Juicy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

Mediterranean kitchens have perfected these delectable Greek turkey meatballs that dance with incredible flavor and zest.

Culinary traditions blend seamlessly in this simple yet mouthwatering dish.

Lean proteins meet classic herbs and spices for a seriously satisfying meal.

Crisp cucumber sauce adds a cool, tangy complement to the rich meat mixture.

Weeknight dinners need exciting options that pack serious nutrition and taste.

Minimal ingredients and quick preparation make this recipe a true winner for anyone seeking delicious, healthy eating.

Dive into this Greek-inspired feast that will transport you straight to a sunny coastal taverna.

Top Reasons To Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki

• Quick Family Weeknight Meal: Whips up in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy households craving delicious, nutritious dinner without extensive cooking skills.
• Healthy Protein Option: Lean ground turkey provides high-quality protein with lower fat content compared to traditional beef meatballs, supporting balanced nutrition goals.
• Mediterranean Flavor Explosion: Infused with classic Greek herbs like oregano and parsley, these meatballs deliver authentic Mediterranean taste that transports taste buds without complicated preparation techniques.
• Meal Prep Champion: Easily batch-cooked and stored, these meatballs can be prepared ahead of time, refrigerated, and reheated for convenient lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Ingredients

• Ground Turkey: Lean protein that forms the core of the meatballs, best when fresh and not too fatty.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and provides a light texture, plain or Italian-style work well.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatball mixture together, helps prevent crumbling.

• Parsley, Oregano: Fresh herbs that add classic Greek flavor and aromatic notes to the meatballs.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Provides depth of flavor without adding extra moisture, convenient alternative to fresh ingredients.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the meatballs, adjust to personal preference.

• Greek Yogurt: Creamy base for the tzatziki sauce, thick and tangy with a smooth consistency.
• Cucumber: Adds freshness and crunch to the tzatziki, best when seedless and finely grated.
• Garlic: Provides a sharp, pungent flavor to the sauce, fresh cloves recommended for best taste.
• Dill, Lemon Juice: Bright, zesty ingredients that complement the yogurt and add complexity to the tzatziki.

Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Preparation

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F and grab a baking sheet.

Cover it with parchment paper to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Meatball Mix

• Ground turkey
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Fresh parsley
• Dried oregano
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Gently mix everything until just combined.

Don’t overwork the meat or your meatballs might end up tough.

Step 3: Shape Delicious Morsels

Roll the mixture into cute little balls, each about the size of a golf ball.

Arrange them neatly on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each meatball.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Let the meatballs cook for 18-20 minutes.

They’re done when they turn a beautiful golden brown and are completely cooked through.

The inside should be white and no longer pink.

Step 5: Serve And Enjoy

Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.

Serve with fresh tzatziki sauce for a delightful Greek-inspired meal that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Tzatziki Tips for Greek Turkey Meatballs

• Mix ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make meatballs tough and dense.
• Add a splash of olive oil to the turkey mixture for extra moisture and richness in each bite.
• Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure uniform meatball sizes for consistent cooking.
• Swap traditional tzatziki with a dairy-free yogurt alternative made from coconut or almond yogurt for lactose-intolerant guests.
• Make a double batch and freeze uncooked meatballs for up to one month, saving time on future meals.

Greek Meatballs Storage Tips

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping them fresh and delicious.
• Seal meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they'll maintain quality for 2-3 months.
• Warm meatballs at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, ensuring they're heated evenly without drying out.
• Quickly reheat meatballs on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stopping midway to stir and prevent uneven heating.

Fresh Sides for Greek Turkey Meatballs

• Elevate Flavor Pairing: Crisp Greek Assyrtiko Wine complements the herbs and light turkey, cutting through the richness with its mineral notes and bright acidity.
• Mediterranean Salad Companion: Serve a fresh Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and feta to mirror the tzatziki's ingredients and enhance the meatballs' Mediterranean profile.
• Perfect Carb Partner: Warm pita bread or herbed couscous provides an ideal base, soaking up the tzatziki sauce and adding textural contrast to the tender meatballs.
• Refreshing Drink Match: Chilled cucumber lemonade offers a zesty, cool counterpoint that echoes the tzatziki's cucumber elements and cleanses the palate between bites.

Turkey Meatballs With Sauce Options

• Low-Carb Keto Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to reduce carbohydrates while maintaining meatball structure and adding extra protein.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• Vegetarian Transformation
• Dairy-Free Tzatziki Option: Create a dairy-free tzatziki by using coconut yogurt instead of traditional Greek yogurt, ensuring those with lactose intolerance can enjoy the classic sauce.

FAQs

• Are Greek turkey meatballs healthier than traditional beef meatballs?

Yes, turkey meatballs are lower in fat and calories compared to beef meatballs. Ground turkey provides a lean protein option that’s heart-healthy and perfect for those watching their cholesterol intake.

• Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. This swap maintains the texture while making the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• What herbs enhance the Greek flavor profile in these meatballs?

Parsley and oregano are key Mediterranean herbs that give these meatballs their authentic Greek taste. They add a fresh, aromatic quality that transforms the basic meatball into a flavorful Mediterranean dish.

• Is it possible to prepare the meatball mixture in advance?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs up to 24 hours before cooking. Cover and refrigerate the raw meatballs, which allows the flavors to meld and makes meal preparation faster when you’re ready to bake.

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

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4.9 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean flavors dance in these Greek turkey meatballs, blending lean protein with zesty herbs and creamy tzatziki. Succulent and lighter than traditional lamb versions, these meatballs bring Greek island charm directly to your plate, inviting you to savor each Mediterranean-inspired bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground turkey

Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Binding and Cooking Ingredients:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Tzatziki Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and warming the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Create a flavor-packed mixture by gently folding ground turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped parsley, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Shape the seasoned meat mixture into uniform round meatballs, approximately one inch in diameter, arranging them carefully on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast the meatballs in the preheated oven, allowing them to cook thoroughly and develop a golden-brown exterior, which typically takes 18-20 minutes.
5. Verify doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the meatballs appear crisp and evenly colored on the outside.
6. Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute, maintaining their tender texture.
7. Serve alongside cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, which complements the warm, herb-infused meatballs with a refreshing contrast.

Notes

• Prevent dry meatballs by avoiding overmixing the ground turkey, which can make them tough and dense.
• Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Enhance flavor by adding crumbled feta cheese directly into the meatball mixture for an extra Greek-inspired taste profile.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure turkey reaches 165°F internal temperature for safe consumption without overcooking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg