Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
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Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a flavorful, high-protein dish inspired by Mediterranean cooking. These tender, herb-infused turkey meatballs are baked or pan-seared to perfection, then served with cool, creamy tzatziki for the ultimate refreshing contrast. Packed with garlic, lemon, fresh herbs, and warm spices, this recipe delivers vibrant Greek flavors in every bite perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or light lunches.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

This Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki recipe stands out for its simplicity, lean protein content, and bold flavor profile. The combination of juicy turkey meatballs and refreshing tzatziki makes it perfect for weeknight meals, gatherings, or healthy meal-prep bowls. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced cook, this recipe delivers consistently delicious results.

All Ingredients You’ll Ever Need

  • For the Meatballs:
    • 450g ground turkey
    • 1 small onion, finely grated
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 egg
    • ½ cup breadcrumbs
    • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
    • 1 tbsp chopped dill
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • Zest of 1 lemon
    • ½ tsp oregano
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Tzatziki:
    • 1 cup Greek yogurt
    • ½ cucumber, grated and drained
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 1 tbsp fresh dill
    • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • Salt and pepper

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Special Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking tray or skillet
  • Grater for cucumber and onion
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a bowl, combine ground turkey, grated onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—avoid over-mixing.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into small meatballs using damp hands for easier shaping.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes or pan-sear in olive oil until browned and fully cooked inside.

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki
Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and chill.

Step 5: Serve Together
Serve meatballs warm with chilled tzatziki. Add lemon wedges or fresh herbs for extra brightness.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

  • Serve with warm pita, Greek salad, or rice bowls.
  • Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for color.
  • Drizzle olive oil or add lemon zest on top for a Mediterranean finish.
  • For meal prep, pair with quinoa and roasted vegetables.

Extra Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t skip squeezing water from the cucumber—this keeps tzatziki thick.
  • Use a mix of parsley and dill to get authentic Greek flavor.
  • For juicier meatballs, add a splash of milk to the mixture.
  • Bake on parchment to keep meatballs tender and prevent sticking.

Variations You Can Try

  • Spicy Greek Meatballs: Add chili flakes or harissa.
  • Low-carb version: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Chicken meatballs: Swap turkey for ground chicken.
  • Herb explosion: Add mint for a fresh twist.

FAQ’s – 10 Most Common Questions About Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Q1: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, they store well in the fridge for 3 days and freeze beautifully.

Q2: Can I bake instead of fry?
A: Absolutely baking keeps them lean and juicy.

Q3: What makes them taste “Greek”?
A: Dill, parsley, garlic, lemon, and oregano give them classic Greek flavor.

Q4: Can I make them without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, replace with almond flour or oat flour.

Q5: Why are my meatballs dry?
A: Add more onion or a tablespoon of milk for extra moisture.

Q6: Can I use low-fat yogurt for tzatziki?
A: Yes, but full-fat gives the best creamy texture.

Q7: Can I make the tzatziki vegan?
A: Yes, use coconut or almond yogurt.

Q8: Can I add feta to the meatballs?
A: Definitely it adds richness and authentic Greek flavor.

Q9: Are these good for meal prep?
A: Very! They hold flavor and structure well in containers.

Q10: Can I air-fry the meatballs?
A: Yes, air-fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes.

Conclusion

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delicious, protein-packed Mediterranean dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. With juicy herb-laden meatballs and refreshing creamy tzatziki, this recipe is perfect for quick dinners, healthy lunches, or meal prep. Try it once it will definitely become a favorite in your kitchen!

Print
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Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

  • Author: RawnisAdmin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking or Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Halal

Description

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are tender, juicy, and packed with herbs and spices. Paired with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, they make a perfect Mediterranean-inspired meal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 450g ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped dill
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cucumber, grated and drained
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, grated onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined.
  2. Form into small meatballs with damp hands for easier shaping.
  3. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes or pan-sear in olive oil until fully cooked and golden brown.
  4. For the tzatziki, combine Greek yogurt, grated and squeezed cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and chill before serving.
  5. Serve warm meatballs with cold tzatziki and optional garnishes like lemon wedges or extra herbs.

Notes

  • Use full-fat yogurt for the creamiest tzatziki.
  • Don’t skip squeezing the cucumber to avoid watery sauce.
  • Add a splash of milk to the meatball mix for extra juiciness.
  • Line the baking tray with parchment to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Greek turkey meatballs, tzatziki, Mediterranean recipe, healthy meal prep, high-protein lunch

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