: Divine 1-Hour Meal

Name: Meatballs Lemon Sauce: Divine 1-Hour Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: For the Meatballs:; 200 grams Ground pork (can substitute with ground lamb); 400 grams Lean ground beef; 1 large Egg; 100 grams Crustless bread (provides moisture); 125 ml White wine (can substitute with milk for non-alcoholic option); 100 grams Minced onion; 4 cloves Minced garlic; 0.5 teaspoon Ground cumin; 1 teaspoon Dried oregano (plus extra for serving); 2 teaspoons Dried parsley (fresh minced can be used); 1 teaspoon Fine sea salt (plus extra for sauce); 0.5 teaspoon Ground pepper (plus extra for sauce); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for frying); For the Lemon Sauce:; 4 tablespoons Butter; 4 tablespoons All-purpose flour; 2 cups Hot water or stock (vegetable, beef, or chicken stock work well); 8-10 tablespoons Lemon juice (adjust to taste)

by inass sped

August 25, 2025

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Meatballs Lemon Sauce has always been my go-to for a weeknight meal that feels special. I remember my Yiayia making them, the kitchen filling with the most incredible aroma of garlic, oregano, and that bright, zesty lemon. These Greek-inspired meatballs, or Keftedes, are so tender and flavorful, bathed in a simple yet elegant tangy lemon sauce. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy evenings. The combination of savory meat and that bright, buttery sauce is just divine. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Meatballs Lemon Sauce

The flavor is absolutely divine – savory, tender meatballs meet a bright, tangy lemon sauce.
It’s incredibly quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast.
This dish is surprisingly budget-friendly, using common ingredients you likely already have.
It’s a guaranteed family favorite; even picky eaters love these flavorful meatballs.
Enjoy a fantastic homemade meatballs lemon sauce without spending hours in the kitchen.
It’s a versatile meal that pairs wonderfully with many sides for a complete dinner.
You get that satisfying, savory meatballs lemon sauce experience with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Homemade Meatballs Lemon Sauce

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delicious homemade meatballs lemon sauce. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process so smooth. I love how simple these ingredients are, yet they create such a magnificent flavor!

200 grams Ground pork – I find pork adds a wonderful richness, but ground lamb works too for a more authentic Greek taste.
400 grams Lean ground beef – This is the backbone of our meatballs, providing that classic savory depth.
1 large Egg – This acts as a binder, holding all our delicious ingredients together.
100 grams Crustless bread – This is my secret weapon for tender meatballs! It soaks up moisture and keeps them incredibly juicy.
125 ml White wine – A splash of white wine adds a subtle complexity, but you can use milk for a non-alcoholic version.
100 grams Minced onion – Finely minced so it blends seamlessly into the meat.
4 cloves Minced garlic – Essential for that robust flavor!
0.5 teaspoon Ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy note.
1 teaspoon Dried oregano – Plus extra for serving; it’s a key Greek herb.
2 teaspoons Dried parsley – Fresh minced parsley is also fantastic here.
1 teaspoon Fine sea salt – And a little extra for the sauce.
0.5 teaspoon Ground pepper – Plus more for seasoning the sauce.
2 tablespoons Olive oil – For frying the meatballs to a beautiful golden brown.
For the Lemon Sauce:
4 tablespoons Butter – The base for our luscious sauce.
4 tablespoons All-purpose flour – To create a smooth, thickening roux.
2 cups Hot water or stock – Vegetable, beef, or chicken stock all work wonderfully.
8-10 tablespoons Lemon juice – The star of the show! Adjust to your preference for tanginess.

How to Make Easy Meatballs with Lemon Sauce

Let’s get these delicious meatballs made! This recipe is designed to be straightforward, so don’t worry if you’re new to making meatballs or sauces. We’ll walk through each step together to create an amazing easy meatballs with lemon sauce dish.

Preparing the Meatballs

Step 1: First, let’s get our meatball mix ready. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, lean ground beef, egg, minced onion, garlic, ground cumin, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your meatballs could become tough.
Step 2: Now, let’s add the secret to tender meatballs: the soaked bread. Tear up the bread that’s been soaking in white wine (or milk) and mix it into the meat. Knead it in gently until it’s evenly distributed.
Step 3: Time to shape! Roll the mixture into about 15 oval-shaped meatballs. Aim for a consistent size so they cook evenly.
Step 4: For best results and to ensure they hold their shape during cooking, refrigerate the meatballs for at least 1 hour. This firms them up nicely.

Cooking the Meatballs

Step 5: Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the chilled meatballs into the hot skillet.
Step 6: Sear the meatballs for about 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This searing locks in the juices and adds fantastic flavor.
Step 7: Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This helps drain off any excess oil.

Meatballs Lemon Sauce: Divine 1-Hour Meal - Meatballs Lemon Sauce - additional detail

Crafting the Tangy Lemon Sauce

Step 8: In the same skillet you used for the meatballs (don’t wipe it out – all those browned bits are flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 9: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is the base of our silky sauce. It should smell slightly toasty.
Step 10: Gradually whisk in the hot water or stock, a little at a time, making sure to whisk out any lumps as you go. Keep whisking until you have a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Step 11: Stir in the lemon juice. Start with 8 tablespoons and taste. Add more if you prefer a tangier sauce – I often add up to 10!

Simmering and Finishing

Step 12: Gently return the seared meatballs to the skillet with the lemon sauce.
Step 13: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the meatballs to cook through completely and soak up all that wonderful lemon sauce flavor.
Step 14: Before serving, give the sauce a final taste and add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. Serve these easy meatballs with lemon sauce hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra oregano.

Pro Tips for the Best Meatballs in Lemon Butter Sauce

Want to elevate your meatballs in lemon butter sauce game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will ensure your meatballs are tender and your sauce is perfectly balanced every time.

