Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delightful, healthy dish that combines Mediterranean flavors with lean protein. Tender turkey meatballs, seasoned with garlic, herbs, and spices, are served with a creamy and refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for meal prep, a light dinner, or as an appetizer, this dish is both flavorful and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavorful & Fresh: Mediterranean herbs like oregano and parsley infuse the meatballs with incredible flavor, while the tangy tzatziki adds the perfect creamy contrast.
  • Healthy & Lean: Made with lean ground turkey, these meatballs are high in protein but low in fat.
  • Versatile: Serve with pita, rice, a fresh salad, or use in a Mediterranean bowl.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well and can be easily reheated.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Olive oil for cooking (if pan-frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Cook the Meatballs:
    • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes.
    • Pan-fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs for 4-5 minutes per side.
    • Air-fry: Air-fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes.
  4. Make the Tzatziki Sauce: Grate and drain the cucumber. Mix with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Serve: Pair the meatballs with the tzatziki sauce and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or skillet.
  • Reheating: Reheat meatballs in the oven or stovetop. Tzatziki is best served cold, so no need to reheat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground chicken or beef can work well in this recipe, though turkey is leaner.

Can I make the tzatziki dairy-free?

Yes, use a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, cooked meatballs freeze well for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or stovetop.

How do I make the tzatziki sauce thicker?

Grate and drain the cucumber thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the meatballs for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a healthy, tasty, and easy-to-make dish. Packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors, they’re perfect for a balanced meal or meal prep. Enjoy them with a side of pita or a refreshing Greek salad for the ultimate Mediterranean experience!

Print
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Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

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  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish, Mediterranean
  • Method: Baking, Pan-frying, Air-frying
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are packed with Mediterranean flavors, featuring tender turkey meatballs paired with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for meal prep, a light dinner, or as an appetizer, this healthy dish is both flavorful and nutritious.


Ingredients

For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Olive oil for cooking (if pan-frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
  • Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  • Cook the Meatballs:
    • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes.
    • Pan-fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs for 4-5 minutes per side.
    • Air-fry: Air-fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes.
  • Make the Tzatziki Sauce: Grate and drain the cucumber. Mix the cucumber with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
  • Serve: Serve the meatballs with the chilled tzatziki sauce.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground chicken or beef for the turkey.
  • For a dairy-free tzatziki, use a plant-based yogurt.
  • Make the meatballs spicier by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
  • Thoroughly drain the cucumber to ensure the tzatziki is thick.

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