Description
These Crispy Lamb Meatballs are packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, featuring ground lamb combined with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. They can be baked or pan-fried to achieve a perfectly tender and crispy texture. Ideal as an appetizer or main dish, these meatballs pair wonderfully with sauces, dips, or over rice and pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg (beaten)
For Cooking
- Olive oil (for frying or drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven (if baking): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooking.
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and beaten egg. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender and moist.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. Arrange them on a plate or baking sheet to prepare for cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs: Option 1 – Baking: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Option 2 – Frying: Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until crispy, golden, and cooked through. Drain on paper towels. - Serve: Serve warm garnished with extra chopped parsley if desired. These meatballs are delicious on their own or accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce, with rice, or pasta.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture to ensure tender meatballs.
- Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crispiness.
- Meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
- If frying, ensure oil is hot enough to get a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: lamb meatballs, crispy meatballs, Mediterranean meatballs, baked meatballs, fried meatballs, ground lamb recipe, easy meatball recipe
