Juicy, spiced lamb meatballs served atop soft mini pita rounds and topped with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce—these flavorful bites are perfect for parties, mezze platters, or as an upscale appetizer. Each one is a delightful combination of bold Mediterranean spices and refreshing herbaceous elements.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mini Lamb Meatball Bites strike the perfect balance between hearty and fresh. The lamb is richly seasoned with warm spices, while the tzatziki adds a cooling contrast that enhances every bite. Served on a soft pita base, they’re elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough to make any day of the week.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Lamb Meatballs:

1 lb ground lamb
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup onion, finely grated
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
Salt to taste

Other:

12 mini pita rounds or naan bites
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, garlic, onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Shape into 12 equal-sized small meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
While the meatballs bake, prepare the tzatziki by combining all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
Warm the mini pita rounds in a dry skillet or oven until soft and pliable.
To assemble, place one meatball on each pita round. Drizzle with a spoonful of tzatziki and top with a cilantro leaf.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 meatball bites.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Beef or Chicken Substitute: Swap lamb for ground beef or chicken for a milder flavor.
Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or harissa to the lamb mix.
Mini Skewers: Serve on toothpicks for a more portable party option.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pita alternatives.
Pita Chips Base: Serve meatballs and tzatziki atop sturdy pita chips for a crunchy twist.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat meatballs in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Warm pita separately. Assemble just before serving to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat and assemble with fresh pita and tzatziki when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to keep them warm at a party?

Keep the meatballs warm in a low oven (around 200°F) and assemble just before serving.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Yes, high-quality store-bought tzatziki is a convenient option and works well with this recipe.

Are these freezer-friendly?

You can freeze the cooked meatballs. Thaw and reheat as needed. Do not freeze assembled bites or tzatziki.

What type of pita should I use?

Mini pita rounds, naan bites, or cut regular pita into small rounds all work well.

How can I make them more filling?

Serve with a side salad or couscous to turn them into a light meal.

Can I grill the meatballs instead?

Yes, grill over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning to cook evenly.

What herbs work best in the tzatziki?

Fresh dill is traditional, but mint adds a refreshing twist. You can use both for added depth.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt substitute in the tzatziki, such as coconut or almond yogurt.

What wine pairs well with these bites?

A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir complements the dish nicely.

Conclusion

Mini Lamb Meatball Bites with Tzatziki on Pita Rounds bring bold Mediterranean flavor to the table in a refined, bite-sized package. Ideal for entertaining or elevated snacking, they offer a satisfying combination of spice, creaminess, and freshness. Simple to prepare and sure to impress, these bites are a versatile addition to your recipe rotation.