Lamb Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce

These juicy, spiced lamb meatballs are bursting with Middle Eastern flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Made with ground lamb, warm spices, and fresh herbs, they’re seared to perfection and served with a cooling yogurt sauce. Whether you serve them over rice, in wraps, or with pita and salad, these koftas are easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients:

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb ground lamb

• ½ small onion, finely grated or minced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for pan)
  
  

For the yogurt sauce:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint or parsley

• Salt, to taste

• Optional: 1 small garlic clove, finely grated

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the meatball mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, garlic, herbs, and spices. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is well incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 2: Shape the meatballs
Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1½ inches in size). You should get about 18 meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the meatballs
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the yogurt sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, herbs, and a pinch of salt. Add garlic if desired for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Serve the lamb kofta meatballs warm with a generous dollop of yogurt sauce. Great with rice, pita, or a cucumber-tomato salad!

Tips:

Meal Prep: These meatballs keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
Baking Option: You can bake them at 400°F for 15–18 minutes if you prefer hands-off cooking.
Make It a Bowl: Add rice or couscous, hummus, salad, and drizzle with tahini for a full Middle Eastern bowl.

These Lamb Kofta Meatballs are full of bold flavor and simple to make. Whether you're hosting guests or just want something special for dinner, this dish is hearty, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Don’t forget the yogurt sauce—it pulls everything together with a creamy, herby finish!