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Crispy Lamb Meatballs Recipe

4.7 from 119 reviews

This Crispy Lamb Meatballs recipe features tender and flavorful meatballs made with ground lamb, aromatic spices, fresh parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly cooked to a crisp outside and juicy inside, these meatballs can be either baked or pan-fried, making them a versatile appetizer or main dish to serve with your favorite sauce, dip, 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

  1. Preheat Oven (if baking): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the meatballs.
  2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Arrange them on a plate or a baking sheet.
  4. Cook the Meatballs – Option 1: Baking: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.
  5. Cook the Meatballs – Option 2: Frying: Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve: Serve the crispy lamb meatballs warm, optionally garnished with extra parsley. Pair them with your choice of sauce, dip, or serve over rice or pasta for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs.
  • Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to ensure tender meatballs.
  • Ensure meatballs are cooked through by checking internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • You can freeze raw meatballs, shaped and spaced on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with tzatziki, marinara sauce, or a yogurt-based dip for added flavor.

Keywords: lamb meatballs, crispy meatballs, Mediterranean meatballs, lamb recipe, appetizer, baked meatballs, fried meatballs