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Greek Meatballs and Whipped Feta

by

Michael Symon

Crispy beef meatballs infused with cumin, coriander, and cinnamon served alongside a smooth whipped feta dip made with Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon zest. Finished with fresh mint and lemon for a bright, bold finish.

Prep Time:

25 Minutes

Cook Time

10 Minutes

Serves:

4-6 Servings

Level:

Intermediate

Meatballs:

  • 1 cup grated onion

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 cup olive oil (for frying)

  • 1 cup day-old bread, soaked in milk and squeezed dry

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tbsp dried oregano

  • 1 tbsp ground coriander

  • 1 tbsp ground cumin

  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon

  • Pinch nutmeg

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Flour, for dredging

  • Fresh mint leaves and lemon wedges, for garnish

Whipped Feta:

  • 16 oz Greek or Bulgarian feta cheese, drained

  • ⅓ cup Greek yogurt

  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

  • ½ tsp kosher salt

  • Zest of ½ lemon

Ingredients

Step 1: In a small skillet, cook the grated onion and minced garlic in a drizzle of olive oil over medium-low heat until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooled onion-garlic mixture with the soaked bread, beef, egg, oregano, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 3: Roll the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and lightly dredge each one in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 4: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate.

Step 5: In a food processor, combine the feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, salt, and lemon zest. Process until creamy and smooth, about 1 minute. (Do not overmix or it may turn runny.)

Step 6: Spread the whipped feta in a shallow bowl or platter and drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Step 7: Arrange the warm meatballs around or on top of the whipped feta. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon wedges.

Instructions

Serving & Finishing Touches

  • Serve warm with toasted pita or flatbread for dipping. The creamy feta balances the aromatic spice of the meatballs — a flavor combo that feels both indulgent and effortless.


  • Extra Flair Tip:Drizzle the platter with a touch of chili oil or honey for a sweet-heat finish.

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