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Irresistible Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs With Tzatziki

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These Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs are hearty, herb-packed, and baked until golden for a lighter twist on classic meatballs. Served with a refreshing homemade tzatziki, they make a satisfying and wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups cooked green or brown lentils
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats or breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for brushing)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or oregano, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Tzatziki:
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cucumber, grated and water squeezed out
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a food processor, add cooked lentils, red onion, garlic, oats or breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, parsley, dill or oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pulse until combined but still textured, not completely smooth.
  4. Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet. Brush or spray lightly with olive oil.
  5. Bake for 22–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and firm.
  6. Meanwhile, mix all tzatziki ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  7. Let meatballs cool slightly before serving with tzatziki.

Notes

  • Add crumbled feta to the meatball mixture for extra richness.
  • Use a flax egg and dairy-free yogurt to make the recipe vegan.
  • Freeze baked meatballs and reheat in the oven.
  • Serve in pita, with rice, salad, or as part of a mezze platter.
  • Add chili flakes or cayenne for more spice.

Nutrition