Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

A Mediterranean Delight

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs. Infused with Mediterranean spices, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic, these meatballs are juicy, delicious, and perfect for serving as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a pita wrap. Paired with creamy tzatziki sauce, they deliver a burst of flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Lean: Made with ground turkey, these meatballs are lower in fat and calories than traditional meatballs.
• Full of Flavor: A mix of herbs, garlic, and feta cheese gives them an authentic Greek taste.
• Versatile: Serve with pita, over rice, on a salad, or as a party appetizer.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a go-to recipe.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Making the Meatballs:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.
3. Form the meatballs: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs: Bake for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

Making the Tzatziki Sauce:

1. Prepare the cucumber: Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Chill: Let the tzatziki sauce sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm pita bread and a side of Greek salad.
• Pair with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Use as a filling for a gyro-style wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.

Variations

• Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the feta cheese and use a dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep turkey meatballs from being dry?

To keep them juicy, avoid overmixing the meat and include moisture-rich ingredients like feta cheese, onion, and egg.

Can I cook these meatballs on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes! Heat a skillet with a little olive oil and cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use grated Parmesan, goat cheese, or omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free version.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.

How do I make tzatziki sauce thicker?

Ensure you drain the grated cucumber well before mixing it with the yogurt.

What side dishes go well with these meatballs?

Greek salad, hummus, roasted potatoes, or couscous are great options.

Can I make the meatball mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix and shape the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

For a keto version, use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and a full-fat Greek yogurt for the tzatziki.

How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the pan?

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with oil.

Can I make tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours in the fridge.

Conclusion

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. Whether you serve them as a main course, appetizer, or in a pita wrap, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the perfect balance of lean protein, fresh herbs, and creamy tzatziki in every bite!

Print