Lamb Meatballs with Mint Yogurt Dip

Lamb meatballs are one of my favorite comfort dishes, especially when I want something hearty yet easy. Ground lamb is mixed with garlic, herbs, and warm spices to create juicy little bites.

Pairing with a cool, creamy mint yogurt dip makes this easy Mediterranean dish comforting and refreshing. They’re just as perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner as they are for serving at small gatherings or family get-togethers.

How to Pair

• Couscous
• Greek salad
• Tzatziki sauce
• Roasted vegetables
• Flatbread
• Red wine (like Shiraz)
• Lemon orzo

This is how I made the lamb meatballs with mint yogurt dip:

These meatballs are juicy, well-seasoned, and easy to make with pantry spices. Perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer.

Recipe Details

• servings: 4
• prep time: 15 minutes
• cook time: 10 minutes
• total time: 25 minutes
• calories: 420 kcal per serving
• cuisine: Middle Eastern-inspired
• course: Main course / Appetizer

Ingredients

Meatballs

• 500 g ground lamb
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Yogurt Dip

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Mix until just combined.
2. Shape into small meatballs (about 1–1.5 tbsp each), making about 18–20 pieces.
3. Cook: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and cooked through.
4. Make the dip: Mix yogurt, mint, garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl until smooth.
5. Serve: Serve meatballs warm with the mint yogurt dip on the side or drizzled over.

Nutrition (per serving)

• calories: 420 kcal
• protein: 24 g
• fat: 28 g
• carbohydrates: 16 g
• sodium: 520 mg

Notes

• Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
• Chop the onion very finely to prevent the meatballs from falling apart.
• Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker dip.
• Substitute ground beef if lamb is unavailable, though the flavor will be milder.