Irresistible Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

Name: Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned); 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cucumber, grated (for tzatziki); 1 cup Greek yogurt (for tzatziki); Juice of 1 lemon (for tzatziki); 2 tbsp olive oil

Recipe By:

Cristy Scott

Posted:

September 23, 2025

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There’s something about Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki that makes my taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs infused with aromatic herbs and spices, all while being paired with a creamy, cool tzatziki that sings of summer picnics and lazy afternoons. The flavors burst in your mouth like fireworks on the Fourth of July, bringing together the zestiness of lemon and the freshness of cucumber in one irresistible dish.

I first encountered this delightful combo during a family gathering where Uncle George decided to channel his inner chef. Let’s just say, it was a culinary adventure filled with laughter and slightly charred meatballs. But from that day forward, I became hooked on this bright, delicious dish that’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. So grab your apron and let’s embark on this flavorful journey together!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Greek Turkey Meatballs are easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Their flavor profile is rich and savory, perfectly balanced by refreshing tzatziki.
With vibrant colors and textures, they look stunning on any plate.
They’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes at any occasion!

Ingredients for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Turkey: Lean and flavorful, turkey is the star of this recipe. Choose high-quality ground turkey for the best taste.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the meatballs.
Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic packs a punch of flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion brings sweetness and moisture to the meatballs.
Dried Oregano: This herb adds an earthy aroma reminiscent of sunny Mediterranean gardens.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs while keeping them light.
Egg: One egg acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
Cucumber: Grated cucumber is essential for making tzatziki; it adds crunch and coolness.
Greek Yogurt: Thick and creamy yogurt forms the base for tzatziki, providing a luscious texture.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up both the meatballs and tzatziki for added zest.

For the Sauce:

Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil enhances flavors in both the meatball mixture and tzatziki sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a good spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Your Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped parsley, minced garlic, red onion, dried oregano, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and a splash of olive oil. Use your hands (don’t be shy) to mix everything until well combined.

Step 3: Shape Those Meatballs

With clean hands (this part is important), scoop out about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll them into balls. Aim for about an inch in diameter – not golf balls but not marbles either!

Step 4: Bake Them Up

Place your meatballs on the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C internally).

Step 5: Make Your Tzatziki

While those little flavor bombs are baking away happily in the oven, let’s whip up some tzatziki! In another bowl, mix grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), Greek yogurt, minced garlic (yes more!), lemon juice, salt, pepper, and another splash of olive oil.

Step 6: Serve It All Together

Once your meatballs are out of the oven looking golden and glorious—transfer them onto plates alongside your homemade tzatziki. Drizzle some extra olive oil over them if you dare!

Now dig into those juicy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki; they’re even better when shared with friends or family who can appreciate culinary masterpieces (or at least pretend). Enjoy!

You Must Know

This amazing Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the turkey with your spices and herbs, letting those flavors mingle while you prepare the tzatziki. Then, sear the meatballs to get that crispy exterior before finishing them off in the oven. Cook your sides while everything bakes for efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or beef if you’re feeling adventurous! Add feta cheese into the meat mixture for a salty kick, or throw in some chopped spinach for extra nutrients. Customize your tzatziki with diced cucumbers or fresh dill.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Greek Turkey Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they remain juicy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly juicy meatballs, avoid overmixing the turkey—this keeps them tender.
Searing first locks in flavor; don’t skip this step!
Always let your tzatziki chill for at least 30 minutes to develop its full flavor.

Sharing my first experience making Greek Turkey Meatballs brings back fond memories of a dinner party where everyone went back for seconds—it’s hard not to love a dish that wins hearts (and stomachs)!

FAQs

What are Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki?

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delicious and healthy dish that combines ground turkey with traditional Greek spices. The meatballs are baked or pan-fried until golden brown, and they are often served alongside a refreshing Tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. This dish is perfect for a satisfying meal or as an appetizer at gatherings.

How do I make the Tzatziki sauce for Greek Turkey Meatballs?

To make the Tzatziki sauce for your Greek Turkey Meatballs, start by grating a cucumber and squeezing out excess moisture. Then, mix it with plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This creamy sauce adds a cool contrast to the savory meatballs.

Can I freeze Greek Turkey Meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze Greek Turkey Meatballs! After cooking them, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.

What sides pair well with Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki?

Greek Turkey Meatballs pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them with a fresh Greek salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. You can also serve them alongside roasted vegetables or fluffy rice pilaf. Pita bread is another great option to soak up the delicious Tzatziki sauce.

Conclusion for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

In summary, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki offer a flavorful and nutritious option for any meal. These tender meatballs combine wholesome ingredients with aromatic spices to create a delightful dish. Paired with homemade Tzatziki sauce, they provide a refreshing contrast in flavor and texture. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike while keeping healthy eating in mind.

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