There is something undeniably delightful about these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe that feels like a warm hug from the Mediterranean. Tender, flavorful turkey meatballs are infused with fresh herbs and tangy feta, then paired with a cool and creamy homemade tzatziki sauce that balances every bite perfectly. This dish brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a meal that’s both healthy and irresistibly satisfying—ideal for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the vibrant flavors and textures that make these meatballs a standout. From fresh herbs to feta cheese, each element contributes to the authentic Greek experience that’s both nourishing and delicious.
- Ground turkey: The lean base for meatballs, offering a light and tender texture.
- Red onion: Finely chopped for subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Adds sharp, aromatic notes essential for depth of flavor.
- Fresh parsley: Brings brightness and a fresh herbal touch.
- Fresh dill: A quintessential herb that adds that unmistakably Greek aroma.
- Dried oregano: Earthy and slightly bitter, rounding out the herb profile.
- Salt and black pepper: Seasoning essentials that enhance every other flavor.
- Ground cumin: Offers a warm, slightly nutty undertone to the meatballs.
- Plain breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
- Large egg: Acts as a natural binder for the mixture.
- Olive oil: Used for cooking and adding richness.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Salty and creamy, it melts just enough inside the meatballs for amazing flavor bursts.
- Plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the tzatziki, providing tang and smoothness.
- Grated cucumber (squeezed dry): Adds crunch and refreshing coolness to the tzatziki.
- Lemon juice: Gives the sauce a bright, zesty lift.
How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
Begin by combining ground turkey, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, dill, dried oregano, salt, pepper, cumin, breadcrumbs, the egg, and crumbled feta in a large bowl. Mix everything gently until just combined. The key here is not to overmix so the meatballs stay tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into uniform 1 1/2-inch meatballs. Keeping them consistent in size ensures even cooking and a perfect bite every time.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the meatballs in a single layer. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until each side is beautifully browned and the meatballs are cooked through. That golden exterior locks in the juices and adds flavor you won’t want to miss.
Step 4: Prepare the Tzatziki
While the meatballs are cooking, stir together Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Chill the tzatziki until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld into a cool, refreshing sauce that complements the savory meatballs perfectly.
How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped fresh dill or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness when plating. A wedge of lemon on the side invites a squeeze of brightness right before eating, elevating the whole flavor experience.
Side Dishes
These meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside fluffy couscous or fragrant rice for a filling meal. They also pair wonderfully with a crisp Greek salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onion for a light, balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stuff the meatballs and tzatziki inside warm pita bread with lettuce and tomatoes to make handheld Greek-inspired sandwiches. Another idea is to serve the meatballs over a bed of roasted vegetables or alongside grilled flatbreads for a casual yet impressive spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more after resting, making leftovers just as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, providing an easy grab-and-go option for busy nights.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen meatballs gently in a skillet over medium heat or warm them in the oven until heated through. For the best flavor, serve with freshly made or thawed tzatziki to keep that cooling contrast.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute if you want a slightly milder flavor. Just follow the same recipe steps, and you’ll get wonderfully tender Greek meatballs.
How do I make sure my meatballs don’t fall apart?
Using breadcrumbs and an egg as binders helps keep the meatballs together. Also, be sure to mix the ingredients gently and avoid over-handling the meat, which can cause them to become tough or crumbly.
Is it possible to bake these meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a convenient alternative. Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until cooked through and golden, turning halfway through for even color.
Can I prepare the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! Tzatziki actually tastes better after chilling for at least an hour as the flavors blend beautifully. Just make sure to squeeze out excess cucumber water to keep it thick and creamy.
What can I serve if I don’t have Greek yogurt for tzatziki?
If you can’t find Greek yogurt, use a thick plain yogurt and strain it with cheesecloth for a few hours to remove extra liquid. This helps achieve the right consistency for authentic tzatziki.
Final Thoughts
Making these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe feels like welcoming a little Mediterranean sunshine into your kitchen. The combination of tender, herb-infused meatballs with refreshing tzatziki sauce is simply irresistible and perfect any night of the week. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
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Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a flavorful and healthy main course inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. Made with lean ground turkey, fresh herbs, and crumbled feta, these meatballs are cooked on the stovetop to a juicy perfection and served with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, they pair wonderfully with rice, couscous, or pita bread.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber, squeezed dry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh dill, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, ground cumin, plain breadcrumbs, large egg, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat mixture which can toughen the meatballs.
- Form the Meatballs: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides and cook through until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: While the meatballs cook, mix Greek yogurt, grated and squeezed cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well, then chill the sauce until ready to serve to enhance the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs warm with a generous dollop of the chilled tzatziki sauce on the side. These can be enjoyed as is, or served over rice, couscous, or in pita bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Prepare meatballs in advance and refrigerate or freeze for quick meals later.
- Substitute ground chicken if preferred for a lighter flavor.
- For extra zest, serve with fresh lemon wedges.
- Pair with a traditional Greek salad to complete the meal.
