Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are juicy, herby, and full of Mediterranean flavor. Made with lean ground turkey, fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon, these meatballs are light yet satisfying. Served with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, they make a perfect protein-packed dinner, meal prep option, or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy & High Protein – Lean turkey and Greek yogurt keep it light and filling.
• Fresh Mediterranean Flavor – Packed with garlic, herbs, and lemon zest.
• Versatile – Serve over rice, in pita wraps, or with roasted veggies.
• Great for Meal Prep – Easy to make ahead and reheat.
• Naturally Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

For the Greek Turkey Meatballs

• Ground turkey (93% lean preferred)
• Garlic, minced
• Red onion, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh dill or mint (optional for extra flavor)
• Lemon zest
• Egg
• Breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• Feta cheese, crumbled (optional but delicious)
• Salt & black pepper
• Olive oil (for baking or pan-searing)

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
• Cucumber, grated and drained
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice
• Fresh dill
• Salt & black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Make the Tzatziki

1. Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture with a towel or paper towel.
2. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), or heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, garlic, onion, parsley, dill/mint, lemon zest, egg, breadcrumbs, feta, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
4. Form into 1½-inch meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Option 1: Oven-Baked

1. Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F).

Option 2: Pan-Seared

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add meatballs in batches and cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side or drizzled over top.
2. Pair with rice, couscous, pita bread, or a simple salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (makes about 20 meatballs)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb/Keto: Omit breadcrumbs or use almond flour.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Paleo-Friendly: Use almond flour and dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki.
• Meal Prep Wraps: Serve meatballs in lettuce cups or low-carb tortillas with veggies and tzatziki.
• Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store meatballs and sauce in separate containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs (without tzatziki) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Microwave or reheat in a skillet. Tzatziki is best served cold and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

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

Do I need to include feta in the meatballs?

No, it’s optional—but it adds delicious creaminess and flavor.

What’s the best way to keep the meatballs juicy?

Use 93% lean turkey (not extra lean), and don’t overcook them.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Meatballs and tzatziki can both be made a day in advance.

Is tzatziki sauce healthy?

Yes—it’s high in protein, low in carbs, and made with fresh ingredients.

Can I grill the meatballs?

Yes, but use skewers or a grill pan to prevent them from falling through the grates.

What sides go best with this dish?

Try Greek salad, roasted veggies, couscous, or lemon rice.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes—use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

How can I make the meatballs dairy-free?

Skip the feta and use a dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki.

Conclusion

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are the perfect blend of savory, fresh, and satisfying. Easy to make and packed with protein and Mediterranean flavor, they’re great for dinner, meal prep, or entertaining. Serve them however you like—with rice, pita, or veggies—and don’t forget the creamy tzatziki to bring it all together!

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