Love Mediterranean flavors? Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are an irresistible blend of spices and fresh ingredients!
This easy recipe is not only packed with protein but also full of classic Greek flavors, like garlic, oregano, and fresh herbs.
These meatballs pair perfectly with creamy, homemade tzatziki sauce. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a crowd, or just craving something healthy and flavorful, this dish is a winner.
Follow along for tips, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to make this delightful recipe at home!
Ingredients for Greek Turkey Meatballs
To create these delicious meatballs, you’ll need a mix of lean protein, fresh herbs, and classic Mediterranean spices.
- Lean Ground Turkey – Provides a light, protein-packed base that’s lower in fat.
- Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and adds a bit of texture.
- Egg – Works as a binder to keep the meatballs from falling apart.
- Garlic and Onion – Essential for adding depth and a savory Mediterranean taste.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Oregano) – Gives that authentic Greek flavor and aroma.
- Spices (Salt, Pepper, Cumin) – Adds seasoning and a hint of warmth to the flavor profile.
Ingredients for Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
A traditional Greek meal isn’t complete without tzatziki! This cool, creamy sauce pairs perfectly with turkey meatballs.
- Greek Yogurt – The creamy, protein-packed base of tzatziki.
- Cucumber – Adds freshness and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of yogurt.
- Garlic and Lemon Juice – Gives zest and tang, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
- Fresh Dill – This herb is key for an authentic Greek taste.
- Olive Oil – Adds smoothness and richness to the sauce, making it extra satisfying.
How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs
Now, let’s walk through how to prepare the meatballs. This recipe works well baked, pan-fried, or even air-fried, giving you options based on your preference!
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, finely chopped onion, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and cumin. Mix until everything is well incorporated. - Form and Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into small, uniform-sized meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Try to keep them consistent so they cook evenly. - Cook the Meatballs
- Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
- Pan-Fried: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Air-Fried: Air-fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Check for Doneness
Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety, while ensuring the meatballs stay juicy.
How to Make Tzatziki Sauce
The homemade tzatziki is easy to whip up and requires only a few simple steps.
- Grate and Drain Cucumber
Start by grating the cucumber and then draining it with a paper towel or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture. This keeps the sauce thick and prevents it from getting watery. - Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. - Adjust Seasonings
Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. Feel free to add more lemon juice or dill to adjust the flavor. - Chill the Sauce
For the best flavor, let the tzatziki sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the sauce extra refreshing.
Tips for Serving Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Serve your meatballs and tzatziki with these delicious pairing ideas:
- With Pita or Rice: Add a side of warm pita bread or fluffy rice to make it a complete meal.
- Fresh Vegetables: Pair with a fresh Greek salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives.
- Make it a Bowl: Serve with rice or quinoa, add roasted veggies, and drizzle with extra tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired bowl.
- Meal Prep: These meatballs and sauce are perfect for meal prep. Simply store each component separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to eat.
Recipe Variations and Modifications
This recipe is easy to adapt to different diets and preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binding agent.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and use pork rind crumbs instead.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute Greek yogurt in the tzatziki with a coconut yogurt for a dairy-free sauce.
- Add Spiciness: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the meatball mixture if you like a little heat.
Health Benefits of Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
This recipe isn’t just flavorful – it’s packed with nutrition benefits:
- High Protein: Ground turkey and Greek yogurt provide a high-protein content, which keeps you full and helps with muscle repair.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: The olive oil and Greek yogurt add healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
- Low-Carb: This dish can easily be made low-carb by skipping the pita or rice and serving with veggies instead.
- Nutrient-Dense: Fresh herbs, garlic, and yogurt contribute vitamins and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To enjoy these meatballs and tzatziki over the week, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store the meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Option: You can freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge and warm in the oven or skillet.
- Best Way to Reheat: Oven or stovetop works best for reheating meatballs. Serve the tzatziki cold, as it doesn’t require reheating.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground chicken or beef can also work well in this recipe, though turkey gives a leaner option.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, cooked meatballs freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat in the oven or stovetop.
Can I make the tzatziki dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a healthy and flavorful dish featuring lean turkey, fresh herbs, and a creamy yogurt sauce.Perfect for meal prep or a balanced dinner, this recipe captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at your table.
Ingredients
For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 lb 450g ground turkey (preferably lean)
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs regular or gluten-free
- 1 large egg
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil for cooking if pan-frying
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt plain, full-fat or low-fat
- ½ cucumber grated and drained
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Using your hands, roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter). This should yield approximately 16-20 meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs
- Oven-Baked Option: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Pan-Fried Option: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Add meatballs in batches, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Air Fryer Option: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place meatballs in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
Make the Tzatziki Sauce
- Grate the cucumber and drain it using a paper towel or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil.
- Stir well, then season with salt and pepper to taste. For the best flavor, let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve
- Serve the turkey meatballs with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side.
- Enjoy with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!