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.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite because of its rich flavors and simple preparation in the Instant Pot.
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 1618 golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Step 3:
- In the Instant Pot, select Saté 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 23 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.
Save 
Save This is a dish that brings everyone to the table with its comforting familiarity and vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad to complete the meal.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, dairy (feta cheese yogurt milk), and gluten (breadcrumbs use gluten-free if needed). Always check labels for allergens if using commercial products.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 420, Total Fat 25 g, Carbohydrates 16 g, Protein 33 g.
Save 
Save This recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for easy Mediterranean-inspired weeknight dinners.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or lamb?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative while maintaining the dish's flavor and texture.
- → How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → What is the best way to brown the meatballs before cooking?
Use the sauté function on the Instant Pot to brown meatballs in batches with olive oil for about 2 minutes per side to lock in flavor.
- → Can the lemon-feta sauce be used differently?
Absolutely, this tangy sauce doubles as a flavorful dip for roasted vegetables or a creamy dressing for salads.
- → What side dishes pair well with these meatballs?
They go well with warm pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.