Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta

Name: Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: North African
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or lamb; 2 tbsp harissa paste; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)

Published: December 18, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta

This incredible Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta:

Ground Beef or Lamb: Choose lean meat for juicy meatballs and optimal flavor; lamb adds an authentic touch.
Harissa Paste: This North African chili paste is packed with spices and heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These light breadcrumbs help create a tender texture while absorbing flavors beautifully.
Fresh Parsley: A handful of chopped parsley brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color.

For the Whipped Feta:

Feta Cheese: Opt for high-quality feta; it crumbles beautifully and whips into a creamy delight.
Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess while balancing out the saltiness of the feta; use plain yogurt for best results.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice elevates the whipped feta’s flavor profile wonderfully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it—this will ensure easy cleanup after you enjoy your culinary masterpiece.

Step 2: Mix Your Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef or lamb, harissa paste, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it or you’ll end up with tough meatballs!

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you’re fancy), shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one so they can cook evenly.

Step 4: Bake Those Bad Boys

Pop your meatballs in the oven! Bake them for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re cooked through and golden brown. You could also broil them for an extra minute at the end if you want those crispy edges.

Step 5: Prepare Whipped Feta

While the meatballs are baking, whip up your feta! In a blender or food processor, combine feta cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and a splash of olive oil. Blend until smooth—if it gets too thick, add a tiny bit of water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once those delightful meatballs are out of the oven (and cooled slightly because nobody wants burnt fingers), serve them warm atop generous dollops of whipped feta. Drizzle with olive oil or sprinkle some extra parsley if you’re feeling fancy!

Now gather around the table because it’s time to dig in! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Trust me; everyone will be raving about this dish long after dinner is done!

So there you have it—a deliciously fun way to make Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds). Enjoy your flavorful journey!

You Must Know About Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta

This showstopping Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by mixing the ground meat with spices and forming the meatballs while preheating your oven. Sear the meatballs in a hot skillet for a crispy exterior, then transfer them to the oven to finish cooking. Prepare the whipped feta while the meatballs bake for maximum efficiency.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. Add chopped herbs like parsley or mint for freshness, or experiment with different cheeses in your whipped feta for unique flavor combinations that will wow your guests.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to preserve their juiciness or microwave them briefly until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta

This professional-quality Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta when friends come over; their reactions are priceless! It’s become a regular request because they can’t get enough of that perfect blend of spice and creaminess!

FAQs

What is Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta?

Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta is a flavorful dish that combines tender meatballs infused with spicy harissa paste and served alongside a creamy whipped feta dip. The meatballs are typically made with ground meat, herbs, and spices, creating a deliciously spicy and savory bite. The whipped feta adds a rich and tangy contrast, making this dish perfect for appetizers or as part of a main course. Whether enjoyed with pita bread or fresh vegetables, this recipe brings together vibrant flavors for an unforgettable meal.

How do I make Harissa Meatballs?

To prepare Harissa Meatballs, start by mixing ground meat, breadcrumbs, garlic, and spices in a bowl. Add harissa paste for that signature heat and flavor. Shape the mixture into small balls and bake or fry them until cooked through. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less harissa according to your taste preference. Serve these delightful meatballs warm with your choice of sauce or dip for an added punch.

Can I make the whipped feta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the whipped feta ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply blend feta cheese with olive oil and any additional seasonings you like until smooth and creamy. Store it in an airtight container for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, enhancing the taste when paired with your Harissa Meatballs.

What dishes pair well with Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta?

Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them alongside warm pita bread, fresh salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Additionally, you can complement them with tzatziki or hummus for a Mediterranean flair. These pairings enhance the dish’s flavors while also providing balance to its spice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta offer a delightful combination of spicy and creamy flavors that make them a standout dish. By following simple preparation steps, you can create tender meatballs packed with flavor complemented by rich whipped feta. This versatile recipe is perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy crafting this dish that promises to impress anyone who tastes it!

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