meatballs Recipes
31 delicious meatballs recipes from around the world
Albóndigas en Salsa (Spanish Meatballs in Almond-Saffron Sauce)
Tender, flavorful Spanish meatballs simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce made with ground almonds and a hint of saffron. A classic tapas dish perfect for sharing.
Giouvarlakia (Greek Meatball Soup)
Giouvarlakia are tender, rice-filled meatballs simmered in a rich, lemony egg-and-rice broth (avgolemono). This is a classic Greek comfort food, perfect for a chilly day.
Keftedes (Greek Meatballs)
Authentic Greek keftedes are flavorful, herb-flecked meatballs, traditionally pan-fried to a golden crisp. This taverna classic is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, best served with a cooling tzatziki sauce.
Königsberger Klopse
Königsberger Klopse are tender, delicate meatballs originating from East Prussia, served in a rich, tangy white sauce infused with capers and lemon. A true German classic.
Köttbullar
Authentic Swedish meatballs (köttbullar) - small, tender, flavorful spheres simmered in a rich, creamy gravy, traditionally served with tart lingonberry jam and fluffy mashed potatoes.
Köttbullar (Authentic Swedish Meatballs)
Authentic Swedish meatballs, characterized by their smaller size and delicate texture, are a beloved classic. This recipe stays true to tradition, featuring a blend of beef and pork, a creamy binder, and a rich, savory gravy. Served with tart lingonberry jam, they offer a perfect balance of flavors.
Köttbullar med Lingonsylt
Authentic Swedish meatballs (köttbullar) served with a rich cream sauce and the essential sweet-tart lingonberry jam. This recipe focuses on traditional flavors and a tender texture, going beyond the familiar IKEA version with the subtle warmth of allspice and the richness of a homemade cream sauce.
Smörgåsbord
A traditional Swedish buffet featuring a wide array of dishes, typically served during celebrations and holidays. It's designed for guests to enjoy multiple courses and selections.
Soutzoukakia (Smyrna Meatballs in Tomato Sauce)
Tender, cumin-spiced meatballs, traditionally elongated and originating from Smyrna, simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce. A comforting and classic Greek dish.
Soutzoukakia Smyrneika (Smyrna Meatballs in Tomato Sauce)
Soutzoukakia Smyrneika are flavorful, cumin-spiced meatballs originating from Smyrna (modern-day Izmir) in Asia Minor, simmered in a rich tomato and red wine sauce. This dish carries a significant cultural heritage, often associated with Greek refugees from Asia Minor.
Swedish Meatballs
Sweden's beloved köttbullar - tender meatballs in a rich, creamy gravy, traditionally served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam for a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Soutzoukakia
Ottoman meatballs in tomato sauce - cumin-spiced oblong meatballs in rich tomato sauce. Izmir (Smyrna) specialty.
Köfte
Turkish grilled meatballs - spiced beef and lamb shaped into patties. Grilled over charcoal perfection.
Köfte Izgara
Turkish grilled meatballs - spiced beef shaped into ovals and grilled. Classic kebab.
Köfte
Turkish meatballs - grilled spiced meat patties. Universal Turkish favorite.
Koofteh Berenji
Persian rice meatballs - meatballs made with rice instead of bulgur. Unique.
Albaloo Polo (Persian Sour Cherry Rice with Meatballs)
A beloved Persian dish, Albaloo Polo features fragrant basmati rice layered with a vibrant, sweet-sour sour cherry compote and tender, spiced meatballs. The result is a beautiful, jewel-toned rice dish perfect for special occasions.
Ash-e Anar (Pomegranate Soup)
A festive and flavorful Persian pomegranate soup, featuring tender meatballs and a vibrant ruby-red hue. This hearty soup is perfect for special occasions, especially during the Yalda festival.
Köfte (Turkish Grilled Meatballs)
Authentic Turkish köfte, featuring a flavorful blend of ground beef and lamb, seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. These meatballs are traditionally grilled over charcoal, achieving a perfect char and juicy interior. Serve with warm pita bread, sliced onions, and fresh tomatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Köfte Izgara (Turkish Grilled Meatballs)
Authentic Turkish köfte, these spiced beef meatballs are shaped into classic oval forms and grilled to perfection, offering a delightful char and savory flavor. A quintessential kebab experience, best served with sumac-infused onions.
Koofteh Berenji (Persian Rice Meatballs)
Koofteh Berenji are tender, flavorful meatballs made with a unique combination of ground lamb and rice, simmered in a rich tomato broth. This dish offers a delightful alternative to traditional bulgur-based koofteh, resulting in a softer texture and a comforting, hearty meal.
Luk Chin Ping (Thai Grilled Meatballs)
Luk Chin Ping are popular Thai street food skewers featuring grilled fish or pork meatballs, often brushed with a sweet glaze while cooking and served with a vibrant sweet chili sauce for dipping. They are quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Shi Zi Tou (Lion's Head Meatballs)
Giant, succulent pork meatballs, named for their size resembling a lion's mane, are gently braised with tender Napa cabbage in a savory broth. This Shanghai classic is known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and comforting, rich flavor.
Albondigas en Chipotle
Tender, flavorful beef meatballs simmered in a rich, smoky chipotle-tomato sauce. A classic Mexican comfort food.