Name: Easy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: Ground Turkey (1 lb); Breadcrumbs (1/3 cup); Large Egg (1); Garlic Cloves (3, minced); Onion (1/4 cup finely chopped); Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup chopped); Dried Oregano (1 tsp); Ground Cumin (1/2 tsp); Salt (1/2 tsp); Black Pepper (1/4 tsp); Olive Oil; Greek Yogurt (1 cup, plain); Cucumber (1/2, grated and drained); Garlic Clove (1, minced); Lemon Juice (1 tbsp); Fresh Dill (1 tbsp, chopped); Olive Oil (1 tbsp); Salt and Pepper (to taste)

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Imagine walking into your kitchen, the fragrant aroma of spices wafting through the air as you prepare to make something truly special. These Easy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a feast for the senses, featuring tender meatballs infused with fresh herbs and served with a creamy, cool dipping sauce. Picture the vibrant colors—rich greens from parsley and cucumber, warm golden-brown meatballs fresh out of the oven, and the tempting white of the tzatziki that beckons you closer.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Easy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Easy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Easy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Thinking back to my childhood, I vividly remember family gatherings drenched in laughter, where my grandma would whip up her famous meatballs, a recipe passed down through generations. As a kid, there was something magical about those moments, surrounded by family, savoring each bite. Now, I find myself recreating those cherished memories, and this recipe makes it easier than ever. So, whether you’re prepping for a cozy weeknight dinner or want to impress friends at a gathering, I can’t wait for you to try these delicious, nutritious meatballs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip these up in just 35 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Irresistible Flavor: Juicy turkey meatballs bursting with garlic and fragrant herbs.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Golden-brown meatballs that are as beautiful as they are tasty.
Flexible Serving: Great for meal prep, served with pita, rice, or a refreshing salad.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to gluten-free or low-calorie diets!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Turkey (1 lb): Lean and healthy, turkey is low in fat yet high in protein. Aim for lean ground turkey for the best texture. You could substitute with lean ground chicken or pork if desired.
Breadcrumbs (1/3 cup): These help bind the meatballs while keeping them tender. Regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs work, so go with what suits your needs!
Large Egg (1): This acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together. You could use a flax egg as a substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Garlic Cloves (3, minced): Fresh garlic brings a bold flavor that enhances the meatballs — don’t skip it!
Onion (1/4 cup finely chopped): Adds moisture and sweetness to the mix. Shallots could work in a pinch for a milder flavor.
Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup chopped): Brightens the meatball with freshness. You can swap it for fresh mint if you want a twist on tradition.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp): A staple in Greek cuisine; it enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.
Ground Cumin (1/2 tsp): This warm spice adds depth to the turkey, giving it a lovely warmth and earthiness.
Salt (1/2 tsp) & Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste.
Olive Oil: Use for cooking if you choose to pan-fry; it adds flavor and helps crisp the meatballs.
Greek Yogurt (1 cup, plain): A creamy base for the tzatziki that’s both refreshing and healthy. Full-fat or low-fat is fine!
Cucumber (1/2, grated and drained): Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch perfect for balance in the creamy tzatziki.
Garlic Clove (1, minced): Another layer of flavor in the tzatziki – fresh is best!
Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the sauce and balances the flavors beautifully; fresh juice is key!
Fresh Dill (1 tbsp, chopped): Adds a wonderful touch of herbaceousness. You can substitute with mint if you prefer a change.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): This enriches the tzatziki, adding a smooth texture.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): For finishing touches on your tzatziki.

How to Make Easy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Combine the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, you’ll want to combine the ground turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix these together, being careful not to over-mix. We want lovingly tender meatballs! Once mixed, form this mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should yield approximately 16-20 meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs: Here are a few cooking options! For oven-baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Prefer pan-frying? Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding a dash of olive oil. Cook the meatballs in batches, 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden and delicious. If you have an air fryer, preheat to 380°F (193°C) and cook them for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through for an even crisp.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: While those meatballs are cooking, it’s time to whip up your tzatziki! Grate the cucumber, then drain it using a paper towel or cheesecloth to eliminate excess moisture—this keeps your sauce from becoming watery. In a separate bowl, combine the drained cucumber with Greek yogurt, the second garlic clove, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil. Stir everything well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. For the best flavor, cover and let this chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Serve!: Once the meatballs are beautifully cooked, bring out that tzatziki. Serve the turkey meatballs warm alongside a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. They pair perfectly with pita bread, fluffy rice, or a fresh crisp salad, Turning your meal into a Mediterranean feast!

Storing & Reheating

Once your meatballs are cooked, storing them is a breeze! If left at room temperature, they should be fine for about 2 hours. For longer storage, pop them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll last up to 4 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each meatball individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warmed through. Just keep in mind that freezing may alter their texture slightly, but a quick reheating helps bring back their juicy goodness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid over-mixing the turkey mixture to keep your meatballs light and tender.
Make sure the ingredients, such as the egg, are at room temperature for better mixing.
Consider a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you’re making these ahead, you can freeze them uncooked, then bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a squeeze of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a flavor kick.
Chill your tzatziki if you can, as the flavors meld together beautifully over time.

The delightful combination of flavors in these turkey meatballs, paired with the cool and creamy tzatziki, makes every bite enjoyable. This dish not only nourishes but also brings joy to your dining experience. Don’t hesitate to play around with herbs or spices to make this your own. I hope you enjoy creating these Easy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki and that they become a staple in your kitchen just as they’ve become in mine.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works wonderfully and will still deliver that juicy, moist texture you’re looking for. Just remember that chicken might have a slightly different flavor profile, but it will still create a delicious meatball!

How can I make tzatziki without yogurt?

If you’d like a non-dairy version, try using cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth. You can also add a splash of lemon juice and some herbs to mimic the tanginess and freshness of traditional tzatziki.

Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They’re perfect for meal prep as they store well in the fridge for several days and can be easily frozen too. Just cook a batch, allow them to cool completely, and store them in portions for quick meals throughout the week.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are versatile! Serve them in pita bread, over rice, or alongside a refreshing salad. Additionally, they make excellent appetizers for parties, paired with the tzatziki for dipping.

Get ready for your kitchen to fill with the delightful aroma of these easy-to-make Greek turkey meatballs, and enjoy every scrumptious bite!