Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki that makes every bite a celebration. This dish captures the vibrant flavors of Greece by combining tender, spiced turkey meatballs with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce that perfectly balances the richness of the meat. It’s an easy-to-make recipe bursting with fresh herbs, fragrant garlic, and refreshing cucumber, making it a delightful choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings alike. If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your home, these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into cooking, it’s important to gather simple yet essential ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the authentic taste and perfect texture of these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki. From fresh herbs to creamy yogurt, every item in this list works together in delicious harmony.

• Ground turkey (1 lb / 450g): Lean and tender, it forms the base for moist, flavorful meatballs without being too heavy.
• Breadcrumbs (⅓ cup): Adds just the right texture, keeping the meatballs light and preventing them from falling apart.
• Egg (1 large): Acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients together while adding richness.
• Garlic cloves (3 minced for meatballs, 1 minced for sauce): Infuses bold and aromatic flavor, central to Greek cuisine.
• Finely chopped onion (¼ cup): Moisturizes the meat mixture and adds subtle sweetness.
• Fresh parsley (¼ cup chopped): Brings a fresh, bright note to the meatballs, balancing out the savory spices.
• Dried oregano (1 tsp): A classic Greek herb that adds warmth and earthiness.
• Ground cumin (½ tsp): Introduces a touch of warmth and complexity to deepen the flavor profile.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Olive oil: For cooking and adding a silky richness, especially if pan-frying.
• Greek yogurt (1 cup): The creamy base of the tzatziki sauce, providing tang and smooth texture.
• Cucumber (½, grated and drained): Adds crisp freshness and a cooling effect in the tzatziki.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brings brightness and a little zing to the sauce.
• Fresh dill (1 tbsp chopped): Infuses the tzatziki with its iconic herbaceous flavor.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining your ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Be gentle when mixing—overworking the meat can make your meatballs tough, and nobody wants that. Aim for just enough to bring everything together.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once the mixture is well combined, roll it into small meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. You should end up with roughly 16-20 meatballs, perfect for sharing or enjoying leftovers.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

The cooking method is flexible depending on your mood or available kitchen tools. For oven baking, preheat to 400°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through. Prefer pan-frying? Heat some olive oil over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, achieving a beautiful sear. Got an air fryer? Preheat it to 380°F (193°C) and air fry the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway to get that crisp exterior.

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs cook, prepare your refreshing tzatziki sauce. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a paper towel or cheesecloth — this step is crucial to prevent a watery sauce. Mix the cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. For the best flavor, let the tzatziki chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, allowing all those vibrant tastes to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your golden Greek Turkey Meatballs with a generous dollop of chilled tzatziki on the side. This combination of warm, savory meatballs and cool, zesty sauce is utterly irresistible and sure to delight everyone at the table.

How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Garnishes

To elevate this dish, consider sprinkling extra chopped fresh parsley or dill on top of the meatballs. A few lemon wedges on the side add an optional fresh squeeze for brightness just before eating. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over everything can add an extra layer of richness that brings out the Mediterranean character perfectly.

Side Dishes

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki pair wonderfully with warm pita bread, fluffy rice pilaf, or a crisp Greek salad loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onions. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also complement the flavors well, adding textural contrast and color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the meatballs as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter. Include hummus, olives, dolmas, and fresh veggies for dipping alongside your tzatziki-spiked meatballs. You can also stack the meatballs in pita pockets with extra tzatziki, lettuce, and tomatoes for a hand-held, sandwich-like treat that’s perfect for casual lunches or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki, store the meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The meatballs stay fresh for about 3-4 days, while the tzatziki sauce keeps well for up to 2 days before it starts to lose its fresh tang.

Freezing

The meatballs freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Freeze the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze tzatziki separately in small portions but keep in mind that the texture may change once thawed, so fresh tzatziki might be preferable.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the meatballs in the oven or microwave until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep them moist and tender. Serve with freshly prepared or chilled tzatziki for that brilliant combination of temperatures and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and offers a similar lightness. The spices and flavors in the meatballs will still shine through beautifully.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. The texture might vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Definitely! You can mix and shape the meatballs a day before, then store them covered in the fridge. Cook them fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have fresh dill for the tzatziki?

Fresh dill adds an iconic flavor, but dried dill can be used in a pinch. Add about half the amount and adjust to taste, or try fresh mint for a twist.

Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep and freezing?

Yes, these Greek Turkey Meatballs freeze well and reheat easily, making them perfect for quick, healthy meals on busy days.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a delightful dish that’s packed with flavor yet easy enough for any day, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki deliver on every level. They’re savory, refreshing, and just downright comforting. Give this recipe a try and you might find it becoming a staple in your kitchen—and your heart.

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