Soutzoukakia are delicious Greek meatballs made with ground meat, often flavored with garlic and spices. They are usually simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served with rice or bread.
These meatballs are perfect for cozy family dinners. I love how they soak up the tasty sauce, making each bite a little piece of heaven! Trust me, you’ll want seconds. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: Beef is classic for these meatballs, but lamb gives a lovely flavor twist as well. If you’re avoiding red meat, try ground turkey or chicken, which will still hold together nicely.
Bread Crumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but for a gluten-free option, you can use crushed rice cakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I often add crushed crackers for extra crunch.
Onion: Onions add depth of flavor. If you want a milder taste, sweet onions like Vidalia are great. For a different kick, use shallots instead.
Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the meatballs, but you can swap with cilantro or basil if you prefer. Dried herbs can replace fresh ones; just use less, as they are stronger.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Flavorful?
A common challenge is getting the right balance of moisture and flavor in meatballs. Here’s how you can make them just right:
- Mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can make them tough. Just combine until everything is evenly distributed.
- Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes. This allows the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture and helps the meatballs hold together better.
- When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures that they brown nicely instead of steaming.
These tips help create delicious meatballs that are juicy and full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Soutzoukakia (Greek Meatballs in Tomato Sauce)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 500g ground beef (or lamb)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or crusty bread
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and another 30 minutes for cooking. In total, just around 45 minutes is all it takes to enjoy this delicious Greek dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. It should feel sticky and hold together well.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
With clean hands, take portions of the mixture and shape them into elongated meatballs, around the size of your palm. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking!
3. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meatballs in the skillet. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Tomato Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. This adds great flavor to your sauce!
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add the dried oregano, and stir in the sugar if you’re using it. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
6. Cook the Meatballs in Sauce:
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, carefully nestling them into the sauce. Cover the meatballs with the sauce and let everything simmer together for about 20 minutes. The meatballs will cook through while absorbing all that tasty sauce!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the soutzoukakia over cooked rice or alongside some crusty bread. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your delightful Greek meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that these meats tend to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit more olive oil or moisture to the mix to prevent the meatballs from becoming too dry.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free soutzoukakia, simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also use almond flour or oat flour as an alternative, adjusting the quantity as needed for the right texture.
Can I Prepare the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking tray, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag once firm. They can be frozen for up to 3 months!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Soutzoukakia?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the meatballs and sauce together in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
