Moroccan Spiced Meatball Skewers

Name: Moroccan Spiced Meatball Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or lamb; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp harissa paste; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Cultures on a Plate Recipes

Savor the exotic flavors of Morocco with these spiced meatball skewers, perfect for grilling or baking.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-04T04:06:29.591Z

These Moroccan Spiced Meatball Skewers bring a taste of North Africa to your table. The combination of warm spices and fresh herbs creates a delightful flavor that will transport you to a bustling market in Marrakech.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that awaken your senses
Juicy meatballs that are perfect for grilling
Great for meal prep or entertaining guests

      

The Essence of Moroccan Cuisine

Moroccan cuisine is celebrated for its bold flavors and aromatic spices, blending influences from Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean cultures. The use of spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon creates a symphony of taste that transports you to the bustling markets of Marrakech. Each bite of these spiced meatball skewers is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Morocco, making it a delightful experience for your palate.

These meatball skewers are not just a dish; they represent a gathering of friends and family around the grill, sharing stories and laughter. The fragrant aromas wafting through the air will entice everyone to come together, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

Versatile Cooking Options

Whether you're firing up the grill during a warm summer evening or looking for a cozy oven-baked meal on a chilly night, these Moroccan spiced meatball skewers adapt beautifully to your cooking preferences. Grilling imparts a smoky flavor that enhances the spices, while baking ensures a juicy texture and ease of preparation. No matter the method, you’ll enjoy delicious, tender meatballs bursting with flavor.

Additionally, these skewers are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch in advance, refrigerate or freeze, and then cook them as needed. They also reheat beautifully, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining unexpected guests.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing these meatball skewers with a refreshing salad or a side of fluffy couscous. A simple cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice complements the spices beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch. Alternatively, serve them alongside warm pita bread for a delightful texture contrast and to soak up the yogurt sauce.

For a complete Moroccan-inspired meal, consider adding a spiced vegetable tagine or roasted vegetables seasoned with similar spices. This variety not only enhances the flavors but also offers a colorful and vibrant presentation on the table.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef or lamb
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp harissa paste
Salt to taste

Note: Feel free to substitute the meat with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Thread the meatballs onto skewers, leaving a little space between each one.

Cook the Skewers

Preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, cook the skewers on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through. If baking, place on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, harissa paste, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Serve the meatball skewers with the yogurt sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Tip: Garnish with additional parsley and serve with pita bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To ensure your meatballs are juicy and flavorful, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Overworking the meat can lead to dense meatballs. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Additionally, using a mix of ground beef and lamb can enhance the flavor profile, giving you the best of both worlds.

When shaping the meatballs, consider making a test meatball and cooking it to check for seasoning. This little step can make a big difference, allowing you to adjust salt and spices before cooking the entire batch.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover meatball skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months and reheated straight from frozen.

To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be cautious as this can sometimes lead to a loss of texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef or lamb with ground turkey or chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can these skewers be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

These skewers pair well with couscous, salad, or warm pita bread.