Keto Greek Keftedes Meatballs

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

These keto-friendly Greek meatballs, or keftedes, bring together classic Mediterranean ingredients like oregano, garlic, and tangy feta cheese for unbeatable flavor. Made with ground beef or lamb and lightened using almond flour, each meatball remains succulent while keeping carbs low. Quick to mix and pan-cook, they are a satisfying main dish that pairs wonderfully with tzatziki or fresh salads. Serve warm and enjoy the rich blend of herbs and cheese that captures the essence of Greek cuisine, all while supporting your low-carb lifestyle.

A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Published By Maria
Updated as of Sun, 28 Sep 2025 20:46:53 GMT
A bowl of meatballs with a white sauce. Bookmark
A bowl of meatballs with a white sauce. | foodbymary.com

These keto Greek meatballs are full of briny feta cheese earthy oregano and punchy garlic This recipe gives you moist Mediterranean style meatballs that work for low carb dinners or impressive appetizers I love making a big batch when I want something comforting but still light and it never fails to bring everyone to the table

The first time I made these I was missing my favorite Greek spot in town and these meatballs instantly brought back those savory memories They have been my go to for summer patio dinners ever since

Ingredients

  • Ground beef or lamb: Both offer rich flavor and moisture Choose grass fed if possible for best taste
  • Almond flour: Helps bind the mixture and keeps carbs in check Look for superfine almond flour for a smooth result
  • Crumbled feta cheese: Adds creaminess and salty tang Buy block feta and crumble it yourself for the freshest flavor
  • Egg: Holds everything together and gives meatballs a tender bite Use a large free range egg for richness
  • Dried oregano: Brings in classic Mediterranean notes Greek oregano is especially fragrant so use if you can find it
  • Garlic: Freshly minced delivers spicy aroma and depth Always use fresh garlic not preminced for best results
  • Salt and pepper: Balances and enhances Every good meatball needs enough salt to bring the flavors together

Step by Step Instructions

Mix Ingredients:
Add the ground beef or lamb almond flour feta cheese egg dried oregano garlic salt and pepper to a large bowl Combine everything thoroughly using your hands Take time to break up the feta so it distributes evenly and watch for dry patches as almond flour sometimes clumps
Shape Meatballs:
Scoop out portions about one and one half inches across Roll gently between your palms until round Compacting them too tightly will make them tough You should get about sixteen meatballs
Brown and Cook:
Place a large skillet over medium heat When hot add the meatballs Do not overcrowd the pan Brown each side for two to three minutes turning carefully with tongs Once browned continue cooking for eight to ten minutes until the centers are hot and cooked through
Rest and Serve:
Transfer the meatballs to a plate and let them rest for two minutes This keeps them juicy Serve warm with a generous side of tzatziki sauce and garnish with extra oregano if you wish
A bowl of meatballs with a side of sauce. Bookmark
A bowl of meatballs with a side of sauce. | foodbymary.com

One of my favorite ways to enjoy these is with cucumber tomato salad and a squeeze of fresh lemon Each time I make them I remember my grandfather teaching me to always finish Greek meat dishes with herbs for that fresh punch

Storage tips

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days They also freeze well Place cooked cooled meatballs on a tray to freeze then transfer to a bag or container This method keeps them from sticking together Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef or lamb if you prefer a lighter flavor If you do skip the almond flour as poultry can get dry Try adding grated zucchini or extra feta for moisture If dairy free use a handful of chopped kalamata olives instead of feta

Serving suggestions

Pile the meatballs on a platter with tzatziki for dipping Try them over a crisp Greek salad with kalamata olives or wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves with cucumber slices When serving to guests I sometimes offer a platter with toothpicks and a sprinkling of chopped fresh mint

A bowl of meatballs with a side of sauce. Bookmark
A bowl of meatballs with a side of sauce. | foodbymary.com

A Bite of Greek History

Keftedes are classic Greek meatballs often served as meze or small appetizers They reflect the Greek tradition of using herbs and cheese to flavor simple meats The almond flour twist makes this recipe keto friendly while keeping the spirit of the dish intact

Common Recipe Questions

→ What makes these meatballs lower in carbs?

Almond flour replaces breadcrumbs to keep carbs minimal without sacrificing texture or moisture.

→ Which meat works best for these meatballs?

Ground beef and lamb both lend traditional Greek flavors, but you can mix the two for added richness.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can form and cook the meatballs ahead of time; simply reheat gently before serving.

→ What pairs well with these meatballs?

A side of cool tzatziki sauce, salads, or low-carb pita are all excellent companions for serving.

→ Can the feta cheese be substituted?

If you prefer, try goat cheese or leave out the cheese for a dairy-free option, adjusting salt as needed.

Keto Greek Keftedes Meatballs

Savory Greek meatballs with feta, herbs, and classic Mediterranean flavors for a low-carb delight.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
12 minutes
Complete Time
27 minutes
Published By: Maria

Recipe Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: Mediterranean

Total Portions: 4 Serves How Many (Approximately 16 meatballs)

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb Option, Gluten-Free

Required Ingredients

→ Meatballs

01 450 g ground beef or lamb
02 30 g almond flour
03 30 g crumbled feta cheese
04 1 large egg
05 1 teaspoon dried oregano
06 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 Salt, to taste
08 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef or lamb, almond flour, feta cheese, egg, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 02

Using clean hands, form the mixture into uniform meatballs, each approximately 3 cm in diameter.

Step 03

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shaped meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, for 10–12 minutes or until browned on all sides and cooked through.

Step 04

Transfer cooked meatballs to a serving dish. Pair with a side of tzatziki sauce if desired.

Handy Cooking Tips

  1. For a lighter texture, avoid over-mixing the meatball mixture.

Necessary Kitchen Tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Spatula or tongs

Allergy Details

Always check ingredient packaging for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional when in doubt.
  • Contains eggs, milk (feta cheese), and nuts (almond flour).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are for guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 370
  • Fat: 28 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 3 grams
  • Proteins: 22 grams