Mediterranean Flavors Made Simple
Hola! And if you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls for the bright, zesty flavors of the Mediterranean, these Greek Turkey Meatballs might just tell that story.
Growing up under the Orlando sun, my kitchen has always been a mix of sunshine and spice, and I love creating meals that are as nourishing as they are flavorful. This Greek-inspired dish brings together juicy turkey meatballs seasoned with dill, oregano, and garlic, paired perfectly with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce.
It’s fresh, healthy, and bursting with vibrant Mediterranean goodness, perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Yield | 14 meatballs |
| Course | Dinner, Lunch, Meal Prep |
| Cuisine | Greek |
| Method | Pan Sear |
| Diet | Gluten Free |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Delicious: Made with lean turkey and fresh herbs for a high-protein, low-fat meal.
- Mediterranean Freshness: Each bite bursts with dill, oregano, and garlic balanced by creamy tzatziki.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores beautifully for healthy lunches throughout the week.
- Family Favorite: Light, flavorful, and kid-approved.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish.
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 14 meatballs 1x
Description
Juicy, herby, and full of Mediterranean flavor, these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a healthy and delicious meal prep favorite. Perfectly seasoned with dill, oregano, and garlic, then paired with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (93/7 lean)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 large red onion, grated or finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Tzatziki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Tomato cucumber feta salad (optional for serving)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, minced garlic, grated red onion, egg, breadcrumbs, dill, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
2. Form into 14 even meatballs. Chill for 10 minutes if the mixture feels too soft.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 7–8 minutes, turning often, until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
4. While the meatballs cook, prepare tzatziki by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and dill. Mix well and chill.
5. Serve meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce, rice, or a fresh tomato cucumber feta salad.
Notes
Use 93/7 lean turkey for juicy texture without excess grease.
To make gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour.
For a baked version, cook at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Meal prep friendly and great served cold or reheated.
Add a squeeze of lemon for freshness before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Meal Prep
- Method: Pan Sear
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 meatballs with tzatziki
- Calories: 240
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground turkey (93/7 lean recommended)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 large red onion, grated or finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Tzatziki sauce (homemade or store-bought, recipe below)
- Tomato cucumber feta salad (optional, for serving)
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip Example |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | Use 93/7 lean for juicy meatballs without being greasy. |
| Fresh Dill | Adds bright flavor; substitute parsley if unavailable. |
| Breadcrumbs | Almond flour makes it gluten-free while keeping texture light. |
| Olive Oil | Helps brown meatballs evenly and keeps them moist. |
| Red Onion | Grating instead of chopping ensures it blends smoothly into the meat. |
| Oregano | Dried oregano provides classic Greek aroma; adjust to taste. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, minced garlic, grated red onion, egg, breadcrumbs, dill, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands until just combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 14 even-sized meatballs. Avoid overworking the mixture to keep them tender.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for 7–8 minutes, turning often to brown all sides evenly. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Prepare the Tzatziki: Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and chopped dill. Mix until creamy and chill until ready to serve.
- Serve: Plate the meatballs over a bed of rice or salad. Spoon over a generous amount of tzatziki and garnish with extra dill or lemon wedges.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs.
- Chill the meat mixture for 10 minutes before shaping for easier handling.
- Avoid overcooking to keep the meatballs juicy and tender.
- Add a squeeze of lemon over the finished dish for freshness.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even browning and better crust.
- For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the mixture.
- Cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Greek Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
- Baked Version: Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes for a lighter version.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Herb Swap: Try mint or parsley instead of dill for a refreshing twist.
If you love flavorful meatball dishes, you’ve got to try my Easy Baked Mexican Meatballs. They’re baked to perfection and coated in a rich enchilada sauce, bringing bold Mexican flavor to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
Make the meatballs in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months and thaw before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Greek Turkey Meatballs with tzatziki sauce, a side of tomato cucumber feta salad, and warm pita or rice. Add lemon wedges for brightness and drizzle with olive oil for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
Pairing Ideas
- Drink: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon.
- Sides: Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or orzo pasta.
- Sauce: Extra tzatziki or hummus for dipping.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave for 1–2 minutes. For best flavor, add a small drizzle of olive oil before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying? Yes, bake them at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until they reach 165°F internally.
Can I make these meatballs dairy-free? Yes, skip the tzatziki or use dairy-free yogurt to make a vegan version of the sauce.
How can I keep the meatballs from drying out? Use lean but not extra-lean turkey, and avoid overcooking. The added egg and breadcrumbs also help retain moisture.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey? Absolutely, ground chicken works just as well and gives a similar texture.
What’s the best way to meal prep this dish? Cook the meatballs, portion them with rice and veggies, and keep tzatziki separate until serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Can I air fry the meatballs? Yes, cook them in an air fryer at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | 3–4 meatballs with tzatziki |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 480mg |
Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Author’s Note
This recipe came to life on a summer evening when I was craving the freshness of Greek food but wanted something easy and satisfying. The combination of cool tzatziki and warm, juicy meatballs hit all the right notes. It’s become one of my go-to recipes for meal prep and family dinners alike.
Final Thoughts
These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki bring all the Mediterranean magic straight to your kitchen. With lean, flavorful turkey and a cool, creamy sauce, it’s a healthy dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.
