Save Tender, flavorful meatballs seasoned with Mediterranean herbs, pressure-cooked for extra juiciness and served with a creamy, tangy lemon-feta sauce.
This recipe reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone eagerly awaits the burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- Meatballs: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or lamb, 1/2 cup (60 g) breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup (30 g) onion finely chopped, 2 garlic cloves minced, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
- Lemon-Feta Sauce: 1/2 cup (120 g) crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup (120 g) plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 garlic clove finely minced, Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Serving: Lemon wedges, Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl combine ground beef or lamb breadcrumbs onion garlic egg parsley oregano cumin salt black pepper and milk. Mix gently until just combined (do not overwork).
- Step 2:
- Shape mixture into 16 meatballs (about 1.5 inches each).
- Step 3:
- Lightly grease the bottom of the Instant Pot with olive oil. Place the meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if necessary).
- Step 4:
- Add 1/2 cup (120 ml) water to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid set the valve to sealing and cook on high pressure for 7 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Quick-release the pressure. Use a slotted spoon to transfer meatballs to a serving platter. Discard cooking liquid.
- Step 6:
- While meatballs cook prepare the lemon-feta sauce In a bowl combine feta Greek yogurt lemon juice lemon zest dill olive oil and minced garlic. Mix until creamy Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7:
- Drizzle lemon-feta sauce over warm meatballs and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Save This meal is always a family favorite bringing everyone together around the table with smiles and full hearts
Required Tools
Instant Pot electric pressure cooker Mixing bowls Slotted spoon Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (feta yogurt milk) Eggs Gluten (breadcrumbs) For gluten-free use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 370 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 13 g Protein 28 g
Save Enjoy this flavorful dish fresh or prepared ahead for a convenient meal any day of the week
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What meat is best for these meatballs?
Ground beef or lamb provide rich flavor and moisture. For a lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken can be used.
- → How does pressure cooking affect the meatballs?
Pressure cooking ensures the meatballs stay tender and juicy by sealing in moisture during the quick cooking process.
- → What ingredients make the lemon-feta sauce creamy?
Feta cheese combined with Greek yogurt creates a smooth, tangy base, enhanced by lemon juice, zest, dill, and olive oil.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the lemon-feta sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to two days to allow flavors to develop.
- → What sides pair well with these meatballs?
Serve alongside pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad for a balanced Mediterranean meal.