Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with Mediterranean charm and wholesome goodness, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are here to steal your heart. These tender, flavorful meatballs bring together lean ground turkey seasoned with classic Greek herbs and spices, perfectly complemented by a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce that’s refreshingly tangy. Every bite feels like a warm hug at a Greek taverna, making this recipe not only a delicious meal but also an experience you’ll want to share again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the flavors just right is all about the simplicity and quality of your ingredients. Each one plays a special role: the turkey provides a lean and juicy base, the fresh herbs and spices add aromatic depth, and the tzatziki sauce brings that irresistible zest and creaminess to balance the dish perfectly.

• Ground turkey (1 lb/450g): Use lean turkey for a healthy protein-packed base that stays juicy.
• Breadcrumbs (⅓ cup): Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender; gluten-free options work great too.
• Egg (1 large): Acts as a natural binder for perfectly shaped meatballs.
• Garlic cloves (4 total): Minced garlic infuses a punch of rich, pungent flavor both into the meatballs and the tzatziki sauce.
• Onion (¼ cup finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to the meatballs.
• Fresh parsley (¼ cup chopped): Brings a touch of fresh vibrancy and color.
• Dried oregano (1 tsp): Essential Greek herb that gives authentic flavor.
• Ground cumin (½ tsp): Adds warmth and depth without overpowering the other herbs.
• Salt (½ tsp) and black pepper (¼ tsp): The perfect seasoning duo to bring all flavors together.
• Olive oil: Used for pan-frying or drizzling into the tzatziki for that silky smooth finish.
• Greek yogurt (1 cup): The base for rich and tangy tzatziki sauce; full-fat or low-fat both work well.
• Cucumber (½, grated and drained): Adds refreshing crunch and balances the yogurt’s creaminess.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp fresh): Brightens the tzatziki with a zesty lift.
• Fresh dill (1 tbsp chopped): Offers a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with cucumber and yogurt.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix gently with your hands until everything is incorporated, being careful not to overwork the mixture because that can make your meatballs tough. Once blended, shape the mixture into small balls roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This step lets you control size for even cooking and tender bites.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

There are a few ways to cook these meatballs depending on your preference and available equipment. For oven-baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs on a lined baking sheet for 15 to 20 minutes until they are golden and cooked through. If you prefer a pan-fried option, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches, turning every 4 to 5 minutes until browned on all sides and fully cooked inside. For a quicker, lighter method, use an air fryer set to 380°F (193°C), cooking for about 10 to 12 minutes and turning halfway through for even crispiness.

Step 3: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs cook, grate the cucumber and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to prevent watery sauce. In a bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, freshly-squeezed lemon juice, chopped dill, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For the best flavor, let the tzatziki chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving so all those fresh ingredients can mingle beautifully.

How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Garnishes

Top your meatballs with a vibrant sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill for a pop of green freshness. A little lemon wedge on the side invites your guests to add a tangy burst just before eating. Crumbled feta cheese can also enhance the dish with a salty kick.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair beyond wonderfully with warm, fluffy pita bread or crispy pita chips for dipping into the tzatziki. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with red onion dressed in olive oil and lemon juice complements the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, fluffy rice pilaf or quinoa makes the meal hearty and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting party platter, arrange the meatballs alongside small bowls of tzatziki and olives, with pita wedges fanning out around the edges. You could even thread the meatballs onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and bell pepper chunks for a festive finger food. Turning this classic Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki into sliders with mini buns and crisp lettuce is another fun twist that’s sure to delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the sauce separately to keep it fresh and creamy.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. The tzatziki sauce does not freeze well, so make a fresh batch when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep them juicy. Serve with fresh tzatziki for the best taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute for ground turkey and will give you similarly tender meatballs with a milder flavor.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for tzatziki?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt such as coconut or almond yogurt to make a dairy-free tzatziki-style sauce. Just be sure to pick an unsweetened, plain variety.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Using breadcrumbs and an egg as binders helps hold the meatballs together. Also, avoid overmixing the meat mixture, and handle the meatballs gently during shaping and cooking.

Can I make the meatballs fully in advance?

You can prepare and cook the meatballs a day ahead, store them in the refrigerator, and add tzatziki just before serving to keep flavors fresh.

What other herbs can I use if I don’t have fresh parsley or dill?

Dried herbs like oregano or mint can be used as alternatives, though fresh parsley and dill are ideal for authentic flavor and brightness in Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki.

Final Thoughts

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki combine comforting, savory meatballs with a bright, refreshing sauce to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is a winner every time. Don’t be surprised if they become your go-to dinner for weeks to come—once you taste them, you’ll understand why!

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