Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a healthy and tasty Mediterranean dish. They are made with lean ground turkey, herbs, and spices. The meatballs are served with cool and creamy tzatziki sauce.
These meatballs are perfect for a quick dinner or a special meal. They are easy to cook and full of flavor. Everyone will love their juicy and soft texture.
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are healthy and rich in protein. They can be served with pita, rice, or salad. This dish is simple, delicious, and good for any occasion.
Why Greek Turkey Meatballs Deserve a Place on the Table
Greek-style meatballs, often known as keftedes, are traditionally made with beef or lamb. By using turkey, we achieve a leaner profile without sacrificing moisture or depth of flavor. The combination of garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, and lemon zest creates a vibrant Mediterranean flavor base. When served with tzatziki, the contrast between warm, savory meatballs and chilled yogurt sauce elevates the entire experience.
Ingredients for Greek Turkey Meatballs
For the Meatballs
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Ground turkey (lean but not extra-lean)
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Fresh garlic, finely minced
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Yellow onion, grated
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Fresh parsley, finely chopped
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Dried oregano
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Ground cumin
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Lemon zest
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Egg
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Breadcrumbs or almond flour
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Extra virgin olive oil
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Sea salt
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Freshly ground black pepper
Each ingredient plays a precise role. The grated onion and olive oil ensure moisture, while lemon zest and herbs provide brightness and aroma. Breadcrumbs bind the mixture gently, preventing density.
Ingredients for Authentic Tzatziki Sauce
For the Tzatziki
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Greek yogurt (full-fat for best texture)
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English cucumber, grated and drained
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Fresh garlic
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Extra virgin olive oil
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Fresh dill
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Fresh lemon juice
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Sea salt
Authentic tzatziki relies on balance. Thick yogurt forms the base, cucumber adds freshness, garlic provides bite, and dill delivers unmistakable Greek character.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing the Turkey Meatballs
We begin by combining the ground turkey with garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. The egg and breadcrumbs are folded in gently to avoid overmixing. Overworking the meat can result in toughness, so we mix just until combined.
The mixture is shaped into evenly sized meatballs to ensure consistent cooking. Lightly coating the hands with olive oil prevents sticking and adds flavor.
Cooking Methods for Perfect Results
Greek turkey meatballs can be prepared using multiple methods depending on preference:
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Pan-seared: Produces a golden crust and rich flavor.
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Baked: Offers a lighter approach with even cooking.
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Air-fried: Delivers crisp edges with minimal oil.
Regardless of method, meatballs are cooked until just done, preserving juiciness and tenderness.
Crafting the Perfect Tzatziki
We grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent a watery sauce. The cucumber is then mixed with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and salt. The tzatziki is chilled before serving, allowing flavors to meld and deepen.
This sauce is creamy, tangy, and refreshing, making it the ideal complement to savory turkey meatballs.
Serving Suggestions for Greek Turkey Meatballs
Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki are exceptionally versatile. We recommend serving them:
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With warm pita bread and fresh vegetables
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Over lemon herb rice or quinoa
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Alongside a Greek salad with feta and olives
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As a protein-rich appetizer with toothpicks
They also work beautifully in wraps, grain bowls, or mezze platters.
Nutritional Benefits of Greek Turkey Meatballs
This dish delivers exceptional nutritional value:
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High-quality lean protein from turkey
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Probiotics from Greek yogurt
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Healthy fats from olive oil
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Low carbohydrate and gluten-free adaptable
It fits well into Mediterranean, low-carb, and high-protein meal plans.
Flavor Variations and Enhancements
We can easily customize Greek turkey meatballs to suit different tastes:
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Add crumbled feta for richness
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Incorporate spinach for added nutrition
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Use mint and dill instead of parsley
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Spice with red pepper flakes for heat
Each variation preserves the Greek identity while offering new layers of flavor.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Greek turkey meatballs are ideal for meal prep. Cooked meatballs can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. Tzatziki should be stored separately and consumed within three days for optimal freshness.
Reheat meatballs gently to maintain moisture, and always serve tzatziki chilled.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
We focus on precision, balance, and authenticity. Every step is designed to produce consistently excellent results. The combination of lean turkey, traditional Greek seasonings, and homemade tzatziki creates a dish that is both wholesome and indulgent.
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki represent the best of Mediterranean cooking—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and timeless appeal.
A Dish That Belongs in Every Kitchen
This recipe is suitable for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, and healthy meal planning. It delivers restaurant-quality flavor with approachable techniques. We believe Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki deserve a permanent place in modern kitchens that value flavor, nutrition, and authenticity.