Name: Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 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); 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

Jump to Recipe

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. These tender turkey meatballs are packed with Mediterranean flavors from garlic, parsley, oregano, and cumin, creating a savory bite that’s perfectly complemented by the refreshing and creamy tzatziki sauce. Whether served as an appetizer, paired with a side of Greek salad, or enjoyed with pita bread, these meatballs offer a delicious way to incorporate lean protein and fresh ingredients into your meal.

What makes this recipe even better is how versatile it is. The tzatziki sauce, with its tangy yogurt and cucumber base, adds a cool and creamy element that enhances the meatballs without overpowering them. This recipe is also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to traditional meatballs, these Greek turkey meatballs are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are not only incredibly flavorful but also nutritious. Ground turkey is a lean source of protein, while the herbs and spices provide a burst of Mediterranean flavors without adding unnecessary calories. The tzatziki sauce is both refreshing and creamy, made with Greek yogurt and cucumber, which makes it light yet satisfying. The meatballs can be easily made ahead of time and are perfect for meal prep or freezing. Plus, they’re so versatile! You can serve them with pita, as a salad topping, or even as a snack with your favorite dipping sauces. The combination of flavors makes for a delightful and healthy meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:

Ground turkey (preferably lean)
Breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
Large egg
Garlic cloves (minced)
Finely chopped onion
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Dried oregano
Ground cumin
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil (for cooking if pan-frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
Cucumber (grated and drained)
Garlic clove (minced)
Fresh lemon juice
Fresh dill (chopped)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

Swap the Protein: Instead of turkey, you can use ground chicken or even ground lamb for a different take on the meatballs.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or carrots into the meatball mixture for added veggies.
Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based protein substitute, such as lentils or chickpeas, and bake them for a vegan-friendly version.
Dairy-Free Tzatziki: Swap the Greek yogurt for a non-dairy alternative like coconut or almond-based yogurt to make the tzatziki dairy-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the turkey mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have approximately 18-20 meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through on the inside (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Alternatively, you can bake the meatballs. Preheat the oven to 400°F and place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs cook, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out any excess moisture), minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Serve

Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them hot with a generous side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. Garnish with extra parsley or dill for a fresh touch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Avoid Overmixing: When making the meatball mixture, be careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
Moisture in the Meatballs: If the meatball mixture seems too dry, you can add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to make it more manageable.
Rest the Tzatziki: Let the tzatziki sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances its refreshing taste.
Baking Option: If you’re trying to avoid frying, baking the meatballs at 400°F will yield a crisp exterior while keeping the meatballs tender on the inside.

How to Serve

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

As an appetizer: Serve the meatballs on a platter with the tzatziki on the side for dipping.
In pita wraps: Stuff the meatballs into pita bread with fresh veggies like cucumber, tomato, and lettuce for a Mediterranean-inspired sandwich.
With a Greek salad: Serve the meatballs on top of a fresh Greek salad with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a complete meal.
With rice: Pair the meatballs with some warm rice and a drizzle of tzatziki for a balanced and flavorful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover meatballs and tzatziki sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The meatballs can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop, and the tzatziki sauce should be kept chilled until ready to serve.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat the meatballs, you can either bake them at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or reheat them on the stovetop in a little olive oil. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well in this recipe and offers a similar texture to turkey.

2. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Absolutely! You can bake the meatballs at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re fully cooked through.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking them.

4. Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or stovetop when ready to eat.

5. Can I use a different type of yogurt for the tzatziki sauce?

While Greek yogurt is traditional, you can substitute it with a non-dairy yogurt if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.

6. Can I add more vegetables to the meatballs?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

7. Is tzatziki sauce spicy?

No, tzatziki sauce is not spicy. It’s cool, creamy, and tangy due to the cucumber and lemon.

8. Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Yes, store-bought tzatziki can be used in a pinch, but homemade tzatziki offers a fresher, more flavorful option.

9. Can I add more seasoning to the meatballs?

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more cumin, oregano, or garlic for a bolder flavor.

10. Can I use dried dill in the tzatziki?

Fresh dill is preferred for tzatziki, but you can substitute dried dill if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill for every tablespoon of fresh dill.

Conclusion

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s full of flavor. The turkey meatballs are tender and savory, while the refreshing tzatziki sauce adds a creamy, tangy contrast. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, in a pita, or with a salad, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s a great way to enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal.