Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with Mediterranean charm and wholesome flavors, look no further than these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki. Combining lean ground turkey seasoned with fragrant herbs and spices, these meatballs are tender yet packed with robust taste. Paired with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, this dish offers the perfect balance of warmth and freshness. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress your guests, this recipe brings a delightful combination to your table with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple but essential, each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in shaping the final flavor, texture, and aroma of your Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki. From fresh herbs to the perfect seasoning, every element works harmoniously to give you an unforgettable meal.

• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey: Opt for lean turkey to keep the meatballs juicy but healthy.
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: These bind the meat and add just the right texture; gluten-free works beautifully too.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder so your meatballs hold their shape perfectly.
• 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the meatballs with a punch of earthy, aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to the mixture.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): Brings bright, fresh herbal notes that lift the dish.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: The signature herb that ties your Greek meatballs to their Mediterranean roots.
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin: Offers a warm, slightly smoky depth.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides a subtle heat and complexity.
• Olive oil for cooking: A drizzle helps in pan-frying for a deliciously golden crust.
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat): The creamy base for a luscious homemade tzatziki.
• 1/2 cucumber (grated and drained): Adds refreshing crunch and moisture to your tzatziki sauce.
• 1 garlic clove (minced): Gives the tzatziki that signature garlicky zip.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Brightens the sauce with zesty acidity.
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped): Infuses an herbal fragrance that’s unmistakably Greek.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Smooths out the sauce with a silky richness.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Perfectly seasons the tzatziki for a harmonious dip.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by tossing ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper into a large mixing bowl. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon, taking care not to overwork it. Over-mixing can make your meatballs tough instead of tender and moist, so keep it light and even.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Once well combined, shape the mixture into small, uniform balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Using your hands makes this step easy and satisfying. You should end up with roughly 16 to 20 meatballs, perfect for a crowd or as leftovers!

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Choose your preferred cooking method: Oven baking yields tender meatballs with a golden finish; simply bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Prefer a crispier exterior? Pan-frying in olive oil over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side will do the trick. If you love your air fryer, preheat it to 380°F (193°C), and cook the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs cook, grate the cucumber and squeeze out any excess moisture using a paper towel or cheesecloth to avoid a watery sauce. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil. Stir this all together until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For the best flavor, chill the tzatziki in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate the warm Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki alongside a generous dollop of the sauce. This classic pairing balances perfectly, showcasing the tender, herb-kissed meatballs and the cool, tangy dip.

How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra dill on top adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that brightens every bite. A light drizzle of good olive oil over the tzatziki can also make your dish look restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair wonderfully with warm pita bread for scooping, fluffy rice that absorbs the flavors, or a crisp Greek salad loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Each side complements the savory meatballs and cool sauce in a different, delicious way.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling a little adventurous? Serve the Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki as part of a mezze platter alongside olives, roasted vegetables, hummus, and fresh bread. Alternatively, stuff the meatballs and tzatziki into pita pockets with crunchy lettuce and diced tomatoes for a handheld delight that’s perfect for casual lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick weekday meals. Keep the tzatziki in a separate container to maintain its fresh texture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Freeze the tzatziki separately if desired, though fresh sauce may be preferable after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them covered to retain moisture. Serve fresh tzatziki either chilled or slightly warmed to your liking.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield tender meatballs with a similar mild flavor. Just keep an eye on moisture content, as some chicken can be leaner than turkey.

Is it necessary to drain the grated cucumber for the tzatziki?

Yes, draining is key to prevent the sauce from becoming watery. Use a paper towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out excess liquid, ensuring a thick and creamy tzatziki.

Can I make the meatballs gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use ground oats as an alternative binder to keep the texture just right.

What’s the best way to store leftover tzatziki?

Store tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 2-3 days. Always give it a stir before serving as some separation is natural.

Can these meatballs be cooked fully in an air fryer?

Yes! Cooking the meatballs in an air fryer is a quick and healthier option that results in a nice crispy exterior and tender inside. Just be sure to turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.

Final Thoughts

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal that feels both special and comforting. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this Mediterranean favorite any night of the week. Trust me, once you try these meatballs paired with creamy tzatziki, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen and a new go-to for sharing tasty moments with family and friends.

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