Get ready for a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with all the sunny Mediterranean vibes you love! These Greek Meatball Bowls with Lemon Rice & Feta Crumble are everything you need in a bowl juicy, herby meatballs, fluffy lemon-scented rice, and tangy feta scattered on top like little bites of salty perfection. This dish is not only delicious but also beautiful and balanced. Trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll want on repeat for quick dinners and meal prep alike!

Why You’ll Love Greek Meatball Bowls with Lemon Rice & Feta Crumble

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Serve it for lunch, dinner, or pack it up for a grab-and-go meal.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients that feel gourmet.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
Customizable: Add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust seasonings to taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves tender meatballs with vibrant flavors—it’s a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients in Greek Meatball Bowls with Lemon Rice & Feta Crumble

Here’s the magic of this recipe it’s built from easy-to-find ingredients that pack a punch of flavor:
Ground Lamb or Beef: The base for those juicy, spiced meatballs.
Breadcrumbs and Egg: Help bind everything together for perfect texture.
Garlic and Onion: Build depth and aromatic flavor.
Dried Oregano and Fresh Parsley: Bring that classic Greek herby goodness.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Add brightness to both the meatballs and the rice.
Long-Grain White Rice: Cooked fluffy and infused with lemon for extra flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled on top for a salty, tangy finish.
Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: The basics that tie everything together.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Heat your oven to 400°F for perfectly cooked meatballs.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Dish: Roll the meat mixture into even-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once, until the meatballs are golden and cooked through.
Finishing Touches: While the meatballs cook, prepare the lemon rice by cooking the rice in chicken broth and stirring in fresh lemon juice and zest at the end.
Serve and Enjoy: Build your bowls with a base of lemon rice, top with meatballs, and scatter crumbled feta over everything. Add fresh parsley for garnish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 520

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Greek Meatball Bowls with Lemon Rice & Feta Crumble

This dish makes the perfect all-in-one meal, but you can pair it with other sides for a bigger spread:
Serve with warm pita or flatbread for scooping up every last bite.
Add a dollop of tzatziki or hummus on the side for creaminess.
Include a simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for freshness.
A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes a perfect pairing.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use a mix of lamb and beef for the juiciest meatballs.
Make extra meatballs and freeze them for quick future meals.
Don’t overmix the meat mixture—this keeps the meatballs tender.
Try brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added nutrition.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken? Yes, just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly.
2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely, shape them and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking.
3. Can I freeze the cooked meatballs? Yes, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
4. How do I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binder.
5. Can I cook the meatballs on the stovetop? Yes, pan-fry them in olive oil until browned and cooked through.
6. Can I add veggies to the bowls? Definitely roasted peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be great.
7. How do I keep the meatballs moist? Don’t overbake and make sure there’s enough fat in the meat mixture.
8. Can I substitute the rice? Quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice are great options.
9. Can I double the recipe? Yes, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
10. Can I use pre-cooked rice? Sure, just warm it and add the lemon juice and zest before serving.

Conclusion

These Greek Meatball Bowls with Lemon Rice & Feta Crumble are the perfect balance of hearty and fresh. Juicy meatballs, fragrant lemon rice, and tangy feta come together for a dish that’s full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re meal-prepping or serving a crowd, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

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