Feta & Lamb Meatball Bake Recipe

Introduction

This feta and lamb meatball bake is a hearty and flavorful meal that combines juicy lamb meatballs with tangy feta and a rich tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner with a fresh green salad on the side.

Ingredients

• 50g dried breadcrumbs
• 100g feta in brine
• 400g lamb mince
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 red onion, roughly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 700g jar butter beans, drained and rinsed
• Small handful of parsley, finely chopped
• Green salad, to serve

Instructions

1. Step 1: Mix the breadcrumbs and about 2 tablespoons of the feta brine in a large bowl. Set aside for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
2. Step 2: Add the lamb mince, ground cumin, lemon zest, and some seasoning to the bowl. Combine everything well using your hands, then shape the mixture into 24 small meatballs.
3. Step 3: Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6). Place the meatballs and sliced onion into a baking dish and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir gently to coat.
4. Step 4: Roast the meatballs for 10–15 minutes until lightly browned.
5. Step 5: Pour in the chopped tomatoes and swirl out the cans with a splash of water, adding this to the dish. Stir in the ground cinnamon and butter beans, season, and add a splash of lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
6. Step 6: Crumble over the feta and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has reduced.
7. Step 7: Season to taste. Serve scattered with chopped parsley alongside a fresh green salad.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra touch of warmth, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meatball mixture or the tomato sauce.
• You can substitute lamb mince with beef or a mix of beef and pork if preferred.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs made from day-old bread for better texture.
• Feel free to add chopped fresh herbs like mint or oregano into the meatballs for added fragrance.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then store separately in the fridge. Combine and bake fresh just before serving for best results.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, omit the feta or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The brine from the feta is used to add moisture to the meatballs, so you can replace it with a little water or vegetable broth.