Craving vibrant Mediterranean flavors? Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki is a Mediterranean Meatball Dish that blends lean turkey, aromatic herbs, and creamy tzatziki for a healthy, protein-packed meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining, this easy recipe bursts with garlic, oregano, and fresh dill. Ready in under 40 minutes, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki is a crowd-pleaser that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Ingredients for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Here’s what you’ll need for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki (serves 4, about 16 meatballs):
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey
- ½ cup (60g) breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup (40g) finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup (240g) Greek yogurt, full-fat
- ½ cup (60g) grated cucumber, drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or skillet
- Parchment paper (for baking)
- Grater or food processor (for cucumber)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight containers for storage
Ingredient Tips
- Turkey: Lean ground turkey keeps the meatballs light; ground chicken is a great substitute for this Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
- Breadcrumbs: Use panko or regular breadcrumbs; gluten-free options work for dietary needs.
- Cucumber: Drain well to keep tzatziki thick and creamy for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki.
- Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt ensures rich flavor; plain non-dairy yogurt works for dairy-free diets.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill add authenticity; dried versions can substitute (use 1 tsp dried per 1 tbsp fresh).
Directions for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Let’s make this Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki—a vibrant Mediterranean Meatball Dish!
Mix the Meatballs
In a large bowl, I combine 1 lb ground turkey, ½ cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, ¼ cup chopped onion, 2 tbsp parsley, 1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper. I mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender for this Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
Shape the Meatballs
I roll the mixture into 16 equal-sized meatballs (about 1–1.5 inches each), ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
Cook the Meatballs
Oven-Baked: I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pan-Fried: I heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, cooking meatballs for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Air-Fried: I air-fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until fully cooked for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki.
Make the Tzatziki
I grate ½ cup cucumber, drain excess liquid using a paper towel, and mix with 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp dill, 1 tsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I chill the tzatziki for 30 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve
I serve the meatballs warm with a generous dollop of tzatziki, perfect for dipping or drizzling over this Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 (4 meatballs per serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 20g carbs, 30g protein, 15g fat, 1g fiber
Variations
Try these twists on Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb version.
- Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for coconut or almond yogurt in the tzatziki for a dairy-free Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes to the meatball mix for a fiery twist.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh mint instead of dill in the tzatziki for a unique flavor, inspired by Layla Cooks’ creative recipes.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ cucumber blueberry feta salad for a fresh contrast.
- Serve with Layla Cooks’ warm pita or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Offer with Layla Cooks’ Classic Lemon Tart for a zesty dessert.
Storage
I store Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. For freezing, I store cooked meatballs (without tzatziki) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. I thaw meatballs overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in a skillet. I serve tzatziki cold, preparing fresh if needed.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Arrange Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki on a platter with tzatziki in a bowl for dipping, garnished with fresh dill or parsley.
- Garnish: Sprinkle extra parsley or a lemon wedge for a vibrant Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
- Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, sparkling water, or Layla Cooks’ iced herbal tea for a refreshing meal.
- Portion Size: 4 meatballs with 2 tbsp tzatziki per person for a main; 2–3 for an appetizer.
- Occasions: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or Mediterranean-themed gatherings.
FAQs
Can I use a different meat for the meatballs?
Yes, ground chicken or beef works well, though turkey keeps this Mediterranean Meatball Dish lean and light.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely, freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or skillet for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki.
How do I make the tzatziki dairy-free?
Use coconut or almond yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free tzatziki in this Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki celiac-friendly.
How do I keep the meatballs juicy?
Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture and ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) without overcooking for tender Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki.
More Dinner Recipes
- Classic Moussaka: A Hearty, Soul-Warming Treat
- Honey Garlic Salmon Air Fryer
- Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Conclusion
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a flavorful, healthy delight that bring Mediterranean magic to your table. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep or gatherings, this Mediterranean Meatball Dish combines juicy meatballs with creamy tzatziki for a crowd-pleasing dish. Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki, share with friends, and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite!
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Ingredients
For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 lb 450g 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 freshly squeezed
- 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Mix the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, I combine 1 lb ground turkey, ½ cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, ¼ cup chopped onion, 2 tbsp parsley, 1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper. I mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender for this Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
Shape the Meatballs
- I roll the mixture into 16 equal-sized meatballs (about 1–1.5 inches each), ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
Cook the Meatballs
- Oven-Baked: I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-Fried: I heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, cooking meatballs for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Air-Fried: I air-fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until fully cooked for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki.
Make the Tzatziki
- I grate ½ cup cucumber, drain excess liquid using a paper towel, and mix with 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp dill, 1 tsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I chill the tzatziki for 30 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve
- I serve the meatballs warm with a generous dollop of tzatziki, perfect for dipping or drizzling over this Mediterranean Meatball Dish.
Notes
Did you Like This Recipe? Please Rate and Comment Below!