Name: Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (preferably lean); 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; 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

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 20 reviews

If you’re craving a meal that’s big on flavor, nourishing, and truly captures the spirit of Mediterranean cuisine, look no further than Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki. This dish pairs juicy, herby turkey meatballs with a refreshingly creamy yogurt-cucumber sauce for a combination that’s as irresistible as it is wholesome. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect meal prep lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki checks every box for taste, satisfaction, and simplicity.

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki is in their simplicity: every ingredient is chosen for freshness and flavor, with no fillers or fuss. Each element brings its own brightness, richness, or texture, making this a truly vibrant dish from start to finish.

Ground Turkey: Lean and juicy, ground turkey forms the perfect blank canvas for Mediterranean herbs and spices.
Breadcrumbs: These hold the meatballs together and keep them tender—use regular or gluten-free depending on your needs.
Egg: Acts as the binding agent, ensuring your meatballs keep their shape while staying moist inside.
Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic infuses every bite with classic Mediterranean allure and savory zing.
Onion: Finely chopped for just the right amount of moisture and mild sweetness.
Fresh Parsley: Brings color and bright herbal notes that balance the rich turkey.
Dried Oregano: This quintessential Greek herb lends a warm, earthy flavor.
Ground Cumin: Adds a subtle nuttiness and depth to the meatballs.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out all those wonderful flavors—don’t skimp here!
Olive Oil: Perfect for pan-frying to get that golden, crisp exterior.
Greek Yogurt: The base of your dreamy tzatziki—choose full-fat for extra creaminess or low-fat to keep things lighter.
Cucumber: Grated and drained, it adds crunch and coolness to your tzatziki sauce.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for just the right tang to wake up the sauce.
Fresh Dill: Chopped dill is the secret to authentic and aromatic tzatziki.
Salt & Pepper (for tzatziki): Elevates the flavors and helps balance the freshness of other ingredients.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Mix Your Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix them together just until all the ingredients are evenly dispersed. Be gentle—over-mixing leads to tough meatballs, and we want them meltingly tender!

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

With clean hands, roll the mixture into balls about an inch to an inch and a half in diameter. You should get between 16 and 20 meatballs. Place them on a plate or tray as you go, and try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

You’ve got options! For baked Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), spread the meatballs on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until they’re golden and cooked through. If pan-frying is more your style, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium, and cook the meatballs for 4–5 minutes per side. Air fryer fans can set their basket to 380°F (193°C) and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway—it’s quick and keeps the meatballs juicy!

Step 4: Whip Up the Tzatziki Sauce

While your meatballs cook, tackle the tzatziki. Start by grating your cucumber, then squeeze out the excess water using a paper towel or cheesecloth. In a bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and olive oil. Finish with a pinch of salt and pepper. For the ultimate flavor boost, let the tzatziki chill in the fridge for 30 minutes if you can wait that long!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange your golden meatballs on a platter and serve them with a generous swoosh of tzatziki. Let everyone dig in with warm pita, fluffy rice, or a crisp Greek salad for a meal bursting with Mediterranean sunshine.

How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatzik

Garnishes

Give your Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki an extra touch of finesse by showering them with freshly chopped parsley, dill, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese. A drizzle of good olive oil and a few lemon wedges on the side not only look beautiful but also enhance the flavors with every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish is flexible enough to harmonize with virtually any Mediterranean-inspired side. Try them tucked into warm pita, served alongside herbed rice, or nestled on a bed of fresh Greek salad. Roasted vegetables, olives, or even a simple quinoa pilaf also pair wonderfully for a complete and colorful feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to mix things up, stuff the meatballs and tzatziki into pita pockets for on-the-go lunches, or turn them into festive party skewers for gatherings. You can even arrange them on a platter with colorful veggies and dips, letting everyone customize their own Mediterranean bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve enjoyed your fill, store any leftover Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The meatballs will stay tender and tasty for up to four days, while tzatziki keeps best for about three days before the cucumber begins to lose its crunch.

Freezing

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are perfect for freezing (just the meatballs—hold off on the sauce). Once cooked and cooled, freeze meatballs on a sheet tray before transferring to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months, ready to rescue your busiest nights with a touch of Mediterranean magic.

Reheating

For juiciest results, reheat meatballs in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave gently in short bursts. If reheating from frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge first. Always add the tzatziki fresh after reheating for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works beautifully in this recipe, bringing a similar lightness and flavor. Just note that chicken tends to be a bit leaner, so beware of overcooking to keep the meatballs juicy.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

They can be! Simply swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs for a completely gluten-free version of Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best way to grate and drain cucumber for tzatziki?

Use a box grater for fine shreds, then gather the cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towel and squeeze tightly to remove as much liquid as possible. This ensures your tzatziki stays thick and creamy, not watery.

Can I make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix and shape the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake or fry. The tzatziki can also be made ahead—just give it a quick stir before serving, as it may separate slightly while chilling.

What are some variations on the classic recipe?

Get creative by adding crumbled feta to the meatball mixture, using different fresh herbs like mint or basil, or adding a pinch of chili flakes for some gentle heat. You can even swap in lamb or beef for an entirely different flavor profile while keeping that signature Greek twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring some Mediterranean sunshine to your table, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are calling your name! They’re easy enough for weeknights, tasty enough for company, and guaranteed to add a pop of fresh, vibrant flavor to any meal. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a new staple in your kitchen rotation.