Description
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are the perfect combination of bold Mediterranean flavors, lean protein, and creamy, refreshing sauce. These juicy meatballs are seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, then paired with a homemade tzatziki sauce that adds a cool and tangy contrast. Whether served with warm pita, over rice, or as part of a mezze platter, this dish is satisfying, nutritious, and easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with a taste of Greece!
Ingredients
For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 large egg
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil for cooking (if pan-frying)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Gently mix the ingredients until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender).
- Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter). You should get around 16-20 meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs (Choose a Method):
- Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Pan-Fried: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Air-Fried: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the meatballs in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a paper towel or cheesecloth.
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the tzatziki sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side.
- Pair with pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for an added burst of flavor.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture, as it can make the meatballs tough.
- Let the tzatziki chill before serving to enhance its flavor.
- Make extra meatballs—they freeze well and reheat beautifully!
- Customize by adding red pepper flakes for a bit of spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop / Oven / Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean