Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Meatballs

For a meal that’s both quick and packed with Mediterranean flair, the Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Meatballs is a total gem. These tender meatballs are loaded with flavor from sweet roasted red peppers and fresh mint, and they get a creamy lift from a tzatziki sauce that’s blended with lemon and herbs. I made this on a weeknight and had dinner on the table in just 20 minutes. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lemon
• 200g (7 oz) tub of tzatziki
• 30g bunch of mint
• 230g (8 oz) roasted red peppers
• 400g (14 oz) minced lamb

How To Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Meatballs

• Prep the Sauce: Finely zest your lemon and set aside half. Squeeze the juice from one half into a blender. Add the tzatziki and most of the mint leaves. Blitz until smooth, season with sea salt and pepper, and set aside.
• Make the Meatballs: Drain and finely chop half the roasted red peppers. Combine in a mixing bowl with the lamb, half the lemon zest, chopped peppers, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and form into 8 oval-shaped meatballs.
• Cook the Meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick pan over high heat. Cook the meatballs for about 10 minutes, turning regularly, until golden and cooked through. Add sliced remaining roasted peppers in the last 2 minutes to warm through.
• Plate and Serve: Spoon the lemony tzatziki sauce onto plates. Top with meatballs and scattered warm roasted peppers. Finish with remaining lemon zest and fresh mint leaves. Serve with lemon wedges.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe was a total lifesaver on a hectic evening. It came together so fast, and every bite was full of zingy, herby goodness. I served it with warm flatbreads and a chopped salad, and it felt like a proper treat. It’s also great for lunch leftovers the next day!

Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Mint: The brightness of fresh mint really makes the dish.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine just until everything comes together—this keeps the meatballs tender.
• High Heat is Key: A good sear gives the meatballs that lovely golden crust.
• Prep Ahead: You can shape the meatballs in advance and chill until ready to cook.
• Zest and Juice: Always zest your lemon before juicing—it’s much easier!

How To Store This Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Meatballs

• At Room Temperature: Let them cool no more than 2 hours before refrigerating.
• In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze meatballs (cooked or uncooked) in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. Best used within 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: 180°C (350°F), covered with foil, for 15 minutes.
    Stovetop: Medium heat, turning occasionally, for 5–7 minutes.
    Microwave: Medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• How Do I Make the Meatballs Hold Together?
  Shape them firmly and don’t skip the chilling step if you’re prepping ahead.
• Can I Use Beef Instead of Lamb?
  Sure! The flavors work well with beef, or even turkey for a leaner version.
• What Goes Best With This Dish?
  Pita, couscous, tabbouleh, or even fries—it’s super versatile.
• Can I Make Them Ahead of Time?
  Yes! You can make and store them uncooked in the fridge for 24 hours.
• Is It OK to Use Store-Bought Tzatziki?
  Absolutely. But blending it with mint and lemon takes it to another level.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 of 4 servings

• Calories: 241
• Total Fat: 15.5g
• Saturated Fat: 6.4g
• Sodium: 0.6g (600mg)
• Total Carbohydrate: 3.6g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.7g
• Sugars: 2.8g
• Protein: 21.7g

Try More Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Recipes:

• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Chicken Thighs
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Curry
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Mushroom Chicken