Go Back

Meatballs in Lemon Sauce

Sophia
Juicy meatballs in a tangy, garlicky lemon sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking

For the Lemon Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red chili flakes optional

For Garnish (Optional):

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • Lemon slices

Instructions
 

  • Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into 1-inch meatballs (about 16).
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Cook meatballs for 6-8 minutes, turning, until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, heat olive oil; cook onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes. Add broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Stir in cornstarch slurry; simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  • Return meatballs to skillet; simmer for 5-7 minutes until cooked (160°F).
  • Garnish with parsley, dill, and lemon slices. Serve hot.

Notes

Nutrition (per serving):
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.