Always chill your shaped meatballs for at least an hour before searing. This helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart in the pan.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing. Cook meatballs in batches if necessary to ensure they get a nice, golden-brown crust all around.
For an extra silky sauce, you can strain out the onion and garlic after making the roux, but I personally love the texture they add.
Taste and adjust the lemon juice in the sauce *after* it’s thickened. Citrus flavors can change as they cook.

What’s the secret to perfect meatballs lemon sauce?

The secret to a perfect meatballs lemon sauce lies in the bread and wine soak, which creates a moist binder. Also, searing the meatballs before simmering them in the sauce builds incredible flavor and texture. For more meatball inspiration, check out these Romanian fried meatballs.

Can I make meatballs lemon sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the meatballs ahead of time! Shape them, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 2 months.

How do I avoid common mistakes with the meatball recipe lemon sauce?

Avoid overmixing the meat, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Also, don’t skip chilling the meatballs; they need that firming step. For the sauce, ensure you cook out the flour taste before adding liquid to avoid a raw flour flavor. For more recipe ideas, explore our full collection of recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Savory Meatballs Lemon Sauce

These savory meatballs lemon sauce are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Greek experience, I love serving them over fluffy rice or orzo pasta, which perfectly soaks up that delicious tangy sauce. Another favorite of mine is to spoon them over creamy mashed potatoes – it’s pure comfort food! If you’re looking for a lighter option, these meatballs are also fantastic served with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. The bright lemon flavor makes them a refreshing choice any night of the week. You might also enjoy this chicken meatballs with lemon orzo dish.

Nutrition Facts for Meatballs Lemon Sauce

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delightful meatballs lemon sauce per serving. Remember, these are approximate values, and your final count might vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients you use.

Calories: 250
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Meatballs Lemon Sauce: Divine 1-Hour Meal - Meatballs Lemon Sauce - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Meatballs Lemon Sauce

Once you’ve enjoyed these delicious meatballs lemon sauce, you’ll want to know how to keep them fresh. Proper storage is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. After cooking, let the meatballs and sauce cool completely to room temperature. This usually takes about an hour. Then, transfer the cooled dish into an airtight container. You can store these tasty meatballs in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled meatballs and sauce tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. For reheating, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to the sauce if it seems thick. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through. For more information on food safety and storage, you can refer to resources from the FDA.

Frequently Asked Questions About Meatballs Lemon Sauce

What are lemon sauce meatballs?

Lemon sauce meatballs, often called Keftedes in Greek cuisine, are tender, savory meatballs simmered in a bright, tangy lemon-butter sauce. They combine simple ground meat with aromatic herbs and garlic, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s a classic combination that’s loved for its delicious flavor profile.

Why are meatballs good with lemon sauce?

The acidity and brightness of lemon sauce cut through the richness of the meatballs beautifully. This contrast makes the dish incredibly appealing, preventing it from feeling too heavy. The tangy lemon sauce complements the savory meat, creating a balanced and irresistible flavor that makes you want more.

What kind of meat is best for meatballs lemon sauce?

For the best meatballs lemon sauce, a blend of meats works wonders. I personally love using a mix of ground beef and ground pork, as it provides a great balance of flavor and moisture. While beef is classic, pork adds richness. You can also try ground lamb for a more traditional Greek flavor, or even ground chicken or veal for lighter variations of this meatball recipe lemon sauce. For a different take, consider this ground turkey and peppers stir-fry.

How to make the sauce for meatballs lemon tangy?

To make your sauce for meatballs lemon perfectly tangy, the key is to adjust the lemon juice to your taste. Start with the recommended amount, but don’t be afraid to add more, a tablespoon at a time, tasting as you go. Freshly squeezed lemon juice offers the best bright flavor. You can also add a touch of lemon zest to the sauce for an extra burst of citrusy aroma and taste.

Variations of Meatballs Lemon Sauce You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to play with this meatballs lemon sauce recipe! I love experimenting with different meats and flavors to keep things exciting. Here are a few ideas to get you started on creating your own unique versions.

For a lighter option, try a chicken meatballs lemon sauce by substituting ground chicken for the beef and pork. You might need a touch more binder, like an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs, to keep them moist.
If you love pork, a dedicated pork meatballs lemon sauce can be fantastic. You can even use ground lamb for a more authentic Greek flavor profile, which pairs wonderfully with the lemon.
Want to give it an Italian twist? Add some finely chopped fresh basil, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for an Italian meatballs lemon sauce vibe.
To achieve a truly decadent creamy lemon sauce meatballs, whisk in about 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt into the sauce just before returning the meatballs to simmer.

Chicken Meatballs Lemon Sauce Variation

When making chicken meatballs lemon sauce, remember chicken can be leaner. I often add a little extra moisture by incorporating finely grated zucchini or a splash more white wine into the meatball mix to ensure they stay tender and flavorful. For a similar flavor profile, try this Mediterranean chicken and zucchini bake.

Pork Meatballs Lemon Sauce Variation

A delicious pork meatballs lemon sauce can be elevated by using a mix of pork and beef as the recipe suggests, or even going full Greek with ground lamb. The richness of pork stands up beautifully to the bright lemon.

Italian Meatballs Lemon Sauce Variation

To create an Italian meatballs lemon sauce, I like to add a bit of garlic powder and onion powder directly into the meatball mixture, along with some dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is also a great addition!

Creamy Lemon Sauce Meatballs Variation

For a luxurious creamy lemon sauce meatballs experience, after you’ve whisked the lemon juice into the thickened sauce, stir in about 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a couple of tablespoons of sour cream. Simmer gently for a minute or two until the sauce is rich and creamy.