Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a healthy and flavorful meal that’s perfect for meal prep, a family dinner, or simply craving a Mediterranean-inspired dish! Made with lean ground turkey, fresh herbs, and classic Greek spices, these meatballs are packed with protein and flavor. Paired with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, this dish is a winner for any occasion.

Ingredients for Greek Turkey Meatballs

For the meatballs, you’ll need:

• Lean Ground Turkey: A light and protein-packed base, lower in fat.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and adds texture.
• Egg: A binder to keep the meatballs from falling apart.
• Garlic and Onion: Essential for savory Mediterranean flavor.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Oregano): Authentic Greek flavors.
• Spices (Salt, Pepper, Cumin): Seasoning and warmth.

Ingredients for Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

• Greek Yogurt: The creamy base of tzatziki.
• Cucumber: Adds a fresh crunch to balance the richness.
• Garlic and Lemon Juice: Tang and zest to enhance the flavor.
• Fresh Dill: Key for the authentic taste.
• Olive Oil: Adds smoothness and richness to the sauce.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, finely chopped onion, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and cumin. Mix well.
2. Form and Shape the Meatballs
   Roll the mixture into small, uniform-sized meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Consistent sizes ensure even cooking.
3. Cook the Meatballs
   • Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked and golden.
   • Pan-Fried: Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
   • Air-Fried: Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Air-fry meatballs for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway.
4. Check for Doneness
   Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

How to Make Tzatziki Sauce

1. Grate and Drain Cucumber
   Grate the cucumber and drain it using a paper towel or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture. This step helps keep the sauce thick.
2. Combine Ingredients
   In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil. Stir well.
3. Adjust Seasonings
   Add salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to adjust the lemon juice or dill for your preferred flavor.
4. Chill the Sauce
   Let the tzatziki sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Serving Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

• With Pita or Rice: Add warm pita bread or fluffy rice for a complete meal.
• Fresh Vegetables: Pair with a Greek salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives.
• Make it a Bowl: Serve with rice or quinoa, add roasted veggies, and drizzle with extra tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired bowl.
• Meal Prep: These meatballs and sauce are great for meal prep. Store each separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to eat.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• Keto-Friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and use pork rind crumbs.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the meatballs for a spicy kick.

Health Benefits of Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

• High Protein: Turkey and Greek yogurt offer a rich source of protein to keep you full.
• Rich in Healthy Fats: Olive oil and Greek yogurt provide healthy fats beneficial for heart health.
• Low-Carb: Skip the pita or rice for a low-carb option.
• Nutrient-Dense: Fresh herbs, garlic, and yogurt contribute vitamins and antioxidants.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing Option: Freeze meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or skillet.
• Reheat: The best way to reheat meatballs is in the oven or skillet. Serve tzatziki cold.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of meat?
  Yes, ground chicken or beef can be used as a substitute for turkey.
• Can I freeze the meatballs?
  Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
• Can I make the tzatziki dairy-free?
  Yes! Use coconut or almond yogurt for a dairy-free option.

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450 kcal

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey (450g)
• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• 1 large egg
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Olive oil for cooking (if pan-frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
• ½ cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs
   In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the Meatballs
   Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter). This makes about 16-20 meatballs.
3. Cook the Meatballs
   • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
   • Pan-Fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden.
   • Air-Fry: Preheat to 380°F (193°C). Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Make the Tzatziki Sauce
   Grate and drain cucumber. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil. Stir and season with salt and pepper. Let sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve
   Serve meatballs with tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy with pita, rice, or a fresh salad!