Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delicious, protein-packed meal full of Mediterranean flavors. The lean turkey ensures that the meatballs are light, while the fresh herbs and spices bring depth. Paired with the creamy and refreshing tzatziki, this dish is a perfect balance of savory and cool, making it ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:

• 1 lb 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)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)

• ½ cucumber, grated and drained

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tbsp olive oil

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.

2. Form the Meatballs
   Roll the mixture into 1-1.5 inch meatballs. Keep them consistent in size for even cooking.

3. Cook the Meatballs

   • Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

   • Pan-Fried: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

   • Air-Fried: Air-fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway.

4. Make the Tzatziki Sauce
   Grate and drain the cucumber to remove excess moisture. Combine the cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil in a bowl. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

5. Serve
   Serve the meatballs with a generous portion of tzatziki.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

• Keto-Friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and substitute with pork rind crumbs.

• Dairy-Free: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut or almond-based yogurt.

• Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the meatball mixture for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven or skillet.

• Reheating: For best results, reheat the meatballs in the oven or skillet. Serve tzatziki cold.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground chicken or beef can also be used in place of turkey.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, cooked meatballs freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

Can I make the tzatziki dairy-free?

Yes, use a plant-based yogurt such as coconut or almond yogurt for a dairy-free version.

How do I ensure the meatballs are cooked through?

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Can I add more herbs to the meatballs?

Absolutely! You can add thyme or basil for a different twist.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low-carb, but you can further reduce carbs by skipping the pita or rice.

What sides go well with these meatballs?

Serve with a Greek salad, quinoa, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

The breadcrumbs and egg help bind the meatballs together, but be sure to mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.

Can I use a store-bought tzatziki sauce?

Sure, but homemade tzatziki offers the best flavor and freshness!

How long can I store the tzatziki?

Store tzatziki in the fridge for up to 4 days. It can also be made ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld.

Conclusion

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a gathering, or just craving something healthy and tasty, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The balance of savory meatballs and refreshing tzatziki makes for a delightful combination that will keep you coming back for more.