Name: Feta-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey; 1 egg; ½ cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp milk; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, finely grated; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp smoked paprika; Salt & black pepper, to taste; ½ cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes or crumbled into firm pieces; ½ cup marinara; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp lemon juice; Pinch of oregano

Jump to Recipe

If you have not yet tried these delightful Feta-Stuffed Meatballs, you are in for a true treat! Perfectly juicy meatballs wrapped around tangy, creamy feta cheese create an irresistible combination that hits all the right flavor notes. This dish brings simple ingredients together in a way that feels both comforting and special, making it ideal for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal fuss. Whether served with a zesty marinara or enjoyed on their own, the Feta-Stuffed Meatballs deliver a rustic charm and bold flair that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Feta-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a key role—ground meat brings hearty flavor and moistness, the feta adds a luscious salty surprise, and the herbs and spices infuse vibrant aroma and depth. You don’t need anything fancy to pull this together, just quality basics that transform effortlessly into something amazing.

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey: The base for tender and juicy meatballs, choose your favorite for flavor and texture.
1 egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape.
½ cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure and keeps the meatballs light instead of dense.
2 tbsp milk: Helps moisten the mixture for tender results.
1 tbsp olive oil: Brushed over meatballs before baking for a golden, appetizing finish.
1 small onion, finely grated: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture.
2 garlic cloves, minced: For a fragrant kick that complements the meat perfectly.
1 tsp dried oregano: Introduces classic Mediterranean warmth and herbaceous notes.
½ tsp smoked paprika: Offers a gentle smoky depth enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Salt & black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together.
½ cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes or crumbled into firm pieces: The star of the filling—creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious.
Optional marinara sauce (½ cup), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp lemon juice, pinch of oregano: A bright sauce to dress up your meatballs for extra zest.

How to Make Feta-Stuffed Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Setting this up early keeps your workflow smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, grated onion, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be careful. This blend sets the foundation for wonderfully tender and flavorful meatballs.

Step 3: Form Meatballs with the Feta Filling

Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a small cube or crumble of feta cheese in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around the cheese, shaping it into a neat ball and sealing it completely. Repeat this step until all meat mixture is used. This hand-stuffed method ensures a gooey, cheesy surprise inside every bite.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Place your feta-stuffed meatballs on the lined baking sheet, giving them enough space to cook evenly. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help develop a beautiful golden crust. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until they are nicely browned and cooked through—juicy, tender, and ready to impress.

Step 5: Prepare the Optional Sauce

If you want to add a fresh sauce, gently warm the marinara with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of oregano in a small saucepan. This simple sauce brings brightness and complements the richness of the meat and feta wonderfully.

How to Serve Feta-Stuffed Meatballs

Garnishes

To elevate your feta-stuffed meatballs, sprinkle fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or basil on top. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can add an eye-catching shine and an aromatic boost. These little touches make your dish irresistible and inviting.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides—fluffy rice lends comfort; a crisp green salad offers refreshing contrast; warm pita bread invites scooping and sharing; and roasted vegetables provide seasonal color and depth. Mixing and matching based on the occasion keeps things exciting and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Try serving the Feta-Stuffed Meatballs on a skewer with grilled vegetables for a fun appetizer or place them atop a bed of herbed couscous for a hearty main course. You can also pile them into mini pita pockets with tzatziki or a garlic yogurt sauce for a fabulous handheld snack. The versatility here means you can make this recipe your own every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any extra Feta-Stuffed Meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor and texture well, making them perfect for quick, tasty lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep these meatballs longer, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed bag or container. Properly stored, they can last for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy homemade Feta-Stuffed Meatballs anytime you crave a comforting meal without starting from scratch.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through to preserve texture and juiciness. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, but be careful not to overcook and dry them out. Serve with a fresh splash of sauce for that just-made feeling.

FAQs

Can I make Feta-Stuffed Meatballs with ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully and results in a lighter meatball. Just be sure to handle it gently and not overmix so your meatballs remain tender and juicy.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta or want to try something different, halloumi or ricotta cheeses can be good substitutes. Choose cheeses that hold their shape and bring a pleasant creaminess inside the meatballs.

Do I have to bake the meatballs, or can I pan-fry them?

Baking is hands-off and ensures even cooking, but you can pan-fry the meatballs on medium heat, turning carefully to brown all sides. Just watch closely so the cheese inside doesn’t leak out before the meatball is cooked through.

Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time and freeze them raw?

Yes! Freeze the formed raw meatballs on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready, bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Are these meatballs spicy?

Not really. The smoked paprika adds mild warmth without overpowering heat, making these meatballs approachable for all tastes. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes if you want a little kick.

Final Thoughts

These Feta-Stuffed Meatballs are a wonderful way to bring a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavor to your table with minimal effort. The creamy tang of feta paired with savory, well-seasoned meat creates a dish that feels both homey and special. I can’t wait for you to try making and sharing these delightful meatballs—they truly have a way of bringing smiles to the dinner table. Enjoy every juicy, cheesy bite!